An NMFC number, or National Motor Freight Classification number, is a standardized code used in the logistics industry to classify and categorize various goods for transportation. It helps determine the appropriate freight class and shipping rates for Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipments. The NMFC system considers several key factors: density, stowability, handling, and liability. These factors help carriers understand the characteristics of the goods being transported, ensuring accurate pricing and proper handling.
The NMFC system includes 18 freight classes, ranging from 50 to 500. Lower class numbers generally indicate denser, easier-to-handle items that are less expensive to ship, while higher class numbers represent less dense or more fragile items that are more costly to transport. For example, dense items like bricks are typically classified as a lower freight class, such as class 50, while lighter or more fragile items might be classified as a higher class.
Assigning the correct NMFC number is crucial because it affects shipping rates and ensures that carriers handle goods appropriately. NMFC codes are specific to each commodity and are used extensively in the LTL shipping industry to streamline the shipping process and ensure that freight is properly categorized and priced.
