Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 98130.00 | Hat Bodies, unfinished: | |
| 98130.01 | Wool or fur felt, nested solid, in wrapped bundles | 100 |
| 98130.02 | NOI, nested solid or KD flat, in bags, boxes, wrapped bales or wrapped bundles | 125 |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Confirm the correct NMFC 98130 subclass before booking; unfinished hat bodies often separate by material (e.g., felt vs. straw) and both rate within Class 100–125 with no density needed.
- Pack in rigid corrugated boxes with light nesting (crown-to-crown) and brim guards or dividers to prevent creasing. Use poly bags to keep lint and moisture off raw bodies.
- Keep cartons light and crush-resistant: choose 32–44 ECT boxes, cap the weight to what your carrier recommends for delicate apparel forms, and avoid overpacking that deforms brims.
- Palletize with flat tops and a protective sheet; lightly wrap to avoid compression. Label as “Unfinished Hat Bodies – NMFC 98130” to prevent reclass as finished hats.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Predictable quoting: a fixed Class 100–125 eliminates density calculations and reduces reclass fees for milliners and apparel manufacturers.
- Damage control equals cost control: proper nesting and brim protection cut claims, reships, and production delays for seasonal collections.
- Packaging in standard boxes streamlines LTL handling, improving loading efficiency and reducing accessorial risks tied to irregular freight.
- Non-hazardous status simplifies carrier selection and routing, helping you secure faster pickups and competitive rates.