Freight class calculator
A freight class calculator turns a shipment's size and weight into density, then reads the class from the density scale. Multiply length, width and height in inches, divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet, then divide the weight in pounds by the cubic feet. A handling unit 48 by 40 by 45 inches at 450 pounds is 50 cubic feet and 9 pounds per cubic foot, which is class 100 on the 13-tier scale in force since July 19, 2025. The scale runs from class 400 under 1 pound per cubic foot to class 50 at 50 pounds or more. Density gives the class only when the commodity's NMFC item uses a density scale. Some items set a fixed class, so confirm the item before you quote.
How do you calculate freight density?
Density is the weight of one handling unit divided by its cubic feet, measured as the unit is tendered to the carrier.
- Measure the greatest length, width and height in inches. Include the pallet and anything that sticks out.
- Multiply the three numbers, then divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet. 48 x 40 x 45 is 86,400 cubic inches, or 50 cubic feet.
- Divide the weight in pounds by the cubic feet. 450 pounds over 50 cubic feet is 9.00 pounds per cubic foot (pcf).
- Read the class from the scale below, then confirm the NMFC item for the commodity.
What is the freight class density scale?
The density scale is the 13-tier table in the National Motor Freight Classification that links pounds per cubic foot to a class. It applies when the commodity's NMFC item points to it.
| Density (pcf) | Class |
|---|---|
| Under 1 | 400 |
| 1 to under 2 | 300 |
| 2 to under 4 | 250 |
| 4 to under 6 | 175 |
| 6 to under 8 | 125 |
| 8 to under 10 | 100 |
| 10 to under 12 | 92.5 |
| 12 to under 15 | 85 |
| 15 to under 22.5 | 70 |
| 22.5 to under 30 | 65 |
| 30 to under 35 | 60 |
| 35 to under 50 | 55 |
| 50 or more | 50 |
Sources, read November 1, 2026: NMFTA on the top three tiers, NMFTA on calculating density, and TLI's summary of all 13 tiers. NMFC is a trademark of NMFTA. TIO is not affiliated with NMFTA.
Density or NMFC item: which one sets the class?
The NMFC item decides first, and density matters only if the item sends you to a density scale.
| What the NMFC item says | What sets the class | What this calculator tells you |
|---|---|---|
| Uses the 13-tier density scale | Density as tendered | The class |
| Uses its own density table | Density, on that item's table | Density only |
| Sets a fixed class | The item | Nothing about class |
What happens when the class is wrong?
The carrier corrects it and bills the difference. Terminals weigh and measure freight as it crosses the dock. The corrected invoice normally arrives after delivery, and whoever quoted the original price pays. See the freight class glossary entry for the four characteristics behind a class.
How does TIO set the class on a live quote?
TIO's LTL quoting sets the class in code, in a fixed order: the class the customer stated, then a class already confirmed for that customer's commodity, then the density scale. When two sources disagree, the request goes to a person with the facts attached. The language model reads the email. It does not pick the class.
Common questions
How do I calculate freight class from dimensions?
Multiply length, width and height in inches, then divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet. Divide the weight in pounds by the cubic feet to get density. A unit 48 by 40 by 45 inches at 450 pounds is 9 pounds per cubic foot, which is class 100 on the density scale.
What changed in the freight class density scale?
NMFC Docket 2025-1 took effect on July 19, 2025 and replaced the 11-tier scale with 13 tiers. Density from 30 to under 35 pounds per cubic foot stays class 60. Density from 35 to under 50 is now class 55, and 50 or more is class 50.
Is density alone enough to set the class?
No. Density gives the class only when the NMFC item for the commodity uses a density scale. NMFTA says you also need the correct NMFC item and its provisions, because some items set a fixed class or reflect handling, stowability or liability.
Do I measure the pallet too?
Yes. Measure the handling unit as it is tendered, using the greatest length, width and height, including the pallet and anything that sticks out. Run each different pallet size on its own line, because each unit has its own density.
Quoting LTL by hand all day?
Let's have a quick discussion about your process. We work around your people and your schedule.
Talk about your process