As we head into the second half of 2025, major changes to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) are on the horizon, and if your business relies on less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, staying informed has never been more important. Effective July 19, 2025, the NMFC system was overhauled to improve accuracy, transparency, and efficiency in freight classification. These changes are already impacting how carriers audit shipments and how shippers need to prepare and label their freight. From updated density guidelines to tighter packaging standards, the new system demands precision and proactive compliance to avoid costly penalties and delays.

Whether you’re shipping high-volume products or managing small parcel deliveries, understanding the updated freight class system and how to use a freight class calculator can help you avoid costly reclassifications, optimize rates, and ensure compliance. Try our freight class calculator today to ensure your shipments are classified accurately and cost-effectively.

What’s New in 2025: A Smarter Approach to Freight Classification

Major updates by the  National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) for the NMFC are reshaping how shippers assign freight classes and calculate shipping costs. At the heart of these changes is a shift toward a more density-focused classification model. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Density-Based Classification Becomes the Standard
   Starting July 2025, a new 13-class density scale will replace the existing 11-class system. For roughly 2,000 commodities, density (the weight-to-volume ratio) will now be the primary factor in determining freight class, not just the commodity type. If you’re not already measuring density, now’s the time to master how to calculate freight class accurately.
2. Broader, Simplified Commodity Categories
   Thousands of NMFC item codes are being consolidated into streamlined categories. While this simplifies the classification process, shippers will need to review and update their existing classifications.
3. Clearer Tags for Special Handling Freight
   New identifiers will be applied to freight requiring special handling, such as hazardous, fragile, or oversized items, ensuring these shipments are properly classified and priced.
4. Introduction of ClassIT+
   The new ClassIT+ platform from NMFTA offers a modern, user-friendly interface to help shippers quickly find and apply the correct classification. Enhanced integration capabilities also reduce the risk of manual errors and support seamless TMS integration.

Why Freight Class Accuracy Matters More Than Ever

As the NMFC guidelines evolve in 2025, achieving freight class accuracy is more critical than ever. Errors in LTL freight classification can lead to misquotes, reweighs, reclassifications, and costly shipment delays. For shippers seeking to protect their bottom line and maintain strong carrier relationships, utilizing a reliable freight class calculator is now a necessity, not a luxury.

The Cost of Misclassified Freight

Inaccurate freight class assignments can result in:

• Higher shipping costs
• Delayed transit times
• Billing disputes and invoice adjustments
• Strained relationships with carriers

With the transition to a density-based freight classification model, every shipper needs to understand how to calculate freight class consistently and adequately.

How to Calculate Freight Class in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re a logistics manager or a warehouse coordinator, understanding how to classify your freight is essential. Here’s how to do it accurately:

Step 1: Weigh Your Shipment

Use a certified scale to weigh your fully packaged goods, including pallets, dunnage, and wrapping.

Step 2: Measure Dimensions

Measure the length, width, and height in inches. Include anything that overhangs a pallet or protrudes from the box.

Step 3: Calculate Density

Convert your measurements into cubic feet (L x W x H ÷ 1,728), then divide the weight by the cubic feet to determine pounds per cubic foot (PCF).

Step 4: Reference a Freight Class Calculator

Use a reputable freight class calculator or refer to the new ClassIT+ to determine the correct class based on your density and any special handling needs.

Step 5: Apply NMFC Guidelines

Make sure you review the updated NMFC documentation to determine if your item has been reclassified or moved into a broader commodity category.

Preparing for the NMFC Changes: Your Shipper Checklist

With the 2025 NMFC updates shifting the landscape of LTL freight classification, it’s crucial for shippers to take proactive steps to ensure compliance, minimize costs, and maintain operational efficiency. Here’s a strategic checklist from EASE to help you get ahead:

1. Audit and Update Your Freight Class Codes

Review your current NMFC codes and compare them against the new density-based classification structure. Update your TMS ( Transportation Management System), ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), and BOL (Bill of Lading) templates to reflect any changes in freight class or special handling identifiers.

2. Capture Accurate Freight Dimensions

Density is now the primary factor to calculate freight class. Invest in freight dimensioning tools or train your team to measure shipments accurately, especially for dense, irregular, or oversized items.

3. Reevaluate Your Packaging Strategy

Optimizing packaging for higher density can lower your freight class and reduce LTL shipping costs. Avoid over-packing with lightweight or bulky items, and consider redesigning packaging where necessary.

4. Train Your Shipping Team

Ensure your staff is up to speed on how to calculate freight class, determine density, and apply updated NMFC guidelines. Ongoing training helps prevent costly errors and classification disputes.

5. Partner with a Freight Classification Expert

EASE provides expert support to guide you through the NMFC transition. From freight class calculator tools to real-time consultation, we help you stay compliant, reduce reclassification risk, and improve your bottom line.

Leverage Technology to Simplify Freight Classification

As the 2025 NMFC updates take effect, shippers must rely on smart logistics technology to remain accurate and competitive. Leveraging tools like freight class calculators, automated dimensioning systems, and integrated TMS platforms can help eliminate guesswork, reduce misclassification risk, and ensure full compliance with the new LTL freight classification standards.

At EASE, we collaborate with top carriers and logistics platforms to equip our clients with everything they need to adapt seamlessly. With our support, you can:

• Instantly calculate freight class using accurate data
• Avoid costly misclassification penalties and reweigh charges
• Optimize packaging strategies to reduce your freight class and save on shipping
• Stay fully compliant with 2025 NMFC regulations

Final Thoughts: Freight Class Accuracy Is Non-Negotiable in 2025

The July 2025 NMFC changes signal a significant shift in the way LTL freight classification is determined, with density now taking precedence. Shippers who understand how to calculate freight class correctly, use the right tools, and train their teams effectively will gain a major advantage in cost control, efficiency, and compliance.

At EASE, we’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve. Our team provides hands-on support, real-time classification solutions, and a reliable freight class calculator tool to simplify the transition and unlock long-term value.

Unsure how to classify your freight under the new rules?
Speak with one of our logistics specialists or try our freight class calculator today.