1. What is Freight Class?

Freight class is a standardized classification system used in the transportation industry to categorize different types of cargo. It's based on factors like density, stowability, handling, and liability, with density being the primary determinant for most shipments.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses density (pounds per cubic foot) to determine the appropriate freight class:

Where:

• Density — Weight per unit volume (pounds per cubic foot)
• Freight Class — Ranges from 50 (highest density) to 500 (lowest density)

Explanation: Higher density items get lower (better) freight classes because they're easier to transport and take up less space relative to their weight.

3. Importance of Freight Class

Details: Freight class directly impacts shipping costs. Lower classes (50-85) typically cost less to ship than higher classes (100-500). Accurate classification helps avoid reclassification fees and ensures proper pricing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the density in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³). The density is calculated by dividing the weight (in pounds) by the volume (in cubic feet) of your shipment.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I calculate density?
A: Measure your shipment's dimensions (length × width × height in inches), divide by 1728 to get cubic feet, then divide weight (lbs) by this volume.

Q2: What if my item has special handling requirements?
A: The calculator provides the density-based class. Additional factors may adjust the final class assigned by your carrier.

Q3: Are there standard freight class ranges?
A: Yes, common classes are 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 77.5, 85, 92.5, 100, 110, 125, 150, 175, 200, 250, 300, 400, and 500.

Q4: What's the most common freight class?
A: Class 70 is often considered the "standard" freight class for many commodities.

Q5: Can freight class affect transit time?
A: Indirectly - lower classes may get priority as they're typically more profitable for carriers.