LTL freight class (NMFC): the 2025 density scale and how to calculate it

What changed in July 2025

The NMFTA's Docket 2025-1 took effect on 19 July 2025 and moved many classifications from commodity-based to density-based. It replaced the 11-step density scale with a 13-step scale that adds classes 50 and 55, consolidated about 2,000 commodity listings into fewer items and added special handling identifiers for freight that needs special handling, has stowability issues or needs added liability precautions.

Further dockets followed: Docket 2025-2 in fall 2025 with more item cancellations, and Docket 2026-1, scheduled for release on 6 February 2026. Check the current NMFC item for your commodity, because some items still have their own class.

The 13-step density scale

• Less than 1 lb per cubic foot: class 400
• 1 to less than 2 lb per cubic foot: class 300
• 2 to less than 4 lb per cubic foot: class 250
• 4 to less than 6 lb per cubic foot: class 175
• 6 to less than 8 lb per cubic foot: class 125
• 8 to less than 10 lb per cubic foot: class 100
• 10 to less than 12 lb per cubic foot: class 92.5
• 12 to less than 15 lb per cubic foot: class 85
• 15 to less than 22.5 lb per cubic foot: class 70
• 22.5 to less than 30 lb per cubic foot: class 65
• 30 to less than 35 lb per cubic foot: class 60
• 35 to less than 50 lb per cubic foot: class 55
• 50 or more lb per cubic foot: class 50

How to calculate density

Measure each handling unit, including the pallet, at its longest, widest and highest points. Multiply length x width x height in inches and divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet. Divide the total weight in pounds, including the pallet and packaging, by the cubic feet: the result is pounds per cubic foot (PCF), which you match to the scale.

Example: a pallet of 48 x 40 x 50 inches weighing 600 lb has a volume of 96,000 / 1,728 = 55.6 cubic feet and a density of about 10.8 PCF, which falls in the 10 to less than 12 step, class 92.5. Carriers measure freight, often with dimensioning equipment, and reclassify shipments whose class on the bill of lading does not match.