Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 21510.00 | Show more | |
| 21510.01 | Less than 1 | 400 |
| 21510.02 | 1 but less than 2 | 300 |
| 21510.03 | 2 but less than 4 | 250 |
| 21510.04 | 4 but less than 6 | 175 |
| 21510.05 | 6 but less than 8 | 125 |
| 21510.06 | 8 but less than 10 | 100 |
| 21510.07 | 10 but less than 12 | 92.5 |
| 21510.08 | 12 but less than 15 | 85 |
| 21510.09 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 21510.10 | 22.5 but less than 30 | 65 |
| 21510.11 | 30 but less than 35 | 60 |
| 21510.12 | 35 but less than 50 | 55 |
| 21510.13 | 50 or greater | 50 |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Determine density per Item 170: weigh the shipment and measure the palletized cubic feet, then choose the class from the carrier’s density table.
- Match packaging to form: use poly-lined bags or fiber drums for powders to control dust, and sturdy boxes or bales for bark pieces; seal to prevent spillage.
- Palletize tight: interlock bags, add slip sheets, and stretch-wrap; block drums with chocks or rings and strap to pallets to stop rolling.
- Describe precisely on the BOL: note “Barks, NOI,” “Slippery Elm/Soap,” or “Softwood, ground or powdered (non-medicinal),” and include calculated density.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Right-sized density prevents over-classing, cutting LTL charges and avoiding reclass fees and inspection delays.
- Optimized packaging (e.g., boxes over loose bales) improves stackability, yielding better cubic utilization and lower cost per pound.
- Non-hazardous status broadens carrier options and avoids hazmat surcharges, streamlining tendering across lanes.
- Clear “non-medicinal” designation steers freight to the correct NMFC, reducing disputes, exceptions, and claim exposure.