Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 178160.00 | Stairs or Stairways; Ramps or Gangways; Chutes or Slides; Platforms or Stands; aircraft or marine, portable, see Note, item 178161, in packages, see Note, item 178162: | |
| 178160.01 | Greatest dimension exceeding 96 inches, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 178160.02 | Less than 4 | 500 |
| 178160.03 | 4 but less than 6 | 250 |
| 178160.04 | 6 but less than 8 | 200 |
| 178160.05 | 8 or greater | 125 |
| 178160.06 | Greatest dimension not exceeding 96 inches, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 178160.07 | Less than 4 | 400 |
| 178160.08 | 4 but less than 6 | 200 |
| 178160.09 | 6 but less than 8 | 175 |
| 178160.10 | 8 or greater | 110 |
Notes
Note 178161: NOTE-Applies on articles named such as used for the loading, unloading or service of aircraft or marine vessels, or for use in other marine applications.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Measure density correctly: include the full footprint and height of handrails, wheels, or outriggers when crated. Example: 120 x 36 x 24 in at 200 lb ≈ 3.3 pcf (higher class).
- Package to reduce cube and stabilize: collapse telescoping sections, remove detachable rails, block casters, then band to a skid or fully crate; keep all parts on one handling unit.
- Protect contact points: add edge guards on tread plates and rail ends, foam-wrap nonslip surfaces, and mark center-of-gravity and forklift entry sides for safe handling.
- Bill of lading tips: describe the item plainly (e.g., “portable aircraft stair, in packages”), reference NMFC 178160, list dimensions and total weight per handling unit, and note “Do Not Stack” if needed.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Density-based rating offers cost control: smarter packaging that lowers cube can shift the shipment to a lower class and reduce LTL charges.
- Non-hazardous classification widens carrier options and avoids hazmat fees, improving transit flexibility for airports, shipyards, and marinas.
- Accurate specs (weight, dims, density) cut reclass and inspection charges, protecting margins on oversized yet lightweight aluminum assemblies.
- Purpose-built crating and securement reduce damage claims on high-value maintenance stands and gangways, lowering lifecycle logistics costs.