Reclassifications and Reweighs in Freight Shipping
By Bekah Tatem, Content Coordinator
Last Updated February 11, 2025
In this article, learn about:
How freight reclassifications and reweighs impact shipping costs
The 18 freight classifications and how they are determined
Best practices for preventing unexpected freight charges
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Freight shipping is a critical part of the supply chain, and understanding reclassifications and reweighs can help businesses avoid unnecessary costs. In this article, we’ll explore what these terms mean, when they occur, and how to address them effectively.
What are Reclassifications and Reweighs?
Reclassifications and reweighs occur when a shipment’s weight or density is miscalculated during the quoting process. Carriers inspect freight using precise dimension readers and scales. If the carrier’s findings differ from what is listed on the Bill of Lading (BOL), they may reclassify or reweigh the shipment, which can lead to changes in freight class and pricing.
Related Reading: LTL Shipping—What Is A Freight Quote?
Understanding Freight Classification
Freight classification is a fundamental aspect of the shipping industry, playing a crucial role in determining shipping costs and ensuring fair compensation for both shippers and carriers. Developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), the freight classification system is used to transport Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipments. This system categorizes freight into 18 different classes, ranging from Class 50 to Class 500, based on specific criteria such as density, liability, stowability, and handling. Understanding how to classify freight accurately can help businesses avoid unexpected charges and streamline their shipping processes.
How is Freight Class Determined?
Freight classification is based on four primary factors:
Density: The weight-to-volume ratio of the shipment.
Stowability: How easily the freight can be stored or stacked.
Handling: The level of difficulty involved in moving the shipment.
Liability: The risk of damage, theft, or perishability.
Understanding how these factors impact your shipment can help you avoid costly misclassifications.
How to Calculate Freight Density
Calculating freight density is a critical step in determining the correct freight class. To calculate density, you need to measure the dimensions of the shipment in inches (length, width, and height) and convert these measurements to cubic feet. The total cubic feet is then divided by the weight of the shipment in pounds. This calculation provides the density of the freight, which is a key factor in classifying it. Higher-density freight typically falls into a lower freight class, resulting in lower shipping costs, while lower-density freight is assigned a higher freight class, leading to higher shipping costs.
Related Reading: LTL Shipping—What Is Density?
What are the Different Freight Classifications?
There are 18 freight classifications, ranging from Class 50 to Class 500. These classifications are determined by the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system. Below is an overview of the different freight classes:
Freight Class | Weight Range Per Cubic Foot |
Class 50 | 50+ lbs |
Class 55 | 35 - 50 lbs |
Class 60 | 30 - 35 lbs |
Class 65 | 22.5 - 30 lbs |
Class 70 | 15 - 22.5 lbs |
Class 77.5 | 13.5 - 15 lbs |
Class 85 | 12 - 13.5 lbs |
Class 92.5 | 10.5 - 12 lbs |
Class 100 | 9 - 10.5 lbs |
Class 110 | 8 - 9 lbs |
Class 125 | 7 - 8 lbs |
Class 150 | 6 - 7 lbs |
Class 175 | 5 - 6 lbs |
Class 200 | 4 - 5 lbs |
Class 250 | 3 - 4 lbs |
Class 300 | 2 - 3 lbs |
Class 400 | 1 - 2 lbs |
Class 500 | Less than 1 lbs |
Using the Right NMFC Code
Every commodity has a specific freight class and a corresponding National Motor Freight Classification code. The NMFC code is essential for identifying the commodity within the 18 freight classes and ensuring accurate classification and shipping costs. Using an NMFC classification tool can simplify this process. By accurately identifying the NMFC code, you can ensure that your freight is correctly classified, avoiding potential disputes and unexpected shipping costs.
Related Reading: LTL Shipping—What Is An NMFC Number?
Why Freight Class Matters in Shipping
Reclassifications and reweighs can result in charges for a shipment going up either a small amount or a large amount, depending on how incorrect the original quoted classification or weight was. For example, if a shipment was quoted and shipped as a Class 175, but upon inspection, is found to actually be Class 250. This would cause charges to increase by several hundred dollars. In contrast, a shipment quoted and moved initially as a Class 70 but upon inspection is found to be a Class 85 can result in charges only going up a small amount.
Along the same lines, a shipment that, upon inspection, is found to have the correct density but an incorrect weight will result in a reweigh. Reweighs are often not as serious as a reclassification, provided that the new, corrected weight does not change the classification of the freight. However, if the weight is found to be far more than what was originally stated, even in spite of the class remaining the same, the price can go up.
Examples of Reclassifications
Here are some scenarios of how reclassifications occur:
Example 1: Dimensions of 40L x 48W x 75H with a weight of 850 lbs, resulting in a density of 10.20 and a classification of 92.0. However, upon inspection by the carrier, the shipment is found to be 42L x 49W x 82H with a weight of 850 lbs, resulting in a corrected density of 8.70 and a corrected classification of 100. In this instance, a small change in price from the carrier may occur or if a [FAK (Freight All Kinds)] is in place, no change would occur.
Example 2: Dimensions of 40L x 48W x 75H with a weight of 400 lbs, resulting in a density of 4.80 and a classification of 175. However, upon inspection by the carrier, the shipment is found to be 42L x 49W x 82H with a corrected weight of 325 lbs, resulting in a corrected density of 3.32 and a corrected classification of 250. In this instance, a change in the price of several hundred dollars from the carrier would be the result.
Examples of Reweighs
Reweighs are less complex but still impactful. Examples include:
Example 1: A shipment of two pallets, both having dimensions of 40 x 48 x 48 and a total combined weight of 1,365 lbs, resulting in a density of 12.79 and a classification of 85. However, upon inspection by the carrier, the shipment is found to actually weigh 1,590 lbs. While this will not change the class (new density of 14.90), the price of the shipment would tick up due to increased weight.
Example 2: A shipment of two pallets, both having dimensions of 40 x 48 x 48 and a total combined weight of 1,000 lbs, resulting in a density of 9.37 and a classification of 100. However, upon inspection by the carrier, the shipment is found to actually weigh 825 lbs, resulting in a corrected density of 7.73 and a corrected class of 125. This would be an instance where the dimensions do not change, but the change in weight causes the classification to jump a class and the price to increase.
Best Practices for Avoiding Reclassifications and Reweighs
Accurate Measurements: Ensure your shipment’s dimensions and weight are precise.
Understand Freight Class: Familiarize yourself with freight classification rules to avoid errors.
Communicate with Carriers: Work closely with carriers to clarify any discrepancies.
Use Freight Shipping Software: Leverage tools that help automate classification and documentation.
What if the Carrier Makes a Mistake?
If a shipment has been reweighed or reclassified and you believe the carrier's findings are incorrect, you can dispute the adjustment. However, the dispute process requires strong, well-documented evidence and can be time-consuming. To increase the chances of a successful claim, be prepared with detailed shipment records, including accurate weight and measurement documentation and other available evidence like photos and supporting invoices. Promptly communicate with the carrier and determine their dispute resolution process if needed.
Documentation Needed for a Dispute
You must provide clear and compelling evidence to successfully dispute a carrier's reclassification or reweigh. The following documentation can strengthen your case:
Shipping Tickets and Invoices: These documents confirm the shipment's specifications and pricing.
Product Specifications: Manufacturer details, weight, and dimensions of the commodity.
Photographic Evidence: Provide clear, high-resolution photos documenting the shipment at various stages. This could include images of the shipment being measured, with visible notations of dimensions, as well as photographs of the scale displaying the shipment’s weight alongside corresponding weight annotations. Additionally, include pictures of the freight itself, both packaged and unpackaged, along with any relevant catalog pages (print or online) that detail the item specifications. Comprehensive photographic documentation strengthens your dispute by offering undeniable visual proof.
Correspondence with Carrier: Any emails, notes, or documentation related to prior agreements or discrepancies.
By compiling this evidence and submitting it promptly, you improve your chances of overturning incorrect carrier assessments and ensuring accurate shipping costs.
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