Freight Class Calculator (US LTL)
For density-rated US LTL freight, density = weight (lb) ÷ volume (cubic feet), where cubic feet = (L × W × H in inches) ÷ 1728. A 48 × 40 × 48 in pallet at 500 lb is 53.33 ft³ → 9.375 lb/ft³ → class 100. Denser freight gets a lower class in the standard table, which runs from class 50 at 50 lb/ft³ and over to class 400 below 1 lb/ft³. The NMFC item can assign a different class.
Estimate an LTL shipment's class using the current standard 13-band density table, then confirm the applicable NMFC item.
Enter positive dimensions and weight, and a whole quantity to calculate.
How freight class is worked out
For commodities using the standard full-density table, US LTL freight class follows density: weight ÷ volume in cubic feet. Higher density means a lower (cheaper) class. We compute the density and map it to NMFTA's current standard 13-band scale.
This is a density-based estimate. The official NMFC class can also depend on the commodity, stowability, handling and liability, and some items carry a fixed class regardless of density. Use it to sanity-check a quote, then confirm the NMFC item with your carrier.
Need the exact boundary? Browse the complete freight class guide from class 50 to 500.
Density-to-class table
| Density (lb/ft³) | Freight class |
|---|---|
| 50 and over | 50 |
| 35 to under 50 | 55 |
| 30 to under 35 | 60 |
| 22.5 to under 30 | 65 |
| 15 to under 22.5 | 70 |
| 12 to under 15 | 85 |
| 10 to under 12 | 92.5 |
| 8 to under 10 | 100 |
| 6 to under 8 | 125 |
| 4 to under 6 | 175 |
| 2 to under 4 | 250 |
| 1 to under 2 | 300 |
| under 1 | 400 |
By carrier
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Frequently asked questions
How is freight class calculated?
For density-rated commodities, divide the shipment weight (lb) by its volume (cubic feet) to get density in lb/ft³, then read the class from the NMFC density scale. Denser freight gets a lower class number and a lower rate.
What is the lowest (cheapest) freight class?
Class 50 is the lowest class and applies at 50 lb/ft³ or more in the standard full-density table. That table ends at class 400 below 1 lb/ft³. Class 500 remains valid for applicable commodity-specific NMFC items.
Is density the only thing that sets freight class?
No. The NMFC item may use the standard density table, different density provisions or a fixed class based on handling, stowability and liability. This calculator gives a planning estimate using the standard 13-band table; confirm the applicable item and carrier tariff.