Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 77520.00 | Apples, in baskets with slatted or solid covers or in standard bushel baskets, see Note, item 77522, or in bags, boxes, crates or drums | 70 |
Notes
Note 77522: NOTE-Standard bushel baskets must comply with the following specifications: Specifications for round stave bushel basket for the shipment of fresh fruits. DIMENSION (Inside) Diameter at top 17 inches. Depth not less than 10 3/4 inches. CAPACITY 2150.42 cubic inches (one bushel). STAVES 20 staves not less than 2 3/16 inches wide and of such length that they will form sides and bottom of a basket holding 32 quarts, standard dry measure. Staves must be not less than 1/18 inch thick if made of hard maple, beech, birch, and woods of similar stiffness. Staves must be not less than 1/16 inch thick if made of gum, soft maple, spruce, soft elm, oak and woods of similar stiffness. Staves must be not less than 1/14 inch thick if made of cottonwood, basswood, poplar and woods of similar stiffness. HOOPS The top outer hoop shall be not less than 1/7 inch thick and 1 1/8 inches wide; where double hoops are used, they shall be not less than 1/12 inch thick and 1 1/8 inches wide. Inner top hoop shall be not less than 1/8 inch thick and 3/4 inch wide. Each outer wooden hoop shall be securely nailed with at least one nail or staple to each stave-nails or staples to be driven securely through hoop and clinched. COVER The cover shall be made of three (3) or more slats not less than 1/7 inch thick, attached at center to a cross slat not less than 1/8 inch thick, and at ends to hoop not less than 1/4 inch thick; also two metal hooks must be placed at right angles to handles, attached by the hook end to top rim and the other end bent over and securely driven in top slats. HANDLES Each basket shall have two (2) handles, one handle to securely hold each end of cross slat. Handles must be bent inward to make cover secure.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Match packaging to the listing: standard bushel baskets with slatted or solid covers, or ship in bags, boxes, crates, or drums to keep Class 70.
- Palletize gently packed layers; avoid overhang and heavy top-stacking on baskets. Use corner boards and slip sheets to reduce compression bruising.
- Plan temperature control when required by buyer or season; many lanes prefer 32–36°F reefers for fresh apples even though class does not change.
- Schedule early week pickups to prevent weekend dwell, and note counts per bushel or container on the BOL for clear receiving and faster claims resolution.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Single Class 70 across multiple container types simplifies rating, helping teams quote consistently during harvest peaks and throughout storage seasons.
- Accurate packaging alignment reduces reclass fees, inspections, and damage claims tied to crushed baskets or poorly vented boxes.
- Non-hazardous status broadens carrier options and supports LTL consolidation from orchards to DCs, improving truck utilization.
- Predictable classing lets retailers and packers forecast freight costs for promotions, seasonal resets, and mixed-produce shipments.