What are freight classes?
Freight classes are standardized categories used in the shipping industry to classify and price different types of cargo. These classes, ranging from 50 to 500, are determined by several factors and help carriers provide consistent pricing across various shipments. Understanding what freight classes are and how they work can help both shippers and carriers provide accurate pricing and efficient transportation of commodities and goods.
Developed by National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA)
Freight classes are a system developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) to categorize shipments based on their transportability. There are 18 classes, ranging from Class 50 (lowest) to Class 500 (highest), with each class representing different characteristics of the freight.
Factors determining NMFTA freight classes
List of NMFTA freight classes with examples
The chief purpose of this classification system helps standardize shipping rates based on the factors listed above. Generally, lower class numbers indicate denser, easier-to-handle items, while higher class numbers are assigned to lighter, bulkier, or more fragile items that require special care during transport.
Here is a comprehensive list of the NMFTA freight classes with descriptions and examples for each:
Freight Class 50 (lowest shipping cost)
DESCRIPTION | Very dense, durable items that are easy to handle and stack. Generally fits on a standard 4 x 4 pallet. |
WEIGHT RANGE | 50+ lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Steel plates, brick pallets, bags of cement |
Freight Class 55
DESCRIPTION | Dense, sturdy items that are relatively easy to handle. |
WEIGHT RANGE | 35-50 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Hardwood flooring, print magazines, paint cans |
Freight Class 60
DESCRIPTION | Durable, moderately dense materials, stackable with some care |
WEIGHT RANGE | 30-35 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Machine parts, steel pipes or cables, canned goods |
Freight Class 65
DESCRIPTION | Heavier boxed items and beverages requiring some handling care |
WEIGHT RANGE | 22.5-30 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Books in boxes, bottled beverages in cases, automotive parts |
Freight Class 70
DESCRIPTION | Bulkier items that may require more careful handling |
WEIGHT RANGE | 15-22.5 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Heavy machinery, food items, unassembled furniture |
Freight Class 77.5
DESCRIPTION | Less dense items that may require specialized handling |
WEIGHT RANGE | 13.5-15 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Tires, bathroom fixtures, garments |
Freight Class 85
DESCRIPTION | Items that are more fragile or require careful stacking |
WEIGHT RANGE | 12-13.5 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Cast iron stoves, motorcycle engines, doors |
Freight Class 92.5
DESCRIPTION | Bulky items that may be somewhat fragile |
WEIGHT RANGE | 10.5-12 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Computers, gas-powered generators, refrigerators |
Freight Class 100
DESCRIPTION | Items that take up more space relative to their weight |
WEIGHT RANGE | 9-10.5 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Canvas materials, boat covers, empty wine cases |
Freight Class 110
DESCRIPTION | Less dense items that may require careful handling |
WEIGHT RANGE | 8-9 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Framed artwork, cabinets, table saws |
Freight Class 125
DESCRIPTION | Fairly light items that may be somewhat fragile |
WEIGHT RANGE | 7-8 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Small household appliances, vending machines, exhibit booths |
Freight Class 150
DESCRIPTION | Light, bulky items that take up significant space |
WEIGHT RANGE | 6-7 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Sheet metal auto body parts, bookcases, workstations |
Freight Class 175
DESCRIPTION | Very light, bulky items that are difficult to stack |
WEIGHT RANGE | 5-6 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Sofas & stuffed furniture, clothing |
Freight Class 200
DESCRIPTION | Extremely light items relative to their size |
WEIGHT RANGE | 4-5 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Packaged foam mattresses, aircraft parts, aluminum tables |
Freight Class 250
DESCRIPTION | Very low-density items that take up a lot of space |
WEIGHT RANGE | 3-4 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Bamboo furniture, mattress & box spring sets, plasma TV sets |
Freight Class 300
DESCRIPTION | Exceptionally light and bulky items |
WEIGHT RANGE | 2-3 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Assembled tables & chairs, model boats, kayaks or canoes (boxed) |
Freight Class 400
DESCRIPTION | Extremely low-density items that are very difficult to transport efficiently |
WEIGHT RANGE | 1-2 lbs per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Deer antlers, ping pong balls, light fixtures |
Freight Class 500 (Highest shipping cost)
DESCRIPTION | The lightest and most space-consuming items, often high-value or requiring special handling |
WEIGHT RANGE | Less than 1 lb per cubic foot |
EXAMPLES | Feathers, valuable furs, gold dust |
Use freight classes in your bids to improve pricing and increase profits
Carriers can use freight classes strategically in their bids to increase profits. Consider these 6 common ways freight classes can be incorporated into carrier freight bids, with some simple examples:
1. Tiered pricing structure based on freight classes
Implementing a tiered pricing structure based on freight classes can be a simple way to offer competitive rates while accounting for the varying costs associated with different types of shipments. This approach allows for more nuanced pricing that reflects the handling requirements, density, and liability of different freight classes.
Here is an example of a tiered pricing bid that allows carriers to:
- Offer competitive rates for dense, easily handled freight
- Adjust pricing for items requiring more care or space
- Account for increased liability and handling costs of high-class freight, and
- Incentivize shippers to optimize packaging and density where possible
Simple example of a tiered pricing structure for LTL freight classes
Tier 1: Low-Class Freight (Classes 50-70)
For dense, easy-to-handle freight with low liability:
- Rate: $0.30 per mile
- Minimum charge: $75
- Discount: 10% off published rates
Examples: Steel, brick, cement, machinery parts
Tier 2: Mid-Class Freight (Classes 85-125)
For average density freight with moderate handling requirements:
- Rate: $0.40 per mile
- Minimum charge: $100
- Discount: 5% off published rates
Examples: Furniture, auto parts, boxed appliances
Tier 3: High-Class Freight (Classes 150-250)
For less dense, more fragile freight with higher liability:
- Rate: $0.55 per mile
- Minimum charge: $150
- No discount on published rates
Examples: Electronics, clothing, mattresses
Tier 4: Special Handling Freight (Classes 300-500)
For low-density, high-liability, or difficult-to-handle items:
- Rate: $0.75 per mile
- Minimum charge: $200
- Surcharge: 15% added to published rates
Examples: Fragile items, high-value goods, oversized shipment
2. Volume discounts
Carriers can provide incentives in bids for shippers who consistently send lower-class freight, encouraging more business in easier-to-handle categories. Here is a simple example of a volume-based discount structure a carrier could use to incentivize higher shipping volumes while accounting for the different handling requirements and risks associated with various freight classes. It offers competitive pricing for high-volume shippers while maintaining profitability on lower-volume shipments.
Simple example of a volume-based discount structure
The following discount structure applies to shipments within the continental United States using standard 53' dry van trailers. Discounts are applied to our base rates and increase with higher monthly shipment volumes.
Freight Classes 50-85
MONTHLY VOLUME (lbs) | DISCOUNT |
0 - 9,999 | 5% |
10,000 - 49,999 | 10% |
50,000 - 99,999 | 15% |
100,000 and over | 20% |
Freight Classes 92.5-125
MONTHLY VOLUME (lbs) | DISCOUNT |
0 - 9,999 | 3% |
10,000 - 49,999 | 8% |
50,000 - 99,999 | 12% |
100,000 and over | 18% |
Freight Classes 150-250
MONTHLY VOLUME (lbs) | DISCOUNT |
0 - 9,999 | 2% |
10,000 - 49,999 | 5% |
50,000 - 99,999 | 8% |
100,000 and over | 12% |
Additional Terms
- Discounts apply to base rates only and do not include fuel surcharges or accessorial fees.
- Volumes are calculated based on the total delivered weight of all shipments within freight classes.
- Discounts are applied on a per-shipment basis according to the previous month's total volume.
- CARRIER reserves the right to adjust the discount structure with 30 days' notice.
3. Specialized services
Carriers should consider developing expertise in handling specific freight types, which can lead to contract bids that can include higher rates due to specialized equipment or training.
Here is an example of how a freight carrier could offer specialized services for different freight classes in a bid for a freight contract:
Simple example of a pricing structure for Specialized Services
Specialized services for different freight classes are available
Our company recognizes that different freight classes require tailored handling and transportation solutions. We offer the following specialized services to ensure optimal care and delivery for various freight types:
Freight Classes 50-85
For items like appliances, machinery parts, and hardware:
- Reinforced palletizing and strapping
- Air-ride suspension trailers to minimize vibration
- GPS tracking for real-time shipment updates
Freight Classes 92.5-125
For electronics, glassware, and delicate equipment:
- Custom crating and padding services
- Climate-controlled transportation
- Specialized handling teams trained in fragile cargo protocols
Freight Classes 150-250
For pharmaceuticals, fine art, and precision instruments:
- Temperature-mapped, sealed & locked refrigerated trailer units
- 24/7 security monitoring
- White glove delivery service
Freight Classes 300-400
For lightweight but bulky items like clothing or foam products:
- Space optimization techniques
- Stackable container systems
- Volumetric pricing options
Additional Services
- Liftgate service: $75 per occurrence
- Inside delivery: $50 per occurrence
- Residential delivery: $35 per occurrence
- Limited access fee: $75 per occurrence
By offering these tailored solutions, we ensure that each freight class receives the appropriate care and handling you require throughout the transportation process. Our specialized services are designed to maximize efficiency, minimize risk, and deliver superior results for shippers across all freight classes. Additional, customized services to meet your needs are always available upon request.
4. Density-based pricing
Carriers may also consider implementing a sliding scale based on density within each freight class in their contract bids, as a way to reward shippers who optimize their packaging for better space utilization.
Simple example of a density-based pricing structure in a contract bid
Density-based freight pricing model
As a carrier that utilizes density-based pricing, we are pleased to offer competitive rates tailored to your specific shipment characteristics and designed to include the following benefits:
- More accurate pricing based on actual space utilization
- Incentives for efficient packaging and loading
- Simplified rate calculations
- Greater pricing transparency
Below are our base rates per cubic foot, which will be adjusted based on the density of each shipment at the point of origin:
DENSITY (lbs/ft³) | RATE ($/ft³) |
>2 | $12.50 |
2-4 | $10.00 |
4-6 | $8.50 |
6-8 | $7.00 |
8-10 | $6.00 |
10-12 | $5.25 |
12 and over | $4.75 |
We encourage shippers to pack pallets, crates, and individual packages to their maximum density. This approach reduces the use of excess packing materials, leading to less waste, more tightly secured goods, and pallets that are easier and safer to handle
5. Include seasonal pricing adjustments for different freight classes
Another effective bidding strategy for carriers that is based on freight classes can be to adjust rates for certain classes as seasonal demand fluctuates. This can help carriers maximize profits during peak periods while still maintaining optimal freight volumes and service levels during slower seasons.
Here is an example of how a freight carrier could offer seasonally-adjusted pricing for different freight classes in a contract bid:
Simple example of a seasonally-based pricing structure in a contract bid
Seasonally-adjusted pricing proposal
Our company recognizes the seasonal fluctuations in freight demand and aims to provide competitive, fair pricing year-round. We propose the following seasonally-adjusted pricing structure for different freight classes:
We establish base rates for each freight class, which serve as the foundation for our pricing model:
FREIGHT CLASS | BASE RATE (per mile) |
50 | $2.50 |
70 | $3.00 |
100 | $3.50 |
250 | $4.50 |
Seasonal-adjustment factors
To account for seasonal variations in demand and operating costs, we apply the following adjustment factors to our base rates:
SEASON | ADJUSTMENT FACTOR |
Winter (Dec - Feb) | 0.95 |
Spring (Mar - May) | 1.00 |
Summer (June - Aug) | 1.10 |
Fall (Sept - Nov) | 1.05 |
Pricing formula
The final price per mile for each freight class in a given season shall be calculated as:
Adjusted Price = Base Rate * Seasonal Adjustment Factor
Here is an example pricing table showing how our seasonally-adjusted pricing would look for Class 100 freight throughout the year:
SEASON | BASE RATE | ADJUSTMENT FACTOR | ADJUSTED PRICE |
Winter (Dec - Feb) | $3.50 | 0.95 | $3.33 |
Spring (Mar - May) | $3.50 | 1.00 | $3.50 |
Summer (June - Aug) | $3.50 | 1.10 | $3.85 |
Fall (Sept - Nov) | $3.50 | 1.05 | $3.68 |
Objectives of our seasonally-adjusted pricing
Cost Stability: Our pricing model helps smooth out seasonal cost fluctuations for your business, allowing for more accurate budgeting and forecasting
Efficiency: Seasonal adjustments allow us to optimize our operations, ensuring consistent service quality across all seasons.
Fairness: By adjusting prices based on seasonal demand, we ensure that you're not overpaying during low-demand periods.
Transparency. Our clear formula and pricing adjustment factors provide full visibility and clarity on how our pricing adapts throughout the year as costs fluctuate.
Our aim is to provide a competitive, efficient freight solution that adapts to natural fluctuations in the freight transportation industry and guarantees the highest possible level of service on every shipment.
6. Offer bundled services packages
Try to offer package deals that combine transportation of different freight classes, less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload (TL or FTL), providing value to shippers while ensuring profitable loads and sufficient volume throughout the term of the freight contract.
Here is an example of how a freight carrier could offer bundled-services pricing for different freight classes in a contract bid:
Simple example of a bundled-services pricing structure in a contract bid
Bundled-services pricing proposal
To provide additional value and cost savings, we offer the following bundled pricing options:
Bundle A: Mixed LTL Classes
- Combine shipments of Class 50-92.5 and receive a 10% discount on total freight charges
- Minimum of 3 different classes per shipment required
Bundle B: LTL + FTL Combination
- Book both LTL and FTL shipments in the same week and receive:
- 5% discount on LTL rates
- $0.10 per mile discount on FTL rates
Bundle C: High-Volume Shipper
Commit to a minimum of 10,000 lbs/week across any combination of freight classes and receive:
- 15% discount on all LTL shipments
- $0.15 per mile discount on all FTL shipments
Bundle D: Specialized Freight Combination
Combine Class 150-250 LTL shipments with flatbed FTL service and receive:
- 7% discount on Class 150-250 LTL rates
- $0.12 per mile discount on flatbed FTL rates
Value-Added Services
The following services can be added to any bundle at discounted rates:
- Liftgate Service: $50 per shipment (10% off standard rate)
- Inside Delivery: $35 per shipment (15% off standard rate)
- Residential Delivery: $40 per shipment (12% off standard rate)
This bundled-services pricing approach allows for flexibility in combining different freight classes and service types, providing cost-effective solutions tailored to your specific shipping needs. By leveraging these bundles, you can optimize your freight spend while maintaining high-quality service across various shipment types
Conclusion: Use freight classes to improve service & win more contracts
By incorporating these strategies, carriers can leverage the freight class system to not only provide more accurate and fair pricing, but also to optimize their operations and increase overall profitability. This approach allows for a more nuanced and competitive bidding process that benefits both carriers and shippers in the long run.
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