Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 50540.00 | Chimney Flues or Pipe, or Chimney or Flue Linings, clay: |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Describe the commodity precisely on the BOL: “clay chimney flues/pipe or flue linings, earthenware, NMFC 50540,” and mark as non-hazardous.
- Palletize or crate vertically with separators; pad edges and ends with foam or corrugated, add corner boards, then band and stretch-wrap. Use “Do Not Top Load” labels.
- Load for stability: keep center of gravity low, avoid overhang, and use blocking/bracing for longer pipe sections. Fork openings should be accessible on the long side.
- Document piece count and dimensions, photograph packaging before pickup, and request limited handling or fragile service notes for masonry job-site deliveries.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Damage reduction from proper crating/palletizing cuts OS&D claims and replacement costs on brittle fired-clay parts.
- Clear commodity naming under NMFC 50540 helps avoid reclass and reweigh disputes when the class is not specified.
- Non-hazardous status streamlines paperwork and speeds dock processing, improving transit reliability.
- Forklift-ready pallets and accurate dims support better LTL pricing and fewer accessorials during pickup and delivery.