# Freight Class Explained: All 18 NMFC Classes

Source: https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-explained · Updated: 2026-10-09 · Publisher: FreightAPIs

There are **18 freight classes** in the NMFC system, numbered from 50 to 500. Lower classes mean denser, easier-to-ship freight and lower cost; higher classes mean lighter, bulkier, or higher-risk freight and higher cost. This guide explains each class and the density ranges that drive them.

## The freight class chart (density to class)

For most commodities, density is the primary driver of class. The chart below maps density (pounds per cubic foot) to its typical class:

| Class | Density (lbs/ft³) | Typical freight |
| --- | --- | --- |
| [50](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-50) | 50+ | Bricks, sand, nuts & bolts |
| [55](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-55) | 35-50 | Hardwood flooring, cement |
| [60](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-60) | 30-35 | Car parts, steel cable |
| [65](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-65) | 22.5-30 | Bottled beverages, books |
| [70](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-70) | 15-22.5 | Auto engines, food items |
| [77.5](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-77-5) | 13.5-15 | Tires, bathroom fixtures |
| [85](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-85) | 12-13.5 | Crated machinery, cast iron |
| [92.5](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-92-5) | 10.5-12 | Appliances, computers |
| [100](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-100) | 9-10.5 | Boat covers, canvas, wine cases |
| [110](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-110) | 8-9 | Cabinets, framed art |
| [125](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-125) | 7-8 | Small household appliances |
| [150](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-150) | 6-7 | Auto sheet metal, bookcases |
| [175](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-175) | 5-6 | Clothing, couches, stuffed furniture |
| [200](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-200) | 4-5 | Aircraft parts, aluminum tables |
| [250](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-250) | 3-4 | Mattresses, plasma TVs |
| [300](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-300) | 2-3 | Wood cabinets, tables, chairs |
| [400](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-400) | 1-2 | Deer antlers, lightweight assemblies |
| [500](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-500) |  Tap any class number above for a full guide to that class - its density range, example commodities, cost positioning, and how to confirm it.

## Why lower class costs less

LTL carriers sell trailer space. A pallet of class 50 freight (say, 1,000 lbs in 15 cubic feet) packs a lot of revenue weight into a small footprint, so the carrier earns well per cubic foot and charges a low rate per pound. A pallet of class 400 freight (say, 50 lbs filling the same 15 cubic feet) occupies the same space but carries little weight - so the per-pound rate is much higher to make the space economical.

This is why **increasing density usually lowers your class and your cost**. Smart packaging that reduces wasted space can move freight into a cheaper class.

## When density is not the whole story

Density determines class for most general commodities, but some items are assigned a fixed class regardless of density because of stowability, handling, or liability concerns - hazardous materials, fragile electronics, and high-value goods are common examples. Always verify against the actual NMFC provision rather than assuming density alone. Use the [Freight Class Calculator](https://freightapis.dev/freight-class-calculator) for a density-based estimate, then confirm with the licensed NMFC database.

## FAQ

### What is the lowest freight class?

Class 50 is the lowest and cheapest, used for very dense freight (50+ lbs per cubic foot).

### What is the highest freight class?

Class 500 is the highest, used for very light, bulky, or high-value freight under 1 lb per cubic foot.

### Does higher density mean lower freight class?

Yes. For most commodities, higher density means a lower class number and a lower shipping cost.

## Related guides

- [The Complete Guide to LTL Freight Classification](https://freightapis.dev/learn/complete-guide-to-ltl-freight-classification)
- [What is NMFC? A Complete Guide to Freight Classification](https://freightapis.dev/learn/what-is-nmfc)
- [What is Freight Class 70? Density, Examples & Cost](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-70)
- [What is Freight Class 100? Density, Examples & Cost](https://freightapis.dev/learn/freight-class-100)
- [How to Determine Freight Class: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://freightapis.dev/learn/how-to-determine-freight-class)