Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 197230.00 | Wheels or Wheel Blanks, NOI, see Note, item 197231: | |
| 197230.01 | In boxes or crates, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 197230.02 | Less than 8 | 150 |
| 197230.03 | 8 but less than 12 | 100 |
| 197230.04 | 12 or greater | 70 |
| 197230.05 | In packages other than boxes or crates, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 197230.06 | Less than 8 | 175 |
| 197230.07 | 8 but less than 12 | 110 |
| 197230.08 | 12 or greater | 77.5 |
Notes
Note 197231: NOTE-Applies on wheels or wheel blanks whether or not requiring or suitable for use with tires, and whether or not with tires mounted.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Verify density: weigh the packaged wheels or blanks, measure the outer carton or crate volume, and apply the result to the NMFC 197230 density breaks to set the class within 70–175.
- Match packaging to material and finish: steel blanks ride well in blocked, banded crates; aluminum or coated rims should be boxed with foam or sleeves to prevent rim-to-rim contact and scuffing.
- Stabilize for transit: keep freight within the pallet footprint, band through center bores when possible, add edge guards, and prevent rolling by nesting vertically with dividers or wheel chocks.
- Document clearly: list the commodity as “Wheels or Wheel Blanks, NOI — NMFC 197230,” include piece count, material (steel, aluminum, composite), packaging type (box or crate), and the calculated density on the BOL.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Accurate density entry can unlock lower classes for compact, heavy steel blanks, trimming LTL charges without changing carriers.
- Purpose-built boxing or crating reduces dents and finish damage, cutting claims and minimizing reclass fees tied to inadequate packaging.
- Clear NMFC mapping (197230) streamlines rating and prevents costly rebills from misidentified “auto parts” or generic descriptions.
- Non-hazardous commodity status opens more carrier options and avoids hazmat surcharges, improving rate shopping and transit flexibility.