Freight Class Calculator
Enter your shipment’s dimensions and weight to instantly calculate your PCF (Density) and estimated NMFC Freight Class.
If you manage logistics, run an e-commerce business, or work in a warehouse, you know that calculating shipping costs for LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight can be a massive headache. Shipping carriers don’t just charge by weight; they charge by Freight Class, which is heavily determined by the density of your pallet.
Instead of doing manual math on the warehouse floor or navigating clunky carrier websites, our free Freight Class Calculator instantly does the work for you. Just enter the dimensions and weight of your shipment (including the pallet!), and this tool will automatically calculate your total cubic volume, your precise PCF (Pounds per Cubic Foot), and your estimated density-based NMFC Freight Class.
How is Freight Class Calculated?
While the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) uses four factors to determine a freight class (Density, Stowability, Handling, and Liability), Density (PCF) is the primary metric used for most general commodities.
To find your density, you must calculate your Pounds per Cubic Foot. Here is the exact math our tool uses in the background:
- Calculate Cubic Inches: Length × Width × Height (in inches).
- Convert to Cubic Feet: Divide the cubic inches by 1,728.
- Calculate PCF: Divide the total weight (in pounds) by the total cubic feet.
Example: A pallet that is 48″ L × 40″ W × 48″ H, weighing 500 lbs, has a volume of 53.33 cubic feet. 500 lbs / 53.33 cu ft = 9.37 PCF.
Density to Freight Class Chart
For commodities whose freight class is based solely on density, carriers use a standardised scale. The higher the density (heavier and more compact), the lower the freight class. Lower freight classes are generally cheaper to ship!
| Density Bracket (PCF) | Estimated Freight Class | Typical Cargo Type |
| Less than 1 PCF | Class 400 | Ping pong balls, uncompressed foam |
| 1 to 2 PCF | Class 300 | Model kits, cork |
| 2 to 4 PCF | Class 250 | Bamboo furniture, mattresses |
| 4 to 6 PCF | Class 150 | Sheet metal parts, auto hoods |
| 6 to 8 PCF | Class 125 | Small household appliances |
| 8 to 10 PCF | Class 100 | Car covers, canvas |
| 10 to 12 PCF | Class 92.5 | Computers, monitors |
| 12 to 15 PCF | Class 85 | Cast iron stoves, transmission parts |
| 15 to 22.5 PCF | Class 70 | Car engines, boxed food items |
| 22.5 to 30 PCF | Class 65 | Books, bottled beverages |
| 30 to 35 PCF | Class 60 | Ceramic tiles, auto accessories |
| 35 to 50 PCF | Class 55 | Hardwood flooring, copy paper |
| Over 50 PCF | Class 50 | Nuts, bolts, steel rods |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I include the pallet in my dimensions and weight?
Yes, absolutely. When calculating LTL freight, the carrier measures the outer dimensions of the entire shipping unit, including the pallet, shrink wrap, and any overhang. Always weigh the pallet together with the goods, and measure from the highest and widest points.
What is NMFC?
NMFC stands for National Motor Freight Classification. It is a standardised system developed by the NMFTA that groups commodities into 18 classes (Classes 50-400). This helps carriers establish uniform pricing across the logistics industry.
Why do shipping carriers care about density?
Trucks have a maximum weight limit and a maximum space limit. If you ship a pallet of pillows, it occupies a large amount of space but weighs very little (low density/high class). If you ship a pallet of bricks, it takes up very little space but weighs a lot (high density/low class). Density helps carriers balance their trucks efficiently.
What is the cheapest freight class?
Class 50 is the lowest and generally the most cost-effective freight class. Items in Class 50 are extremely dense, incredibly durable, and easy to stack or stow, such as solid steel beams, bulk hardware (nuts and bolts), or heavy construction materials.
Does this calculator guarantee my shipping rate?
No. While this calculator provides a highly accurate density-based freight class, some specific items have fixed NMFC codes regardless of their density because they are fragile, hazardous, or difficult to stow. Always verify the exact NMFC code with your carrier if you are shipping specialised or high-liability goods.