The 2025 NMFC Changes Explained: The 13-Tier Density Scale
Updated October 14, 2026
NMFC Docket 2025-1 took effect on July 19, 2025. It was the biggest change to LTL freight classification in decades, and it is still catching shippers out on invoices.
What changed
- Many commodity-specific NMFC items were folded into density-based classification.
- The density scale grew from 11 tiers to 13.
- Classes 50 and 55 can now be reached on density alone, for 35 PCF and above.
- Commodities with handling, stowability or liability concerns keep specific treatment.
The new scale
| Density (PCF) | Class |
|---|---|
| Under 1 | 400 |
| 1 to under 2 | 300 |
| 2 to under 4 | 250 |
| 4 to under 6 | 175 |
| 6 to under 8 | 125 |
| 8 to under 10 | 100 |
| 10 to under 12 | 92.5 |
| 12 to under 15 | 85 |
| 15 to under 22.5 | 70 |
| 22.5 to under 30 | 65 |
| 30 to under 35 | 60 |
| 35 to under 50 | 55 |
| 50 or more | 50 |
What to do
- Re-check the class on your top shipping lanes and SKUs. Old classes saved in your TMS may be wrong.
- Measure and weigh accurately. With density deciding the class, a few inches can move you a tier.
- Look for restacking wins. Dense, well-built pallets can now reach class 50 or 55.
- Run your shipment list through the bulk calculator to find rows whose class changed.
Always confirm specific commodities against the current NMFC through your carrier or broker.
Check your own shipments