In plain English
Lower classes (such as 50 or 55) are dense, durable freight that is cheap to move. Higher classes (such as 250 or 500) are light, bulky or fragile freight that is expensive to move. Most general freight falls between class 55 and 100.
For many goods, class is driven mainly by density, in pounds per cubic foot. A shipment that is large and light gets a higher class than a small, heavy one.
Why it matters when you ship
LTL carriers price by class, weight and distance. A wrong class on the bill of lading is the most common reason a quote changes after pickup.
What it looks like in our data
From our own tests of the same shipment at different classes. The cheapest quote barely moved, so comparing carriers matters more at higher classes.
Example
A pallet of boxed fittings that weighs 600 lb and takes 30 cubic feet has a density of 20 lb per cubic foot, which puts it in a lower class than a pallet of the same size weighing 200 lb.
Related terms
Learn more
Freight class: common questions
What freight class is most common?
Class 50 to 100 covers most general palletized freight. Light, bulky goods sit higher, and dense metal goods sit lower.
How do I find my freight class?
Measure and weigh the shipment to get its density, then check the NMFC or use a freight class calculator. Confirm with the carrier if in doubt.
Cite this page
Cite as: Transportli, “Freight Class: Meaning and How It Affects Price”, https://transportli.com/glossary/freight-class/, updated November 11, 2026.
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