NMCF changes, just in time for summer vacation! ☀️

Yo, Vendorville!

Summer is nearly upon us, and along with the requisite barbecuing, water slides, and snow cones, it’s time to take a look into the new NMFC data standards!

For the past several years, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) has been working on simplifying its National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) standards. With an effective date of July 19, 2025, the changes to NMFC data classification could have an immediate impact on your business.

Fortunately, Vendorville is here to help explain the new standards and how suppliers and carriers will be affected.

What Sort of Changes Are We Talking About?

The NMFTA has made numerous changes to the data standards for many different types of products. Reviewing these updates may seem as overwhelming as a crowded water park, especially when having to apply the changes to your business practices.

Big picture, however, you can expect the following:

A standardized density scale for LTL freight with no handling, stowability, or liability issues

Unique freight identifiers for products with special handling, stowability, or liability requirements

Updated and condensed product listings

Improvements to the NMFTA’s ClassIT tool

How will These Changes Affect Suppliers?

With the new, simplified classification process, vendors can expect:

🌻An easier identification of NMFC items and freight classes

🌻Lower density classes for heavier freight

🌻Class consolidation for freight with similar characteristics

🌻General changes to NMFC items, sub, and freight classes

How will These Changes Affect 3PLs and Carriers?

LTL carriers and 3PLs can expect the following:

☀️One standard density scale for LTL freight with no handling, stowability, or liability issues

☀️More instances where freight classes are determined by shipment density

☀️To need to obtain handling unit dimensions and weight from vendors to complete the BOL

How can Vendors and Carriers Prepare?

The NMFTA recommends that carriers prepare for the changes by bolstering their dimensioning capabilities and spreading the news about updates to other industry players. Suppliers, meanwhile, are recommended to learn to calculate density by handling unit dimensions (length, width, and height) and weight.

Both suppliers and carriers should make full use of the NMFTA’s freight identification and classification resources, which hopefully will make the process as easy and smooth as a gentle summer breeze.

Any further questions? Make sure to check out the official FAQ page for the 2025 NMFC changes!

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⭐ Rick’s Tips ⭐

“Understanding NMFC numbers can be essential for reducing chargebacks and fully taking charge of your logistics operations. Remember: The most important factor for freight classification is density, as higher-density items are typically considered to be cheaper to ship, while lower-density items are more costly.”

👋 Say Hi to the Team: Cameron Berry

What is your role in SupplierWiki?
I'm a Campaign Specialist on the team.

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I really enjoy going to the golf course to hit some golf balls on the range.

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I would choose Nassau because of the tropical weather and ocean views.

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A knife, a tent, and maybe some firewood.

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Transformers (the first one of course).

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I am a former collegiate baseball player.

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SupplierWiki