Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 55470.00 | Cheese, including Cheese Food, NOI, see Note, item 55471, in boxes, drums or pails, in metal or wooden containers in crates, see Note, item 55472, or in Packages 1400, 1500, 2202, 2325 or 2414 | 77.5 |
Notes
Note 55471: NOTE-Does not apply on cheese crisps or other dried cheese snacks. For applicable provisions, see item 73260.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Confirm your product fits NOI and the notes (items 55471 and 55472), then choose approved packaging: boxes, drums or pails, or metal/wood containers in crates; use Packages 1400, 1500, 2202, 2325, or 2414 where applicable.
- Print the BOL with: “NMFC 55470, Cheese or Cheese Food NOI, Class 77.5,” plus package type and count (e.g., 40-lb blocks in boxes on 2 pallets, or 4 metal drums crated).
- Maintain cold chain without changing class: book reefer LTL or add gel packs and thermal liners; apply “Keep Refrigerated” and food-grade labels for carrier handling.
- Palletize to prevent crush and dents: 48x40 GMA pallets, corner boards, top caps, and strapping for drums/pails; crate heavy cans to avoid impact damage.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Predictable rating with fixed Class 77.5, simplifying quotes and landed cost planning for dairies, processors, and food distributors.
- Approved packaging variety (boxes, drums/pails, crated containers) lowers reclass risk and speeds carrier audits when you reference the correct package codes.
- Non-hazmat status and clear NMFC text reduce accessorial disputes and administrative time, improving tender-to-pickup speed.
- Operational flexibility to optimize cube and stack height by choosing boxes or crated bulk, often improving LTL rates per pound.