Freight Class Calculator

Estimate the NMFC freight class of an LTL shipment from its dimensions and weight using the density scale.

How to use the Freight Class Calculator

  1. Enter the length (incl. pallet) and pick its unit.
  2. Enter the width and pick its unit.
  3. Enter the height (incl. pallet) and pick its unit.
  4. Enter the weight per piece and pick its unit.
  5. Enter the number of identical pieces.
  6. Press Calculate. The result updates automatically as you type, and you can switch the result unit at any time.

About the Freight Class Calculator

Less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers in the United States price freight by class, from 50 (dense, durable and easy to handle) to 500 (light, bulky or fragile). Classes are defined in the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC). Many commodities are classed purely by density, and the NMFC's 2025 update moved a large number of items onto a 13-step density scale, which is what this calculator uses.

Treat the result as an estimate. Some items have a fixed class regardless of density, and handling, stowability and liability can change it. Confirm the NMFC item number with your carrier, because a reclass after pickup can add fees. Measure the full shipping unit, including the pallet and any overhang.

Formula

Cubic feet = L × W × H (in) ÷ 1,728
Density (lb/ft³) = Total weight (lb) ÷ Total cubic feet

The density is then looked up in the scale below. A 48 × 40 × 48 in pallet weighing 500 lb occupies 53.3 ft³, so its density is 9.4 lb/ft³, which falls in the 8–10 band: class 100.

Example calculation

Using the default values:

  • Length (incl. pallet) = 48 in
  • Width = 40 in
  • Height (incl. pallet) = 48 in
  • Weight per piece = 500 lb
  • Number of identical pieces = 1

the calculator returns:

  • Estimated freight class: Class 100
  • Density: 9.38 lb/ft³
  • Density (metric): 150.2 kg/m³
  • Total volume: 53.3333 ft³

Frequently asked questions

What freight class is a standard pallet?

It depends on density. A 48 × 40 in pallet that is 48 in tall needs to weigh about 534 lb (10 lb/ft³) to reach class 92.5 and about 800 lb (15 lb/ft³) to reach class 70.

Does a lower freight class cost less?

Yes. Lower classes are denser and cheaper per hundredweight; class 500 can cost several times as much per pound as class 50.

Is density the only factor in freight class?

No. Stowability, handling and liability also matter, and some products are assigned a class by the NMFC regardless of density.

Last updated: · Category: Shipping & Logistics calculators

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