GUIDE深度 · Deep dive
Freight Class vs Density
Density is the main input to LTL freight class: more pounds per cubic foot usually means a lower class and cheaper rate. Material, packaging, fragility and handling can still change the final class.
Calculate density
Density = total weight in pounds divided by cubic feet; volume = length times width times height in inches divided by 1,728.
Include pallets and non-compressible gaps, not just the goods.
Density to class
Common bands: 12 to 13.5 pcf maps to 92.5; 10.5 to 12 to 100; 9 to 10.5 to 110; 8 to 9 to 125.
This is a common mapping; the NMFC item and carrier confirm the final class.
FAQ
What class is 12.5 density?
It falls in the 12 to 13.5 band, commonly class 92.5.
Does a higher class cost more?
Usually yes, but minimum charges, accessorials and lanes also affect the total.