On July 19, 2025, the National Motor Freight Classification® (NMFC®) system will undergo one of its most significant overhauls in years—redefining how thousands of commodities are classified and billed in the LTL freight world.

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If you're a shipper, don’t stress. These changes are designed to simplify the classification process, reduce ambiguity, and create a more transparent and predictable shipping environment.

Here’s what’s changing—and how to prepare.

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🧭 What’s Changing?

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1. A New, Unified 13-Tier Density Scale

NMFTA is rolling out a standard 13-tier density scale across many NMFC items. Instead of relying on fixed class numbers for certain commodities, freight class will now depend on density (pounds per cubic foot).

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Examples:

• Less than 1 PCF → Class 400
  
• 1–2 PCF → Class 300
  
• 35–50 PCF → Class 55
  
• 50+ PCF → Class 50
  
  

This change provides greater consistency and accuracy, especially for shippers who may have struggled with outdated or unclear class rules in the past.

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2. Consolidation of Commodity Codes

Many product groups are being simplified and consolidated:

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• 42 aluminum-related items → merged into a single “Aluminum Group”
  
• 20 alloy items → combined under one item
  
• 199 items now carry a “🛈” symbol for handling, stowability, or liability concerns (without changing their class)
  
  

This restructuring helps reduce confusion around which NMFC code to use and streamlines classification for everyday shipping needs.

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3. Clearer Item Formats, Fewer Notes

Legacy item-and-note combos are being phased out. They’re being replaced by “viz.” format items—single-line, clearly enumerated entries that list all included articles.

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This format makes it easier to identify the right classification without digging through layers of notes or cross-references.

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📌 Why This Matters

These changes are not just administrative—they affect:

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• Cost: Low-density freight may fall into higher classes and cost more if not packed efficiently.
  
• Accuracy: Incorrect or missing data on your BOL (e.g., weight, dimensions) can trigger audits or adjustment charges.
  
• Workflow: Teams need to adjust how they classify, measure, and document freight.
  
  

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✅ 7 Steps Shippers Should Take

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1. Audit Your Freight Classes

Review which NMFC codes you currently use. Many are being updated, merged, or retired.
Use NMFTA’s free lookup tool or refer to Public Docket 2025-1.

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2. Understand the New Density-Based Scale

Your freight class will now be determined by density.
Make sure your team knows how this impacts quoting and pricing.

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3. Capture Dimensions & Weight Accurately

Make it standard practice to record length, width, height, and weight of each handling unit.
This is essential under the new rules—and helps prevent disputes with carriers.

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4. Reevaluate Packaging

More compact, denser freight = better classification = lower costs.
Under-filled or oversized cartons may trigger higher class ratings (like Class 400).

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5. Talk to Your Carriers

Ask your LTL partners how they’re adjusting to the new NMFC structure.
They may also offer guidance on packaging, density, and class selection.

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6. Train Your Team

Update your shipping SOPs to reflect the new rules.
Make sure everyone from quoting to warehouse operations knows what’s changing.

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7. Leverage NMFTA Resources

• nmfcchanges.com
  
• Webinars & Events
  
• ClassIT+™ for real-time classification data
  
  

🚚 How Mothership Makes It Even Easier

Mothership is already built to help shippers stay compliant and efficient under the new NMFC model.

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• No guesswork on data entry: Weight and dimensions are required at checkout, so you’re always capturing what you need to determine density.
  
• NMFC code field is optional—but supported: You can easily enter a code if you know it. If added, it will automatically appear on your Bill of Lading, helping mitigate carrier audit risks.
  
• Auto-generated BOLs: Everything you enter flows seamlessly into the correct documentation—no extra steps needed.
  
• Flexible and future-ready: As regulations evolve, Mothership evolves with them. You're never left scrambling to catch up.
  
  

🧘 Final Thoughts

This NMFC update may seem big—but it’s a step toward a simpler, more consistent shipping process. Less confusion, clearer rules, and more predictable pricing are all wins for shippers.Take action now to stay ahead:

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• Review your freight classes
  
• Start capturing dimensions and weight on every shipment
  
• Leverage tools like Mothership to automate and simplify compliance
  
  

Have questions or need help getting ready? We’re here for you.

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