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2025 NMFC LTL Classification Changes

Understanding the Upcoming NMFC Classification Changes for July 2025 

What Is Changing? 

Upcoming changes to the NMFC freight classification will simplify the classification by grouping similar articles together and assigning classes based on density. 
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How Will It Affect Shippers? 

Since the changes focus on density, the way freight is classified – and subsequently billed – might change. This could mean higher or lower rates, depending on the specific density of your shipments. 

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When Do The Changes Take Effect? 

The changes for the affected commodities will take effect on July 19th, 2025. 

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What do shippers need to do now? 

It’s important for shippers to take these three simple steps to prepare for the upcoming NMFC classification updates. 

Step 1: Get to know your freight: 

  • Review your product’s packaging, both for efficiency and protection. Can your product be packaged differently and maintain the necessary level of protection while increasing the density?
  • Determine the dimensions and density of your freight. A density calculator is available at Averitt.com/density-calculator
  • Classification of freight that does not have special Handling, Stowability, or Liability considerations will be determined using the following 13-tier density scale:
Sub Density Range 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
  • NMFTA.org should have a finalized list of NMFC items that will be subject to a different density scale based on special Handling, Stowability, or Liability considerations after the NMFTA meeting March 3rd-4th 2025.

Step 2: Understand the effects of the Classification changes:

  • Discuss your current agreements with your carriers to understand how any classification changes will affect your pricing

Step 3: Provide complete shipment information on your Bill of Lading: 

  • Add Dimensions, Density, NMFC item number, and Class for all commodities on your Bill of Lading

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  • Online TMS systems such as AverittConnect will collect this information and send electronically to your carrier

What is the end goal of this process? 

The long-term goal is to create a more accurate and predictable freight classification and billing system for both shippers and carriers. 

Understanding the Upcoming NMFC Classification Changes DOWNLOAD OUR FREE HELPFUL OVERVIEW!  

Additional Resources

For more information and updates, visit the NMFTA.org website, or check out the resources below.
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