Free Tool
Calculate cubic feet, density (PCF), and estimated NMFC freight class for any LTL shipment. Multi-pallet support. No signup required.
Step 1
The Formula
Density determines your freight class, which determines your LTL rate. Higher density = lower class = lower cost per pound.
Talk to an operator →Reference
Density-based classes for shipments without specific NMFC item numbers. For commodities with assigned NMFC numbers, the published class always takes precedence.
| Density (PCF) | Estimated Class | Typical Commodities |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 1 | 400 | Ping-pong balls, bouquets of flowers |
| 1 to less than 2 | 300 | Deer antlers, gold leaf |
| 2 to less than 4 | 250 | Bamboo furniture, mattresses |
| 4 to less than 6 | 175 | Clothing, couches, stuffed furniture |
| 6 to less than 8 | 125 | Small household appliances |
| 8 to less than 10 | 100 | Wine cases, caskets |
| 10 to less than 12 | 92.5 | Computers, monitors, refrigerators |
| 12 to less than 15 | 85 | Crated machinery, cast iron stoves |
| 15 to less than 22.5 | 70 | Car accessories, food items, books |
| 22.5 to less than 30 | 65 | Car parts, bottled beverages |
| 30 or greater | 60 | Car parts, steel cables, bricks |
Why Density Matters
Freight density describes how much space your shipment occupies relative to its weight. Carriers use it to determine your NMFC freight class, which directly drives your LTL rate.
Misclassify a shipment and the carrier will reweigh and reclass it, often charging you more after the fact plus a reclassification fee. Get density right up front.
You've got the density. Now get a managed transportation partner that turns it into the right rate, the right class, and the right service.