In plain English
LTL carriers check shipments with dock scales and dimensioning equipment. When they find a difference, they issue a corrected invoice, often with an added inspection fee.
The most common causes are a shipper estimating weight, leaving out packaging or pallet weight, or using the wrong class or NMFC item.
Why it matters when you ship
It is the leading reason an LTL invoice is higher than the quote. Weigh and measure the packed shipment, with its pallet, and write the numbers on the bill of lading.
Example
A shipper quotes 800 lb and class 70. The terminal scale reads 1,050 lb and the carrier reclasses to 85, so the final bill is higher.
Related terms
Learn more
Reweigh and reclass: common questions
Why did my LTL invoice increase after delivery?
Most often because the carrier weighed or measured the freight and found a different weight, size or class than the bill of lading stated.
Can I dispute a reclass?
Yes, with evidence such as scale tickets, photos and the packing list, but it is easier to get the numbers right before pickup.
Cite this page
Cite as: Transportli, “Reweigh and Reclass: Meaning in LTL Freight”, https://transportli.com/glossary/reweigh-and-reclass/, updated November 11, 2026.
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