Freight Class Calculator
This freight class calculator estimates your LTL class from the size and weight of your shipment. Enter your dimensions and weight, and it works out the density and the class that goes with it on the current NMFC scale. Then let someone at DGL Logistics check it before your freight ships, so a reclass charge does not show up on the invoice.
Measure the longest, widest and tallest points, including the pallet and any overhang. Include the pallet in the weight.
Estimate based on the NMFC 13-tier density scale (effective July 19, 2025). Some commodities are classed by handling, stowability or liability instead of density, and carriers may re-weigh and re-measure your freight. Want the class confirmed before it ships? Get an LTL freight quote or call +1 (704) 264-1234.
How Do You Calculate Freight Class?
Freight class comes from density. Here is how to calculate freight class by hand: divide the weight in pounds by the volume in cubic feet, then find that number on the NMFC density scale.
- Measure the length, width and height in inches at the widest points, including the pallet.
- Multiply the three numbers and divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet.
- Divide the total weight, pallet included, by the cubic feet. That is your density in pounds per cubic foot.
- Match the density to the class in the chart below.
A 48 x 40 x 48 inch pallet that weighs 500 pounds works out to 53.33 cubic feet. Divide 500 by 53.33 and you get 9.38 pounds per cubic foot, which is class 100.
NMFC Freight Class Chart (Density Scale)
Since July 19, 2025, the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) uses a 13-tier density scale. This freight class chart starts at class 50 for freight of 50 pounds per cubic foot or more and ends at class 400 for freight under 1 pound per cubic foot.
| Density (lb per cubic foot) | Freight class |
|---|---|
| 50 or more | 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 |
The denser the freight, the lower the class, and the lower the rate per hundred pounds. Classes 50 and 55 came in with the 2025 update, which can bring the cost down on heavy, compact shipments. Source: NMFTA. Scale checked September 2026.
How Do You Measure Freight for Freight Class?
Measure the whole handling unit at its longest, widest and tallest points, including the pallet and anything hanging over the edge, then weigh it with the pallet on.
With pallets and crates, add the pallet’s height to the height of the freight and count the pallet in the weight. With boxes, use the outside of the carton. A cylinder such as a drum, roll or tube gets billed as the square box it would fit inside, so multiply the diameter by itself and then by the length. For anything an odd shape, measure the widest points, and round up when a measurement falls between inches.
Estes Express Lines publishes the same method for pallets and cylinders.
When Doesn’t Density Decide Freight Class?
Density sets the class for most general freight, but not all of it. Fragile freight, or freight that needs careful handling, can be classed on handling instead. So can freight that cannot be stacked or wastes trailer space because of its shape. High value, easy to steal and perishable goods are rated on liability. Hazardous materials come with their own handling and paperwork rules, so talk to us before leaning on a density estimate. Some shippers also have a freight all kinds (FAK) agreement that bills a set class no matter what the density says.
A calculator cannot see any of that, which is why it helps to have the class checked before you book.
What Happens If Your Freight Class Is Wrong?
If the carrier’s weight or measurements do not match your bill of lading, the shipment gets re-billed at the correct class, usually with a reclass or inspection fee on top.
Most large LTL carriers now weigh and measure freight at the terminal with forklift scales and 3D dimensioners, so a wrong class rarely gets through. Reclass fees commonly run 25 to 150 dollars on top of the higher rate (Warp). Measuring carefully, counting the pallet, and describing the freight the way it actually is will avoid most of them, and it costs nothing to have someone who does this daily look first.
Want your class checked before it ships? DGL Logistics has moved LTL freight for businesses since 1991 and passes along discounted carrier rates. Get an LTL freight quote or call +1 (704) 264-1234.
About This Freight Class Calculator
The density scale behind this freight class calculator comes straight from the NMFTA and was last checked in September 2026. The NMFC gets updated through dockets a few times a year, so if you are reading this much later, call us and we will confirm the class against the current version.
The tool covers density only. It does not know your commodity’s NMFC item number, whether your carrier has agreed a set class with you, or what the driver will measure at pickup. Treat the result as a solid starting point, and let us confirm it before the freight moves.