Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 38645.00 | Bulkheads or Units, commercial washing machine service, see Note, item 38646, in crates, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 38645.01 | Less than 1 | 400 |
| 38645.02 | 1 but less than 2 | 300 |
| 38645.03 | 2 but less than 4 | 250 |
| 38645.04 | 4 but less than 6 | 175 |
| 38645.05 | 6 but less than 8 | 125 |
| 38645.06 | 8 but less than 10 | 100 |
| 38645.07 | 10 but less than 12 | 92.5 |
| 38645.08 | 12 but less than 15 | 85 |
| 38645.09 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 38645.10 | 22.5 but less than 30 | 65 |
| 38645.11 | 30 but less than 35 | 60 |
| 38645.12 | 35 but less than 50 | 55 |
| 38645.13 | 50 or greater | 50 |
Notes
Note 38646: NOTE-Applies on bulkheads or units consisting of steel frames containing water supply piping and electrical wiring, switches and receptacles, with or without pumps or drain piping, utilized in the installation of commercial self-service washing machines.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Calculate density from the fully crated dimensions and weight; note pcf on the BOL to select the correct class within 50–400 per Item 170.
- Build rigid wood crates with internal blocking to protect flanges, ports, and faceplates on the bulkhead/unit; add moisture barrier wrap for laundry environments.
- Reference Note, item 38646 to confirm the part qualifies as a service bulkhead/unit, not a complete washer, and describe it clearly on paperwork.
- Mark lift points and center of gravity; provide fork-clearance runners and avoid overhang to reduce handling damage and reclass fees.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Density-based rating rewards compact, tightly packed crates, often lowering class and reducing LTL spend for service parts.
- Accurate pcf and correct NMFC 38645 usage minimize carrier inspections, reclassifications, and unexpected billing adjustments.
- Crating that limits vibration and edge impact cuts claim risk on precision assemblies, protecting turnaround for laundromat and hospitality operations.
- Clear classification accelerates quoting and routing, helping OEMs and service depots keep critical washer components moving without delays.