Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 50500.00 | CONDUITS, EARTHEN, GROUP: Articles consist of Conduits, Drain Tile, Sewer Pipe, or Related Articles, clay, concrete or earthen, as described in items subject to this grouping. |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Select the exact item within the group—conduit, drain tile, or sewer pipe—and note material (clay or concrete), nominal size, and end type to match the correct NMFC subclass under 50500.
- Bundle pipes by nesting bells where possible, cap or cover ends, add edge guards, and band to wood skids; avoid overhang and use dunnage blocks between layers to prevent point loading.
- Measure the true bundle length, width, and height and weigh the palletized set; mark center of gravity and request no top-stacking. For long sections, consider flatbed instead of LTL.
- On the BOL, reference NMFC 50500, list piece and bundle counts, note brittle earthenware handling (no fork tines inside pipe), and photograph packaging before pickup for claims protection.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Reduces reclass and reweigh disputes by using the correct group number for clay and concrete pipe products.
- Cuts breakage costs through proven bundling, blocking, and edge protection practices tailored to brittle earthenware.
- Improves rate negotiations by documenting stackability, accurate dimensions, and mode fit (LTL vs. flatbed) to avoid oversize and special-handling fees.
- Speeds operations: a single group reference streamlines BOL creation across conduits, drain tile, and sewer SKUs.