First of all, the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is the official tariff from which classifications of different products are established.  This non-profit organization has a  membership made up of member freight carriers.  The “Classification Committee” is a group of elected officials / employees from the group of participating carriers.  They meet regularly to determine the classification of new products, or to rule on requests for changes of classification of products.

Some products are specifically described, whereas others are established based on the density of a product (pounds per cubic foot), such as “Plastic Articles” with a density of 6-12 pounds per cubic foot.  There are so many plastic article products, that it would be nearly impossible to describe each and give it its own classification.  An example would be “plastic toy whistles”.  This product would fall under the “Plastic Articles” classification, with a density factor.  Could you imagine the size of the classification, should each product be described individually?

What are the factors used in determining the “class” of a product?  They are as follows:

• Density – weight per cubic foot
• Stowability – including excessive weight and excessive length
• Ease of Handling – includes special care or attention necessary to handle the goods
• Liability – includes price per pound, susceptibility to theft, liability to damage, and perishability

There are 18 different freight classes from class 50 through class 500.