New LTL Freight Class Rules Now in Effect
The new LTL freight class rules, which apply to shipments rated under NMFC terms, mark a shift to a more precise density-based classification system.
Effective July 19, 2025, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) has implemented a major overhaul to the LTL freight class system through Docket 2025-1 of the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC).
The update introduces a more detailed density-based model whereby density becomes the primary factor in classification, unless one of the three additional criteria—handling, liability, or stowability—significantly affects the shipment.
The changes affect the classification of thousands of commodities and involve the consolidation or redefinition of many generic NMFC item headers.
As part of the July 19 classification overhaul, the NMFC has increased the number of freight class subprovisions from 11 to 13.
The subprovisions define the LTL freight class of a shipment based on its density, which is measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF).
This classification assigns lower classes to higher-density freight, reflecting its more efficient use of space—which translates into lower costs.
Conversely, lower-density items receive higher classes because of the expense of transporting bulkier, lighter goods.
The updated density scale is as follows:
|
Sub |
Density Range (PCF) |
Assigned Freight Class |
|
1 |
Less than 1 |
400 |
|
2 |
1 but less than 2 |
300 |
|
3 |
2 but less than 4 |
250 |
|
4 |
4 but less than 6 |
175 |
|
5 |
6 but less than 8 |
125 |
|
6 |
8 but less than 10 |
100 |
|
7 |
10 but less than 12 |
92.5 |
|
8 |
12 but less than 15 |
85 |
|
9 |
15 but less than 22.5 |
70 |
|
10 |
22.5 but less than 30 |
65 |
|
11 |
30 but less than 35 |
60 |
|
12 |
35 but less than 50 |
55 |
|
13 |
50 or greater |
50 |
To support the 2025 freight classification overhaul, NMFTA launched ClassIT+ on July 15, 2025. This is now the only supported platform for accessing NMFC data.
ClassIT+ replaces the legacy ClassIT system and reflects all the changes outlined in Docket 2025-1 (the official document that includes the approved changes to the NMFC system).
The NMFC Item Lookup Tool is also no longer available.
At Cole International, we offer freight forwarding solutions to help streamline your shipping operations—from origin to destination.
Additionally, our customs and compliance consulting and customs brokerage services are designed to help you navigate changing market conditions, simplify every step of the import process, and ensure your full compliance.
Please reach out to one of our trade professionals to discuss the impact of the new LTL freight class rules on your shipments and how to ensure compliance.