Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 52880.00 | Show more | |
| 52880.01 | Less than 1 | 400 |
| 52880.02 | 1 but less than 2 | 300 |
| 52880.03 | 2 but less than 4 | 250 |
| 52880.04 | 4 but less than 6 | 175 |
| 52880.05 | 6 but less than 8 | 125 |
| 52880.06 | 8 but less than 10 | 100 |
| 52880.07 | 10 but less than 12 | 92.5 |
| 52880.08 | 12 but less than 15 | 85 |
| 52880.09 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 52880.10 | 22.5 but less than 30 | 65 |
| 52880.11 | 30 but less than 35 | 60 |
| 52880.12 | 35 but less than 50 | 55 |
| 52880.13 | 50 or greater | 50 |
Notes
Note 52881: NOTE-Covers or other accessories may be in same or separate packages.
Note 52882: NOTE-Also applies on Percolators or Teakettles, other than electric or gas.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Verify density for each shipment: weigh the packed boxes or crates and divide by total cubic feet to determine the class within 50–400. Include lids, racks, and handles in the weight.
- Choose packaging by material: double-wall cartons with dividers for aluminum or stainless sets; wood crates for heavy cast iron or stacked sheet pans over 150 lb to prevent crush damage.
- Nest pots and pans, stand lids vertically with corrugated separators, and bag small accessories. This raises density and keeps surfaces from scratching or chipping enamel.
- Label clearly on the BOL: “Cookware or Bakeware, metal, NOI — NMFC 52880.” Note total pieces, that it’s boxed or crated, the measured density, and “Non-hazardous.” Check companion Notes 52881/52882 for exceptions.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Density-driven pricing rewards efficient packing: nesting and right-size boxes reduce cubic feet and can lower the applicable class and total freight spend.
- Using sturdy boxes or crates tailored to metal goods cuts in-transit damage on handles, lids, and coatings, reducing claims and replacement costs.
- Accurate NMFC 52880 identification minimizes reclass fees and dispute delays, improving invoice accuracy and cash flow predictability.
- Non-hazardous designation and compliant packaging speed carrier acceptance and pickup scheduling, supporting tighter order-to-delivery cycles for retailers and foodservice suppliers.