How to Calculate Freight Class - Complete Guide
Understanding Freight Class
Freight classes range from 50 to 500, with lower numbers representing denser and more valuable shipments. Higher numbers indicate lighter and more voluminous shipments, which typically cost more to ship. There are 18 different classes in total, each representing a different level of shipping cost.
Factors Affecting Freight Class
- Density: The weight of the item divided by its volume (cubic feet). Denser items usually have a lower freight class.
- Value: The monetary value of the shipment. High-value items may require extra insurance or precautions, increasing the freight class.
- Handling: The ease with which the item can be loaded and unloaded. Fragile or hazardous items may have a higher freight class.
- Liability: The likelihood of theft or damage during shipping. Items that are prone to theft or damage will have a higher freight class.
- Stowability: The ease with which the item can be stored in a shipping container. Items that are difficult to stow (e.g., hazardous materials) have a higher freight class.
Calculating Freight Class
To calculate freight class, follow these steps:
- Determine the dimensions of the shipment: Measure the length, width, and height of the shipment in inches.
- Calculate the volume: Multiply the length, width, and height to find the volume in cubic inches. Divide the result by 1,728 (the number of cubic inches in a cubic foot) to convert it to cubic feet.
- Find the density: Divide the weight of the shipment (in pounds) by its volume (in cubic feet). This will give you the density in pounds per cubic foot.
- Consult the NMFTA freight class chart: The NMFTA provides a chart that lists the different freight classes based on density. Find the class that corresponds to your shipment's density.
Using the Freight Class Calculator
To save time and effort, consider using the Freight Class Calculator provided by WAREHOUSEWIZ. This online tool simplifies the process of calculating freight class. All you need to do is enter the dimensions and weight of your shipment, and the calculator will automatically crunch the numbers for your shipment.
Calculating Freight Class for Multiple Pallets
When shipping multiple pallets, it's essential to calculate the freight class for the entire shipment to ensure accurate shipping costs. To do this, follow these steps:
- Determine the dimensions of each pallet: Measure the length, width, and height of each pallet in inches, including the height of the goods stacked on the pallet.
- Calculate the volume of each pallet: Multiply the length, width, and height of each pallet to find its volume in cubic inches. Divide the result by 1,728 to convert it to cubic feet.
- Find the total volume and weight: Add the volumes of all the pallets in cubic feet, and the weight of all pallets in pounds.
- Calculate the overall density: Divide the total weight of the shipment (in pounds) by the total volume (in cubic feet). This will give you the overall density in pounds per cubic foot.
- Consult the NMFTA freight class chart: Use the overall density to find the appropriate freight class on the NMFTA chart.
Keep in mind that if the pallets contain items with different freight classes, it may be necessary to calculate and apply the freight class for each pallet individually. This can be done by following the steps mentioned above for each pallet and then providing this information to your carrier. Remember that the freight class calculator can also be used for calculating freight class for multiple pallets, saving you time and effort.
