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2025 NMFC Changes

2025 NMFC Changes: How They’ll Impact Your LTL Shipping

What is the NMFC?

“The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC)® is a standardized system in North America that classifies freight for LTL shipping purposes. It simplifies how carriers and shippers determine shipping costs and procedures.” – According to the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA).

How Is Freight Class Currently Calculated?

Freight class is a critical factor for LTL (Less-than-Truckload) shipments in determining rates, and it’s calculated based on guidelines set by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). The current method considers several factors, primarily using a system of 18 freight classes (ranging from Class 50 to Class 500). Here’s an overview of the key factors used to calculate freight class:

  • Density (Primary Factor) – Weight of the shipment relative to its size.
  • Stowability – Refers to how easily the shipment can be loaded and stowed in a truck alongside other cargo.
  • Handling Requirements – Shipments that require special handling (due to fragility, sensitivity, or specific equipment).
  • Liability – The risk of theft, damage, perishability, or spoilage of the goods.

What Are The Freight Class Changes For 2025?

Standardized Density Scale:

  • Moving from an 11-subprovision density scale to a 13-subprovision density scale
  • Will apply to LTL freight with no handling, stowability, and liability issues.
  • Adding classes 50 and 55 for heavy, dense products.

 

Condensed And Modernized Commodity Listings:

  • Reorganizing and streamlining item descriptions to reflect current shipping practices more efficiently.
  • Remove outdated or redundant classifications, improve searchability, and ensure more accurate identification of goods within the NMFC system.
  • These changes aim to simplify classifications, reduce confusion, and enhance pricing accuracy through clearer, standardized descriptions.

Over 2,000 commodities will be updated as part of the 2025 NMFC changes, reflecting modern shipping practices and ensuring more accurate classifications and pricing. Visit nmfta.org/public-docket-files to access official documents.

Why The Changes And How Do They Benefit Shippers?

The current NMFC system is complex and outdated. The NMFC changes are driven by the need to modernize and simplify freight classification for improved accuracy, efficiency, and cost predictability. By adopting a density-based approach, updating commodity listings, and enhancing digital tools like ClassIT, the NMFTA aims to reflect current shipping trends, minimize errors, and reduce disputes between shippers and carriers. The goal is to ensure a more standardized and transparent system that benefits both sides of the freight industry.

Simplify the NMFC

Using a standardized approach based on density, handling, stowability, and liability.

Enhance User Experience

The NMFC will be easier to use and understand.

Increase Efficiency

Classifying freight will be more accurate on the first try.

How Can Flat World Help?

Expert Support:

Our team specializes in guiding you through the new freight classification system, helping you reclassify shipments, update pricing models, and adapt to the changes effectively. With personalized support, we’ll ensure that the transition is smooth and tailored to your business.

Adaptable Technology:

Along with expert advice, we provide advanced technology, including our Pipeline TMS platform, to help shippers navigate freight class changes seamlessly. Pipeline offers real-time insights, ensuring correct classifications are applied while tracking updates and flagging discrepancies.

Still Have Questions?

For assistance, contact your dedicated sales representative, email us at info@flatworldgs.com, or give us a call at 636-339-3794. We’re here to help!

Important Dates for the 2025 Freight Classification Updates

  • March 3, 2025: Public meeting for stakeholders to review and discuss the changes.
  • July 19, 2025: Official implementation of the new classification system, including density-based classes and other updates.

Shippers should mark these key dates to stay informed and prepared for the 2025 updates. The NMFC website offersvaluable resources and guidance to help you smoothly transition and understand the changes as they take effect.info.nmfta.org/2025-nmfc-changes