Freight Class Calculator
Calculate pallet density and find the estimated NMFC freight class (50 to 500) for an LTL shipment from its dimensions and weight.
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About the Freight Class Calculator
Freight class is a standard from 50 to 500 that LTL (less-than-truckload) carriers use to price shipments. The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) considers density, stowability, handling and liability. For many commodities, density (pounds per cubic foot) is the main factor, so this calculator converts your pallet size and weight into density and the matching class.
How to use it
- Enter the length, width and height of the shipment in inches, including the pallet.
- Enter the total weight in pounds and the number of pieces.
- Press Calculate freight class to see density and the estimated NMFC class.
Freight class by density
| Density (lb per cu ft) | Freight class |
|---|---|
| 50 or more | 50 |
| 35 to 50 | 55 |
| 30 to 35 | 60 |
| 22.5 to 30 | 65 |
| 15 to 22.5 | 70 |
| 13.5 to 15 | 77.5 |
| 12 to 13.5 | 85 |
| 10.5 to 12 | 92.5 |
| 9 to 10.5 | 100 |
| 8 to 9 | 110 |
| 7 to 8 | 125 |
| 6 to 7 | 150 |
| 5 to 6 | 175 |
| 4 to 5 | 200 |
| 3 to 4 | 250 |
| 2 to 3 | 300 |
| 1 to 2 | 400 |
| Less than 1 | 500 |
Density formula
Density = weight ÷ (length × width × height ÷ 1,728). A 48 × 40 × 48 in pallet weighing 500 lb is 53.3 cubic feet, which is 9.4 lb per cubic foot and class 100.
Tips to lower freight cost
- Measure the widest points, including overhang, accurately.
- Pack tightly to raise density without exceeding limits.
- Confirm the NMFC item number with your carrier to avoid reclassification fees.
- Compare LTL quotes across several carriers.
Frequently asked questions
What is freight class?
A classification from 50 to 500 used by LTL carriers to price shipments, based on density, stowability, handling and liability.
How do I calculate freight class?
Find the density in pounds per cubic foot by dividing weight by cubic feet, then match the density to the freight class table.
Is a higher freight class more expensive?
Generally yes. Lower-density, bulkier freight has a higher class and costs more to ship.
What is the NMFC?
The National Motor Freight Classification, the standard that assigns classes to commodities.
Why was my freight reclassified?
Carriers may reweigh and remeasure shipments. Wrong dimensions or an incorrect NMFC code can lead to reclassification fees.
Last reviewed: November 2026. A density-based estimate. The carrier and the NMFC code on your commodity decide the final class.