The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) has announced significant updates to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, set to take effect on Saturday, July 19, 2025.
These goal is to streamline the less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping process, enhancing efficiency and clarity for shippers, carriers and third-party logistics providers.
Key Changes to the NMFC System
- Expansion of the Density Scale: The existing 11-class density scale will be broadened to a 13-class system by adding classes 50 and 55.
- Reclassification of Commodities: Certain commodities without handling, stowability or liability concerns will transition to the 13-sub density scale. (Single-class items, items with modified density breaks, sub-provision items with multiple classes).
- Introduction of New Symbols: New symbols will be introduced to identify items with specific handling, stowability or liability characteristics, providing clearer guidance for classification.
Rationale Behind the NMFC Changes
The NMFTA’s initiative, termed “Classification Reimagined,” seeks to simplify the current NMFC system, which has become complex and sometimes confusing.
- Enhance user experience
- Improve classification efficiency
- Reduce discrepancies between shippers, carriers and third-party logistics providers
NMFC Impact on LTL Freight Classification and Costs
With the new standardized density scale, many freight classifications will be determined primarily by shipment density, minimizing the need to consider additional factors like handling, stowability or liability.
Preparing for the NMFC Changes
To adapt to these upcoming changes, FreightWise recommends the following steps:
- Review Affected Commodities: Identify if your products fall under the categories impacted by the new density scale.
- Calculate Shipment Density: Determine the density of your shipments by measuring length, width, height and weight. This can be done simply with a tape measure, and making sure teams are providing those dimensions or through more robust solutions like dimensioner in your warehouse. This calculation will be crucial in identifying the appropriate freight class under the new system.
- Stay Informed and Engage: Participate in NMFTA-hosted listening sessions and workshops to understand the nuances of the new classification system. These sessions offer valuable insights and allow you to address specific concerns. NMFTA’s guide to the 2025 Changes.
- Update Shipping Practices: Ensure that your shipping documentation accurately reflects the new classifications. This may involve updating bills of lading and training staff on the revised procedures.
How FreightWise Can Help
For FreightWise customers, we can help!
- Providing detailed analyses of how the NMFC updates affect your shipments
- Offering tools and resources to calculate shipment density and determine correct classifications
- Assisting in updating shipping documentation to comply with the new standards
- Keeping you informed about ongoing developments related to NMFC changes
Stay Connected
NMFTA also has some great resources on NMFC changes, so we recommend subscribing to the NMFTA newsletter and following their official LinkedIn page. These platforms provide timely information and are valuable for staying informed about industry developments.
