TraxQFind Your Shipment's Freight Class
Calculate density in pounds per cubic foot and the NMFC class it maps to.
How to use the Freight Class & Density calculator
LTL pricing runs on density rather than weight, because trailer space is what a shipment really consumes. Measure it as it will actually ship, on the pallet with packaging: length by width by height in inches, divided by 1,728 for cubic feet, then weight divided by that. Density gets the right answer for most palletised freight, but stowability, handling and liability also factor in and some commodities carry a fixed class. The expensive mistake is declaring low for a cheap quote — carriers reweigh and reclass routinely, and the corrected invoice arrives weeks later with an inspection fee attached.
Freight Class & Density Calculator Questions
The things carriers ask most about this calculation.
How is freight class determined?
Primarily by density — weight divided by cubic feet. Since NMFTA's July 2025 change the standard density scale runs across 13 bands, from class 50 for dense, easily handled freight up to class 400 for very light bulky goods. Denser freight costs less per pound to ship because it uses less trailer space.
How do I calculate freight density?
Multiply length by width by height in inches, divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet, then divide total weight by that figure. A 48 by 40 by 48 inch pallet at 600 pounds works out to roughly 11.25 pounds per cubic foot, which falls in the 10-to-12 band — class 92.5.
Does density alone set the class?
No. Stowability, handling, and liability also factor in, and some commodities carry a fixed class regardless of density. Density gets you the right answer for most palletised freight, but check the NMFC listing for anything hazardous, fragile, or unusually shaped.
What happens if I declare the wrong class?
The carrier reweighs and reclasses the shipment, then bills the difference — often with an inspection fee on top. Getting class right at quote time is far cheaper than correcting it after delivery.
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