2025 NMFC Class Changes: What Shippers Need to Know
In transportation, few topics spark more debate than freight classification. For decades, the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system has shaped how Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipments are rated and priced. Now, in 2025, this familiar system is undergoing one of its most significant updates in years.
For shippers and logistics managers alike, the changes mean more than just a new chart — they demand fresh strategies in data management, packaging, and carrier negotiations. If handled properly, this transition can yield cost savings. If neglected, it can drive up shipping expenses and create invoice headaches.
At PNG Logistics Co., our team is ready to guide you through every detail, ensuring you’re not only compliant but also more competitive than ever.
Why the NMFTA Is Making These Changes
The National Motor Freight Transportation Association (NMFTA) announced in March 2025 (see article NMFC 2025: Major LTL Freight Changes Ahead ) that it will expand and restructure the NMFC’s full-density scale, effective July 19, 2025. The core reasons:
✅ Simplify the classification process
✅ Improve accuracy of cost allocation
✅ Promote efficiency for shippers and carriers alike
Until now, certain commodities depended heavily on confusing item-specific breakpoints, sub-provisions, or single-class assignments, which often didn’t match how much space or care a shipment actually required in transit. This created gray areas for misclassification and disputes.
The new system aims to fix this by expanding the density scale from 11 to 13 breakpoints and shifting thousands of commodities — including sub-provision and single-class items — to a straightforward density-based model.
The New Density Scale — Side by Side
Here’s how the current and new full-density scale compare:
| Density From (pcf) | Density Up To (pcf) | Original Class | New Class (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | 400 | 400 |
| 1 | 2 | 300 | 300 |
| 2 | 4 | 250 | 250 |
| 4 | 6 | 175 | 175 |
| 6 | 8 | 125 | 125 |
| 8 | 10 | 100 | 100 |
| 10 | 12 | 92.5 | 92.5 |
| 12 | 15 | 85 | 85 |
| 15 | 22.5 | 70 | 70 |
| 22.5 | 30 | 65 | 65 |
| 30 | 35 | 60 | 60 |
| 35 | 50 | 60 | 55 |
| 50 | 50+ | 60 | 50 |
Who Benefits — And Who Might Pay More
A deeper look shows that shippers with dense, compact freight stand to gain the most. Those shipping lower-density or poorly packaged commodities may see costs rise.
Example: High-Density Freight
-
Freight at 40 pcf moves from Class 60 → Class 55 → ~5% savings
-
Freight at 50+ pcf shifts to Class 50 → ~10% savings
Example: Sub-Provision Items (like Boots, NMFC #28160)
| Density (pcf) | Current Class | New Class | Estimated Cost Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–1 | 200 | 400 | +97% |
| 1–2 | 200 | 300 | +49% |
| 2–4 | 200 | 250 | +24% |
| 4–6 | 200 | 175 | -12% |
| 6–8 | 125 | 125 | 0% |
| 8–10 | 125 | 100 | -19% |
| 10–12 | 125 | 92.5 | -24% |
| 12–15 | 125 | 85 | -29% |
| 15–22.5 | 125 | 70 | -38% |
| 22.5–30 | 125 | 65 | -42% |
| 30–35 | 125 | 60 | -45% |
| 35–50 | 125 | 55 | -47% |
| 50+ | 125 | 50 | -50% |
These examples highlight a simple truth: Efficiency and accuracy will be rewarded. Poor classification or sloppy packaging will cost more than ever.
How to Check Your NMFC Numbers — and Why It Matters
As you prepare for this shift, it’s essential to review each commodity you ship. A practical tool we recommend is GetClassification.com.
This free resource lets you check your current NMFC number and see whether it’s impacted by the 2025 docket changes. When you run a search, watch for this specific note:
“Cancel with Reference — New Item Full Density”
This means the old item code is being replaced with a purely density-driven classification. You must know your exact dimensions and weight to assign the correct class.
If you see this flag — or if you’re unsure how to apply the new scale — contact the PNG Logistics Co. Operations Support team immediately. Our specialists will help you:
✅ Identify the right new NMFC code
✅ Validate your shipment density
✅ Suggest packaging adjustments to avoid surprises
✅ Coordinate with our opperations team for smooth transition
👉 Use GetClassification.com as your lookup companion — and lean on PNG Logistics for hands-on guidance.
Timeline: When Does This Take Effect?
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Docket 2025-1 Released | January 30, 2025 |
| Final Adjustments Announced | Mid-2025 |
| New NMFC Rules Take Effect | July 19, 2025 |
What Should Shippers Do Now?
The sooner you plan, the better positioned you’ll be when rates and classes change mid-year. Here’s how to get ahead:
✅ 1. Audit Your Commodities
Run a list of all NMFC numbers you use. Check each at GetClassification.com and flag any with “Cancel with Reference — New Item Full Density.”
✅ 2. Calculate Density for Each Handling Unit ( performed automatically by MyPNGLC.com )
Verify actual weights and dimensions. Don’t guess — re-measure packaging if needed.
✅ 3. Optimize Packaging
Denser, tighter packaging will push you into a lower freight class and reduce cost. Work with your warehouse to improve how goods are palletized and wrapped.
✅ 4. Train Your Team
Ensure your shipping clerks, warehouse staff, and invoicing personnel understand the new scale and how to assign the correct class.
How PNG Logistics Co. Supports You at Every Step
The stakes are high, but so is the opportunity to come out ahead. At PNG Logistics Co., we provide:
✅ NMFC Classification Support — we check your codes, map them to the new scale, and maintain your commodity database.
✅ Customized Cost Impact Reports — compare your old vs. new class assignments and spot cost swings early.
✅ Packaging Consults — we help you find the right packaging mix to boost density and savings.
✅ Rate Negotiation — our carrier relations team works directly with your LTL providers to smooth out contract bumps.
✅ Training & Resources — we offer staff training so your team understands how to measure, classify, and quote correctly under the new rules.
Real-World Example: SMC³ Study Findings
According to a detailed SMC³ analysis, real-world LTL bills show that:
-
Densities 35–50 pcf benefit from ~5–10% lower rates
-
Densities below 4 pcf could jump dramatically (in some cases doubling if misclassified)
-
Single-class items switching to the full-density scale require exact weights/dimensions to avoid unexpected charges.
In short: precision pays off, and assumptions cost money.
This NMFC transition isn’t just paperwork — it’s a strategic opportunity to sharpen your operation, improve shipment planning, and safeguard profit margins.
Our Operations Team is already helping clients re-map their NMFC numbers, recalibrate packaging, and negotiate fair rates under the new rules. Don’t wait until July to find out you’ve been misclassified.
✅ Contact PNG Logistics Operations Support Now:
📞 717-626-1107 x 1
📧 operations@pnglc.com
🌐 www.pngworldwide.com
2025’s NMFC changes are a reminder that in transportation, the only constant is change. Companies that plan, measure, and partner wisely will see cost benefits and stronger carrier relationships. Those who wait or guess will pay the price — literally.
At PNG Logistics Co, we stand ready to make sure you’re in the winning camp.
👉 Check your NMFC numbers today at GetClassification.com
👉 Call us for customized help to navigate “Cancel with Reference — New Item Full Density” changes.
Together, we’ll turn a regulatory shake-up into a cost-saving advantage.
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