NMFC 47990 - Clay Group Articles | Class N/A

To find the correct freight class for your shipment:

1. Pinpoint the exact NMFC item within the Clay Group before quoting, such as kaolin in bags versus bentonite in bulk, since group headers don’t provide a final class.
2. Describe packaging clearly on the BOL—bags, supersacks, drums, or bulk—and note moisture content for concentrates to avoid reweighs and reclassifications.
3. Protect against dusting and contamination with liners and stretch-wrap; use sturdy pallets and cover tops when shipping fine clays or dry earths.
4. Reference the group and the specific item on paperwork (e.g., “NMFC 47990 Group—see item ####”), and retain SDS if applicable for ores, even though this group is non-hazardous.

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

• Reduces reclass charges by steering staff to the correct item-level NMFC under the Clay Group rather than using a vague description.
• Improves quote accuracy by aligning packaging and moisture notes with carrier rules commonly applied to minerals and powders.
• Cuts claims risk by emphasizing dust control, pallet integrity, and load securement practices suited to fine clays and dense concentrates.
• Speeds onboarding for new lanes involving industrial clays, earths, and ores by consolidating guidance around one group reference (NMFC 47990).