Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 20380.00 | Bacteria, seed or soil inoculating, in preservative or soil, in bags, boxes or drums | 60 |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Verify product form (in preservative or soil) and use sturdy boxes or lined drums; overbox any bagged units to align with NMFC 20380 packaging expectations.
- Maintain temperature per label—many strains dislike heat or freezing; add insulation or gel packs in summer and mark cartons “Do Not Freeze.”
- Prevent leaks and moisture swings: double-bag inner pouches, use absorbent pads, and stretch-wrap palletized boxes with upright orientation arrows.
- Keep away from oxidizers, bleach, and sanitizer freight; note on BOL: “Seed/Soil Inoculant Bacteria, NMFC 20380, Class 60 — Non-Hazardous” for faster carrier processing.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Fixed Class 60 eliminates density calculations, giving predictable LTL quotes from trial kits to bulk replenishment.
- Non-hazardous status avoids hazmat surcharges and streamlines pickup-to-delivery during peak planting windows.
- Accurate NMFC reference reduces reclass fees and claim disputes, protecting margin on recurring ag-biological shipments.
- Packaging flexibility (bags in boxes or drums) supports scaling volumes without changing class, simplifying procurement and logistics planning.