Big changes are coming to the world of freight shipping. Starting in July 2025, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) will implement updates to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system that directly impact how Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipments are classified—and priced.
If your business relies on LTL freight, it’s important to understand what’s changing, how it could affect your shipping costs, and what steps you can take now to stay ahead. This guide breaks down the key updates and what they mean for shippers.
The NMFC is a standardized system that assigns a freight class to different types of cargo. Carriers use this system to calculate shipping rates. That’s why changes to the NMFC system matter—especially when they affect how your freight is classified and priced.
The NMFTA’s 2025 updates are designed to simplify and modernize the classification process while making rates more accurately reflect the characteristics of your freight.
Most commodities without special handling or liability concerns will now be classified primarily based on density—the ratio of weight to volume.
The density scale will expand from 11 to 13 subcategories, introducing new class levels (like 50 and 55) for more precise classifications.
In general, denser shipments will receive lower freight classes and therefore lower shipping costs. Lighter, bulkier freight will move to higher classes.
If your freight has unusual handling, stowability, or liability needs, it will now receive a unique identifier instead of being grouped under general NMFC codes. This should improve pricing accuracy and transparency for more complex shipments.
The NMFC database is being cleaned up—redundant or outdated listings will be removed. This change will make it easier for shippers to find the correct classifications, especially when using digital tools.
To support the changes, NMFTA will update its ClassIT online tool, which helps users look up and manage NMFC classifications more efficiently.
The switch to a density-based model will affect different types of freight in different ways:
Low-density shipments (under 4 lbs per cubic foot) may face higher shipping rates due to the space they consume relative to their weight.
Higher-density freight (over 8 lbs per cubic foot) could see lower rates, since it uses space more efficiently.
Mid-range densities (between 4 and 6 lbs per cubic foot) may not see much change.
These adjustments mean your shipping costs might go up, down, or stay the same—depending on what and how you ship.
To avoid surprises and stay compliant with the new NMFC guidelines, consider these steps:
Review your current classifications: Identify which of your shipments could be affected by the switch to density-based classes.
Measure accurately: Invest in reliable tools like dimensioners and calibrated scales to ensure accurate weight and volume data.
Educate your team: Make sure your shipping, warehouse, and logistics staff understand how to calculate density and classify freight correctly.
Talk to your carriers and 3PLs: Open communication with your logistics partners can help you prepare and adjust strategies ahead of time.
The NMFC changes coming in July 2025 mark a shift toward a more modern, density-driven approach to freight classification. While the new system could benefit many shippers with more accurate pricing, it will also require adjustments to current practices.
Now is the time to review your shipping data, train your teams, and communicate with partners so you can navigate the transition smoothly—and continue to ship freight confidently and cost-effectively.