Estimate the LTL freight class of your shipment from its density. Enter each pallet or crate's dimensions, weight and count, and get pounds per cubic foot, the matching class on the 2025 NMFC density scale and how much weight or space would move it to the next class.
Last updated:
Units
Handling unit (pallet, crate or box)
in
in
in
Measure to the highest point, including the pallet.
lb
Include the pallet and packaging.
Enter your values to see the result.
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How to use the Freight Class Calculator
Choose units: inches & pounds or centimeters & kilograms.
Measure the handling unit at its longest, widest and highest points, including the pallet.
Enter the weight of one unit with pallet and packaging, and how many identical units you ship.
Add other pallets on separate lines as L x W x H x weight x qty if they differ.
Press Calculate to see density, the estimated class and the density scale.
Freight density formula
Cubic feet = length × width × height (in) ÷ 1,728. In centimeters: L × W × H (cm) ÷ 28,317.
Density (lb/ft³) = total weight (lb) ÷ total cubic feet
Metric: 1 lb/ft³ = 16.0185 kg/m³
Example: two pallets of 48 × 40 × 50 in at 650 lb each and one of 48 × 40 × 36 in at 280 lb. Cube = 2 × 55.56 + 40 = 151.11 ft³, weight = 1,580 lb, density = 10.46 lb/ft³, class 92.5 on the 2025 scale.
2025 NMFC density scale
Density (lb/ft³)
Class
Density (lb/ft³)
Class
Less than 1
400
10 to under 12
92.5
1 to under 2
300
12 to under 15
85
2 to under 4
250
15 to under 22.5
70
4 to under 6
175
22.5 to under 30
65
6 to under 8
125
30 to under 35
60
8 to under 10
100
35 to under 50
55
50 or more
50
Before 2025, many shippers and brokers used an unofficial 18-class density chart (class 500 under 1 lb/ft³, then 400, 300, 250, 200, 175, 150, 125, 110, 100, 92.5, 85, 77.5, 70, 65, 60, 55 and 50 at 50 lb/ft³ or more). You can switch to it in the calculator for comparison with older quotes.
Tips to lower your freight class
Use the smallest pallet that fits and avoid overhang: carriers measure the extreme outside dimensions.
Stack tighter and cut empty space in cartons; a shorter, denser pallet can drop one or two classes.
Measure and weigh accurately, including the pallet. Reweigh and reclass fees can cost more than the difference between classes.
Plan the load with the Pallet Calculator, then check density here with the finished height and weight.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate freight class?
Measure length, width and height in inches, multiply them and divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet. Divide the total weight in pounds by the total cubic feet to get density in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³). Then find that density on the NMFC density scale. For example, a 48 × 40 × 48 in pallet weighing 500 lb is 53.33 ft³, so its density is 9.38 lb/ft³, which is class 100 on the 2025 scale.
What changed with freight classes in 2025?
The NMFTA's 2025 changes, which took effect on July 19, 2025, moved many more commodities to density-based classification and introduced a 13-tier density scale running from class 50 (50 lb/ft³ or more) to class 400 (under 1 lb/ft³). Class 500 is no longer used on that scale. Some items are still classed by other characteristics, so always check your commodity's NMFC item.
Is a higher freight class more expensive?
Yes. Class 50 is the cheapest per hundredweight and class 400 or 500 the most expensive, because light, bulky freight takes up trailer space without paying for much weight. Raising density, for example by using a smaller pallet or stacking tighter, can lower the class and the rate.
Do I include the pallet in the dimensions and weight?
Yes. Carriers measure and weigh the whole handling unit as it is tendered: the pallet or skid, the freight, wrap and any overhang, at the extreme outside points. Leaving out the pallet height or weight is a common reason for reclassification and extra charges.
What is freight density?
Freight density is how heavy a shipment is for the space it takes up, usually expressed in pounds per cubic foot. It is the main factor in the NMFC classification of many commodities, along with stowability, handling and liability.
Is this calculator's freight class guaranteed?
No. It estimates the class from density only. The class that applies is set by the NMFC item for your commodity, and a carrier may inspect, re-weigh or re-measure the shipment. Confirm the NMFC item with your carrier or broker, and describe the freight accurately on the bill of lading.
Are all the tools on FreeToolCabin tested for quality and accuracy?
Yes! Every tool on our site undergoes automated Q/A testing in real browser environments to ensure high precision, correct output, and zero errors. If you happen to spot a bug or have a suggestion, please contact us at [email protected] and our team will review it right away.