What is Freight Class

Freight class is a standardized classification system used in Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping that categorizes commodities based on characteristics such as density, value, stowability, handling, and liability to determine shipping rates and transport requirements.

Real-World Example

Heavy steel rods may be classified under Class 50 due to their high density and ease of stacking, resulting in lower shipping rates. Conversely, lightweight but bulky items like ping-pong balls could be assigned to Class 400 or higher, increasing shipping costs due to inefficient space usage.

Advantages and Challenges

Advantages

Creates a universal standard for pricing LTL shipments across carriers.
Helps carriers and shippers predict costs more accurately based on commodity type.
Improves load planning, space optimization, and risk management during transport.
Promotes transparency and consistency in shipping contracts and carrier tariffs.

Challenges

Misclassification can lead to costly disputes, reclass charges, and shipping delays.
Complexity in determining correct freight class, especially for mixed or specialty commodities.
Freight class revisions or NMFC updates can unexpectedly change rates.
Higher-class items can be disproportionately expensive due to low density or handling difficulty.

Related Terms

What We Do

MET CO is a logistics provider built for speed, precision, and growth. We specialize in cross-docking, short-term warehousing, and wholesale distribution, with a strong track record in the grocery and automotive sectors.

As our clients scale, so do we—expanding into eCommerce fulfillment, value-added services, and just-in-time delivery. Our operations are designed to handle both bulk and high-frequency inventory with minimal friction and full visibility.

Whether you need rapid turnarounds, zone-based storage, or reliable outbound execution, MET CO acts as an extension of your supply chain—lean, fast, and aligned to your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you determine the correct freight class?

Freight class is determined based on four factors: density, stowability, handling, and liability. You can calculate density manually or use carrier-provided tools, but referencing the NMFC directory is often necessary for accuracy.

What happens if I ship under the wrong freight class?

Carriers may inspect and reclassify your shipment, charging additional fees known as reclass charges, which can significantly increase your total shipping cost.

Is freight class important for all types of shipping?

Freight class is mainly used for LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipments. It is not typically used for Full Truckload (FTL), parcel shipping, or containerized ocean freight.

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