FREE LTL TOOL
Calculate shipment density in pounds per cubic foot, estimate density-based freight class, and check reclassification risk before requesting LTL rates.
Density-based LTL class estimate
Freight class is a classification system used for LTL shipping in the United States. It helps carriers price shipments based on how dense, easy to handle, easy to stow and risky the freight is.
Density is one of the biggest inputs, but it is not the only factor. Commodity rules, liability, handling difficulty and stowability can all affect the final NMFC class.
For LTL density:
Higher density usually means lower freight class, but carrier and NMFC rules still apply.
Dense freight generally trends toward lower classes like 50–70.
Mid-density freight may land in classes around 85–125.
Bulky lightweight freight often moves into higher classes.
NMFC commodity rules can override pure density estimates.
No. This tool gives a density-based planning estimate. Official class may depend on NMFC commodity rules and carrier review.
Convert the shipment volume to cubic feet, then divide weight in pounds by cubic feet.
Usually yes. Dense freight often receives a lower class than bulky lightweight freight, but commodity-specific rules can override density.
Yes. Carriers can inspect, weigh, dimension and reclassify shipments if the submitted details are inaccurate.