Freight Density & Class Calculator
Enter your packaged dimensions and total weight to calculate freight density and a density-based class estimate. Include the pallet, packaging and anything that extends beyond the load.
Line 1 — cu ft — lb/cu ft Class —
Enter the weight and all three dimensions.
Density to Freight Class
The eighteen density bands this calculator reads your answer off. Where an NMFC item is classed on density, denser freight takes a lower class, because it uses less of the trailer for the weight it carries.
- 50 or more
- 50
- 35 to under 50
- 55
- 30 to under 35
- 60
- 22 to under 30
- 65
- 15 to under 22
- 70
- 13 to under 15
- 77.5
- 12 to under 13
- 85
- 10 to under 12
- 92.5
- 9 to under 10
- 100
- 8 to under 9
- 110
- 7 to under 8
- 125
- 6 to under 7
- 150
- 5 to under 6
- 175
- 4 to under 5
- 200
- 3 to under 4
- 250
- 2 to under 3
- 300
- 1 to under 2
- 400
- Under 1
- 500
A worked example. A pallet measuring 48 × 40 × 45 inches and weighing 450 lb occupies 50 cubic feet, so its density is 9 lb per cubic foot — which reads off the chart above as class 100.
Density is one part of freight class.
The applicable NMFC item determines how your goods are classified. Some items use density ranges; others have provisions related to handling, stowability or liability. Packaging can matter too. We can help check the item and the class before you book.
- Stowability: freight that cannot be stacked, or will not sit square on a trailer, takes space a density figure does not see.
- Handling: anything fragile, awkward or needing special care can move the class on its own.
- Liability: high-value or hazardous goods carry provisions that have little to do with what they weigh.
- The NMFC item: it decides which of these apply, and some items carry their own density ranges. If you have the item number, send it and we will check it with you.
The questions that come up most.
How do I calculate freight density?
Multiply the packaged length, width and height in inches, then divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet. Divide the total packaged weight in pounds by that volume.
A 48 × 40 × 45 inch pallet weighing 450 lb occupies 50 cubic feet, so its density is 9 lb per cubic foot.
How do I find the freight class for my shipment?
Identify the NMFC item that describes your goods and check its classification requirements. Some items use density ranges; others have different provisions.
The calculator above gives a density-based estimate, which should be checked against the applicable item before booking. Send us the item number and the shipment details and we will check it with you.
What is the difference between freight class and an NMFC code?
An NMFC item number identifies a commodity’s classification entry. Freight class is the rating category assigned under that entry.
An item may carry a fixed class, or different classes depending on density and other requirements.
Do pallet dimensions and weight include the pallet and packaging?
Yes. Measure the finished shipping unit at its longest, widest and highest points, including the pallet, the packaging and any overhang. Use the total weight of the goods, pallet and packaging.
If you change the packaging or the pallet configuration afterwards, measure and weigh it again: a change in height or an overhang changes the cubic feet and the density with it.
How do I calculate density for multiple pallets?
Measure and weigh each pallet separately. Where they are identical, the piece count above does that for you.
A combined density can be calculated by dividing the total weight by the combined cubic volume, but whether the pallets can take a combined classification depends on the goods and the applicable NMFC provisions.
Does higher freight density always mean a lower freight class?
Not always. Higher density can produce a lower class where the applicable NMFC item uses density ranges.
Handling, stowability, liability and item-specific requirements can all affect classification too.
Why did the carrier change my freight class?
A carrier may find different dimensions, weight, packaging or commodity information when it inspects the shipment, and those differences can change the density or the applicable NMFC classification.
Accurate measurements and a clear description of the goods are what reduce the discrepancies. A reclassification can also bring additional charges with it.
How does freight class affect LTL shipping costs?
Freight class is one factor in class-based LTL pricing. For otherwise comparable shipments, a lower class generally supports a lower rate.
Distance, shipment size, carrier pricing and any additional pickup or delivery services also affect the quote.