1. What is Freight Class?

Freight class is a standardized classification system used in the transportation industry to categorize different types of cargo. It helps determine shipping rates based on the density, stowability, handling, and liability of goods.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( \text{density\_per\_pallet} \) — Density in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³)
• \( \text{class} \) — The calculated freight class (50-500)

Explanation: The calculator determines the appropriate freight class based on the density of your shipment. Higher density items generally receive lower (better) freight classes.

3. Importance of Freight Class

Details: Accurate freight class determination is crucial for getting correct shipping rates and avoiding reclassification fees. It affects both LTL (Less Than Truckload) and FTL (Full Truckload) shipments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the density of your shipment in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³). The calculator will determine the appropriate freight class based on standard NMFC classifications.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the best freight class?
A: Class 50 is the most favorable (lowest cost) while Class 500 is the least favorable (highest cost). Lower classes indicate higher density shipments.

Q2: How do I calculate density?
A: Density = Weight (lbs) / Volume (ft³). Measure the total weight and dimensions (length × width × height) of your pallet.

Q3: What if my shipment has multiple pallets with different densities?
A: Calculate the average density across all pallets or classify each pallet separately if they contain different commodities.

Q4: Are there other factors besides density?
A: Yes, stowability, handling, and liability also affect freight class, but density is the primary factor for most shipments.

Q5: What happens if I use the wrong freight class?
A: Carriers may reweigh and remeasure your shipment, potentially charging reclassification fees and back charges for any difference.