Zenmul
On July 19, 2025, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association put NMFC Docket 2025-1 into effect. It changed how a large share of LTL freight is classified. If your freight class was set years ago and never rechecked, a reclass on a recent bill may come from this change rather than from a carrier mistake.
What changed
- A 13 class density scale. The full density scale went from 11 subprovisions to 13, so classes are set in finer steps of pounds per cubic foot.
- Many items moved to density. Items that carried one fixed class, or an older density scale, were moved to the 13 class scale when handling, stowability and liability did not call for something else.
- Item numbers were consolidated. Many generic item descriptions were cancelled or redefined, and more cancellations followed in later dockets.
Why it matters for reclass charges
When an item has one fixed class, a small measuring difference rarely changes the bill. On a density scale, it can. If the carrier measures your pallet a few inches taller than you did, the density drops, and the class can move up a step.
It also means the class printed on an old bill of lading template may simply be out of date. In that case the carrier's reclass may be correct, and the fix is on your side.
What to check on a reclassed bill
1. Is your item number still current?
Look up the NMFC item number on your bill of lading with NMFTA's tools. If the item was cancelled or moved to the density scale, update your bill of lading before the next shipment.
2. Which class does your measured density give?
Measure the full handling unit, pallet included, and work out the density: length times width times height in inches, divided by 1,728, gives cubic feet. Divide the weight by that. Then check which class that density falls in under the current scale.
3. Do the carrier's measurements hold up?
Ask for the inspection record with the dimensions the carrier used. Compare them with yours. If the carrier's height or length is clearly off, or there is no record at all, the reclass is worth contesting.
4. Does your rate agreement change the answer?
If you ship under a freight all kinds (FAK) agreement, a move between classes inside its range may not change the price at all. Check that the corrected bill still applies it.
Keep a short record for every shipment
Since density decides the class, the dimensions and weight you record at pickup are now your main evidence. Keep the pallet measurements, the scale reading, and one photo of the loaded pallet with a tape measure in view.
If you are not sure whether a reclass came from the new rules or from a carrier error, Zenmul checks each bill and tells you which, with a dispute letter for every bill worth contesting. You decide what to send, and you send it under your own name.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Freight classification is set by the NMFC and your carrier's rules, so check the current item for your commodity.