How to Determine Freight Class
HOW TO DETERMINE FREIGHT CLASS
In an effort to establish fair measures and standardize freight pricing, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) created a classification system for every type of freight.
The 18 freight classes are defined with a number between 50 and 500. Below are four things to consider when determining your shipment's freight class.
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COMMODITY / DENSITY
Some products have pre defined freight classes. Others are determined by density.
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STOWABILITY
Difficulty of transporting items due to irregular sizes will result in a higher freight class.
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HANDLING
Objects that are fragile, heavy, hazardous or require additional handling are subject to a higher freight class.
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LIABILITY
Products that are easily damaged or that can cause damage to other freight have a higher freight class and may not be covered by the freight carriers liability.