Definition
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is the standard that groups every kind of freight into a numbered item and assigns it a freight class for LTL pricing. It is published by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association. An NMFC code, or item number, identifies the commodity; the class attached to it sets the price tier.
- 01Freight descriptionwhat the commodity is
- 02NMFC item numberidentifies the commodityItem missing or wronginvites a check and reclass
- 03Freight classattached to the item
- 04LTL price tierthe class sets it
Why it matters
LTL carriers price and inspect against the NMFC, so the item number on the bill of lading is a claim the carrier can check. A correct item protects the quoted rate. A missing or wrong one invites an inspection and a reclass. Some booking systems will not accept an LTL order at all without a numeric NMFC on every line.
How an NMFC item is written
An item is a number, sometimes followed by a sub-number, for example an item with subs 1 through 13 where each sub corresponds to a density range and its class. The item describes the commodity and how it is packaged. Two products that look alike to a shipper can fall under different items, and the same product packed differently can change sub and class.
What changed in 2025
In July 2025 the classification moved a large share of commodities onto a standard density scale with 13 tiers, replacing many product-specific fixed classes. The practical effect is that accurate dimensions and weight matter more than they did, because density now decides the class for far more freight.
Finding the right item quickly
The reliable sources are, in order: the item the shipper states, the item used on that shipper's past bills of lading for the same goods, and a lookup against the classification by commodity description. TIO's quote agent follows that order and keeps each confirmed pick per customer, so the same goods are not looked up twice. A pick that conflicts with an earlier one is flagged instead of overwritten.
Looking up an NMFC item for every new commodity slows the booking. TIO's LTL agent picks the item from the classification, checks the pick in code, and when your team corrects it, TIO turns the correction into a rule for your operation.
Learn more →Frequently asked questions
Is an NMFC code the same as freight class?
No. The NMFC code is the item number that identifies the commodity. Freight class is the pricing tier, from 50 to 500, that the item or its density sub assigns. One item can map to several classes depending on density.
Do I need an NMFC number to ship LTL?
It is strongly advised and often required. Carriers rate from the class, but the NMFC item is what supports that class if the shipment is inspected. Many carrier and broker systems require a numeric NMFC on each line before an order can be booked.
Who publishes the NMFC?
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association, a trade body of LTL carriers. The full classification is a paid subscription, so shippers usually get item numbers from their carrier or broker.