Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 70050.00 | Flags, mounted or not mounted; or Flag Sets, see Note, item 70051; in packages, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 70050.01 | Less than 1 | 400 |
| 70050.02 | 1 but less than 2 | 300 |
| 70050.03 | 2 but less than 4 | 250 |
| 70050.04 | 4 but less than 6 | 175 |
| 70050.05 | 6 but less than 8 | 125 |
| 70050.06 | 8 but less than 10 | 100 |
| 70050.07 | 10 but less than 12 | 92.5 |
| 70050.08 | 12 but less than 15 | 85 |
| 70050.09 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 70050.10 | 22.5 but less than 30 | 65 |
| 70050.11 | 30 but less than 35 | 60 |
| 70050.12 | 35 but less than 50 | 55 |
| 70050.13 | 50 or greater | 50 |
Notes
Note 70051: NOTE-Flag sets consist of a flag, disassembled flagpole and mounting hardware in the same retail package.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Measure true density: weigh the packaged shipment and divide by its cubic feet to pick the correct class (e.g., 20 lb in 3 cu ft ≈ 6.7 pcf).
- Separate long poles into a capped tube and place fabric, finials, and brackets in a double-wall carton to prevent punctures and keep density predictable.
- Increase density safely for fabric-only orders by rolling or lightly compressing textiles in poly bags, but avoid hard creases for ceremonial or embroidered flags.
- Note Item 170 packaging rules on the BOL and list NMFC 70050 with piece counts (tube + carton) to reduce reclass or inspection delays.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Accurate density-driven classing cuts reclass fees and surprise accessorials, improving quote precision for retail, school, and government flag programs.
- Right-size packaging can raise pcf and lower class—moving a fabric shipment from ~3 pcf to ~8 pcf may drop the class and reduce LTL costs materially.
- Segmenting poles in tubes and hardware in cartons reduces damage claims on brackets and finials, protecting margins during seasonal spikes.
- Clear NMFC 70050 designation streamlines carrier handling for non-hazmat goods, speeding dock turns and avoiding avoidable inspection holds.