NMFC 38470 – Prefab Buildings & Panels | Class by Density

Note 38472: NOTE-Applies on accompanying hardware, nails, caulking compound, paint or other materials necessary for constructing or finishing the building. Will also apply on air conditioning, heating, plumbing or electrical equipment, cabinets, doors, windows, insulating material or other fittings or supplies which will form a part of the house or building which they accompany.

To find the correct freight class for your shipment:

1. Calculate density for each package: measure exterior length × width × height, convert to cubic feet, and divide total packaged weight to get pcf for rating.
2. Meet the “in packages” requirement: crate or bundle panels on skids, add edge protectors, dunnage, and cross‑straps; label center of gravity on long sections.
3. Disclose dimensions and piece count up front. Call out the longest length (e.g., 22 ft roof panel) to avoid overlength surprises and plan dock handling.
4. Reference NMFC notes 38472/38473 and follow Item 170. Keep loose hardware bagged inside the package and block/brac e bundles to prevent flex and scuffing.

Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.

• Density-based classes reward smarter packing: nest panels, minimize void space, and consolidate components to lower class and reduce LTL rates.
• Packaging compliance speeds cross-docks and field delivery, cutting handling time and damage risk for modular builders and jobsite shipments.
• Accurate density and counts prevent carrier reweigh/reclass charges, protecting margins on large prefab or panelized projects.
• Single item coverage for metal or wood frames simplifies rating and admin across mixed-material sections in the same shipment.