At GoShip, we know that shipping freight isn’t just about moving goods from A to B. The way cargo is classified can significantly impact costs, efficiency, and delivery speed. That’s where freight class comes in—a system that ensures shipments are priced fairly and handled correctly.
What Is Freight Class and Why Does It Matter?
Freight class is a standardized way to categorize shipments based on four factors:
- Density: How much space the freight takes up relative to its weight.
- Stowability: Can it be stacked easily, or does it require special handling?
- Handling: Does it need extra care, like refrigeration or fragile handling?
- Liability: How valuable or risky is the shipment in terms of damage or theft?
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) assigns freight a number from 50 to 500—lower numbers mean denser, cheaper-to-ship items, while higher numbers apply to bulky or fragile cargo that costs more to transport.
Why Getting the Right Freight Class Matters
Mistakes in freight classification can lead to unexpected charges, delays, and even disputes with carriers. Here’s why it pays to get it right:
- Save Money: A misclassified shipment can lead to expensive reclassification fees.
- Faster, Smoother Shipping: The right classification helps carriers optimize space, avoiding hold-ups.
- Fewer Disputes: Avoid back-and-forth corrections and extra costs due to incorrect freight class assignments.
At GoShip, we help businesses navigate freight classification easily, ensuring you get accurate pricing and smooth shipping every time.
How a Freight Class Calculator Can Help
Manually determining freight class is time-consuming, but a Freight Class Calculator simplifies the process. Here’s what a top-tier calculator, like the one at GoShip, should offer:
- Automatic Density Calculation – Simply enter weight and dimensions to get your class.
- Real-Time NMFC Classification – No more guessing; find the correct category instantly.
- Instant Cost Estimates – See how class affects shipping rates before you book.
- AI-Powered Adjustments – Advanced algorithms help refine classifications for accuracy.
- Seamless Carrier Integration – Get real-time shipping rates from top freight carriers.
- Smarter Shipping Starts with the Right Freight Class
Understanding freight class isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it’s about running a more efficient, cost-effective supply chain. Using a Freight Class Calculator powered by structured data and AI can help businesses streamline logistics, reduce misclassifications, and keep shipping costs under control.
At GoShip, we provide the tools and expertise to make shipping simpler and more transparent. Looking for a simple way to determine freight class? Try our Freight Class Calculator today and take the guesswork out of shipping!