Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 29900.00 | Boxes, Chests or Cabinets, tool, ammunition or fishing tackle, NOI, in boxes or crates, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 29900.01 | Less than 1 | 400 |
| 29900.02 | 1 but less than 2 | 300 |
| 29900.03 | 2 but less than 4 | 250 |
| 29900.04 | 4 but less than 6 | 175 |
| 29900.05 | 6 but less than 8 | 125 |
| 29900.06 | 8 but less than 10 | 100 |
| 29900.07 | 10 but less than 12 | 92.5 |
| 29900.08 | 12 but less than 15 | 85 |
| 29900.09 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 29900.10 | 22.5 but less than 30 | 65 |
| 29900.11 | 30 but less than 35 | 60 |
| 29900.12 | 35 but less than 50 | 55 |
| 29900.13 | 50 or greater | 50 |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Confirm the items are empty and clean—no ammunition, solvents, or tackle contents—and note “empty cabinet, NOI” on the BOL.
- Choose packaging that fits the build: double-wall boxes for lighter aluminum or plastic chests, and wood crates for heavy steel tool cabinets with drawers.
- Calculate density to pick the correct class: density (pcf) = weight (lb) ÷ cubic feet; cubic feet = (L×W×H in inches) ÷ 1728. Example: 48×24×24 in, 200 lb ≈ 16 cu ft → 12.5 pcf.
- Protect hardware and corners—remove or secure drawers, pad hinges and locks, and block inside the crate to prevent shifting during LTL handling.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Right-size the box or crate to control cube and reduce class, lowering LTL freight spend on bulky cabinets and chests.
- Accurate density-based classing under Item 170 prevents reclasses and surprise invoices, keeping margins predictable.
- Crating heavy tool cabinets cuts damage claims on latches, casters, and drawer slides, saving both repair costs and cycle time.
- Clear “empty—no ammunition” documentation avoids carrier refusals and delays, speeding pickups and improving OTD performance.