Freight class calculator
In less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, price depends on freight class, and class depends mostly on density: weight divided by volume, in pounds per cubic foot. Declaring too low a class on your bill of lading usually ends in a reclass charge after delivery.
Density
9.38 lb/ft³
Estimated class
100
Volume
53.3 ft³
Total weight
500 lb
| Density (lb/ft³) | Class |
|---|---|
| ≥ 50 | 50 |
| 35 – 50 | 55 |
| 30 – 35 | 60 |
| 22.5 – 30 | 65 |
| 15 – 22.5 | 70 |
| 12 – 15 | 85 |
| 10 – 12 | 92.5 |
| 8 – 10 | 100 |
| 6 – 8 | 125 |
| 4 – 6 | 175 |
| 2 – 4 | 250 |
| 1 – 2 | 300 |
| 0 – 1 | 400 |
How this estimate works
We apply the standardised density scale the NMFTA adopted in 2025. Measure the whole pallet, wood and wrap included, at its tallest and widest points. Some commodities have their own classification that overrides density; if in doubt, ask your carrier for your item’s NMFC class.
Many Canadian carriers price on weight and space rather than class; density is still the best predictor of price under either system.