Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 90070.00 | Grave Markers, natural stone, or cast stone enclosed in a plastic shell, with metal plate attached, in boxes or crates | 70 |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Protect the stone and metal plate: wrap the plate to prevent abrasion, add corner guards, and fill voids inside the plastic shell with dense foam. Use double-wall boxes for small markers; block and brace inside crates for larger ones.
- Palletize for stability. Keep the center of gravity low, strap boxes/crates at least three times, stretch-wrap fully, and label This Side Up and Do Not Stack to avoid tip-overs and top-load damage.
- Complete the BOL clearly: “Grave Markers, natural/cast stone in plastic shell with metal plate – NMFC 90070 – Class 70.” Add Liftgate and Limited Access for cemetery, monument dealer, or residential deliveries.
- Mitigate moisture and handling risk: poly-bag or shrink the shell to prevent staining in wet trailers, request non-conveyable handling for heavy pieces, and choose carriers experienced with stone goods to reduce cross-dock impacts.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Fixed Class 70 simplifies quoting and removes density calculations, giving predictable LTL rates across carriers.
- Damage prevention through proper bracing and edge protection cuts chip/crack claims, lowering total landed cost and claim admin time.
- Correct accessorials (liftgate, limited access, non-conveyable) avoid surprise redelivery fees and schedule delays common at cemeteries.
- Crating to a standard 48x40 footprint reduces oversize charges and improves network compatibility, supporting faster, more reliable transit.