What is Freight Class 85?

Freight Class 85 plays a key role in determining shipping costs for various items, especially for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. In this guide, we’ll explain what Freight Class 85 is, how it’s calculated, and why it matters for your shipping needs. Whether you’re shipping automotive parts or other goods, understanding this classification can help you save money and avoid costly mistakes. Let’s dive in and make freight class calculations simpler for you!

What is Freight Class in LTL Shipping?

In Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping, freight class plays a key role in determining how much you’ll pay to ship your car or other goods. Freight class is a system used to categorize shipments based on four main factors: density, stowability, ease of handling, and liability. This classification helps shipping companies decide how much space your cargo will take up in the truck and how easy or difficult it will be to handle. The more efficient your cargo is to ship, the less you'll pay for shipping.

NMFC Codes and the Classification System

The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system is used to assign freight classes. Each item shipped is assigned an NMFC code, which represents its class. These codes help define how your freight is categorized based on the characteristics of your shipment. The classification scale ranges from Class 50 to Class 500, with Class 50 representing the least expensive (and densest) items, and Class 500 being the most expensive (and least dense) items.

For example, a dense, compact car part that takes up little space will likely fall under a lower class and cost less to ship. On the other hand, if you're shipping something larger, bulkier, or more fragile, it will likely be assigned a higher class, leading to a higher shipping cost.

The freight class also takes into account the risk involved in transporting the items. High-risk or fragile items are given a higher class because they might require more care during handling.

What Does Freight Class 85 Mean?

Freight Class 85 is a specific category within the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, commonly applied to shipments that have certain characteristics. If you're shipping a car part or vehicle-related equipment, understanding Freight Class 85 can help you better estimate shipping costs and avoid surprises when you receive your bill.

Characteristics of Class 85 Shipments

Freight Class 85 typically includes items that have a moderate density and are somewhat easy to handle. These items are not as dense as those in lower classes (like Class 50 or 55), but they aren’t as bulky or fragile as items in higher classes (like Class 100 or 150). Here’s a breakdown of the key characteristics of Freight Class 85 shipments:

1. Density: Shipments in Class 85 generally have a moderate density, meaning they aren’t excessively light or heavy compared to their size. For example, an auto part that’s somewhat heavy but not bulky might fall into this class. The density is calculated by dividing the weight of the shipment by its volume, and class 85 usually represents goods that fall into a middle ground.

2. Stowability: Items in this class are typically easy to store within the truck without wasting too much space. They may be irregularly shaped but are still stowable in a way that doesn’t require excessive handling or special loading techniques.

3. Ease of Handling: Class 85 shipments tend to be easy to handle. They might require some care when loading or unloading, but they won’t need any special equipment or handling procedures. For example, parts of a car or standard automotive equipment may require some caution, but they don’t pose a risk of damage during transport.

4. Liability: The liability associated with Class 85 freight is moderate. The items are generally not extremely valuable or fragile, but they still may have a certain degree of risk if mishandled. For example, an automotive tool or part in this class might be moderately priced and could get damaged if handled improperly, but it won’t cause a major loss.

Factors That Determine Freight Class

When shipping goods, especially in Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipments, the freight class plays a major role in determining the shipping cost. Understanding what factors determine freight class can help you choose the best way to ship and avoid unexpected charges. The four primary factors that affect freight class are density, stowability, handling, and liability.

1. Density

Density is one of the most significant factors in determining freight class. It is calculated by dividing the weight of the shipment by its volume. In simple terms, the more tightly packed and heavy the shipment is for its size, the lower the class it will fall under. A high-density item takes up less space in the truck, making it more cost-efficient to ship.

For example, if you're shipping a compact, dense car part, it will have a higher density and a lower freight class (resulting in a cheaper shipping cost). On the other hand, lighter and bulkier items take up more space in the truck and are assigned a higher freight class, which leads to higher shipping fees.

2. Stowability

Stowability refers to how easily the item can be loaded and stored in a truck. If an item is irregularly shaped, difficult to stack, or requires special care when loading, it may be assigned a higher class. This is because these items can’t be packed efficiently, which leads to wasted space in the truck.

For instance, if you're shipping a bulky item like an oversized auto part or an oddly shaped vehicle accessory, it will likely have a lower stowability. This means that more space in the truck will be required, making it more costly to ship. On the other hand, smaller or neatly packed items that fit well with other freight are assigned a lower class, making them cheaper to ship.

3. Handling

The ease with which an item can be handled during the shipping process is another factor that determines freight class. Items that require special equipment or careful handling, such as fragile parts or vehicles, are assigned a higher class. For example, a car engine or delicate transmission might require special handling to prevent damage, so it would be categorized under a higher class.

Alternatively, items that are easy to load, unload, and transport without special precautions or equipment will likely fall into a lower freight class, which can lower the shipping cost. The easier the item is to handle, the more affordable it is to ship.

4. Liability

Liability refers to the risk involved in transporting the goods. The higher the risk of damage or loss, the higher the freight class. For example, a high-value or fragile car part with a risk of being damaged during transport would be assigned a higher freight class. Items that are of low value or less prone to damage, like standard car tires, will have lower liability and, therefore, a lower class.

Items that are hazardous, valuable, or easily breakable are more expensive to insure and transport. As a result, they require a higher freight class due to the increased liability associated with shipping them. On the other hand, low-risk items are cheaper to transport because they are less likely to result in loss or damage during shipping.

How to Calculate Freight Class

Calculating freight class is a crucial step in understanding how much you'll pay for shipping, especially when using Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping. Freight class is determined by several factors, including density, stowability, handling, and liability. Knowing how to calculate freight class can help you make informed decisions and avoid overpaying for shipping costs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating your freight class:

Step 1: Measure the Dimensions of Your Shipment

The first step in calculating freight class is to measure your shipment’s dimensions. You’ll need to know the length, width, and height of the item. Make sure to measure accurately because the volume (or cubic feet) is essential for calculating density.

For example, if you're shipping a car part or vehicle accessory, measure the overall size of the package, including any packaging or protective materials around the item.

Step 2: Weigh Your Shipment

Next, weigh the item or package. You can use a scale to get the exact weight. For freight class calculation, it’s important to get the total weight of the shipment, including packaging, since the overall weight affects the density.

Let’s say you’re shipping a car engine, and the weight is 150 lbs, plus packaging that weighs 10 lbs. Your total weight would be 160 lbs.

Step 3: Calculate the Density

Now, calculate the density of your shipment. The density is calculated by dividing the total weight of the shipment by its volume.

The formula is:

Density=Weight (lbs)Volume (cubic feet)\text{Density} = \frac{\text{Weight (lbs)}}{\text{Volume (cubic feet)}}Density=Volume (cubic feet)Weight (lbs)​

For instance, if your car part package has dimensions of 3 feet by 2 feet by 1 foot (6 cubic feet) and weighs 160 lbs, the density would be:

Density=1606=26.67 lbs/cubic foot\text{Density} = \frac{160}{6} = 26.67 \text{ lbs/cubic foot}Density=6160​=26.67 lbs/cubic foot

Step 4: Match the Density to Freight Class

Once you have the density, you can match it to a freight class. The freight class is determined using the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, which assigns a class number based on density and other factors like stowability, handling, and liability.

Here’s a general idea of the density ranges and their corresponding classes:

• Class 50: 50–60 lbs per cubic foot (most dense and least expensive to ship)
• Class 55: 35–50 lbs per cubic foot
• Class 60: 30–35 lbs per cubic foot
• Class 70: 22.5–30 lbs per cubic foot
• Class 85: 15–22.5 lbs per cubic foot
• Class 100: 12–15 lbs per cubic foot
• Class 150 and higher: Below 12 lbs per cubic foot (least dense and most expensive to ship)

Based on the earlier example, with a density of 26.67 lbs/cubic foot, the shipment would likely fall into Class 70.

Step 5: Verify Other Factors (Stowability, Handling, and Liability)

While density is a significant factor, you also need to consider stowability, handling, and liability. If your shipment is fragile, hard to store, or poses a high risk, you may need to adjust the freight class.

For instance, if the car part you're shipping is fragile or requires special handling, it may be assigned a higher class than what the density alone would suggest. Similarly, if the item is particularly valuable or easily damaged, the liability will increase, potentially raising the freight class.

Step 6: Use Freight Class Tools and Resources

To make the process easier, there are several online tools and resources that can help you determine the correct freight class. Freight carriers, such as UPS Freight or FedEx, often provide online calculators where you can input your shipment’s details, and they’ll calculate the freight class for you.

You can also consult the NMFC database, which lists all the NMFC codes and the corresponding freight classes for various types of goods. Some freight carriers even offer customer service or online chat support to assist you in determining the right class.

Why Freight Class Matters for Shipping Costs

Freight class plays a vital role in determining the cost of shipping, particularly when using Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) services. It’s directly linked to the shipping rates you’ll pay. Understanding why freight class matters can help you make more informed decisions about your shipments and potentially save money. Let’s dive into the relationship between freight class and shipping rates, and why it’s so important.

The Impact of Freight Class on Shipping Rates

The freight class of your shipment affects the overall cost of shipping because it determines how much space and handling your goods will require during transport. The class is based on several factors, including the density, stowability, handling, and liability of the item being shipped. The higher the class, the more expensive the shipping cost. Here’s how each factor plays a role in shaping the shipping rates:

1. Density and Volume
   Density is one of the most critical factors in determining freight class. Shipments with higher density take up less space in the truck and are more efficient to ship, leading to lower costs. On the other hand, low-density shipments, which are bulky but lightweight, take up more space in the truck, making them less efficient and more expensive to transport.

   For example, shipping a dense car part like an engine will usually result in a lower freight class (and cheaper rate) compared to shipping a large, bulky but light item like a car seat or bumper, which would fall under a higher class and incur a higher shipping rate.

2. Stowability and Space Optimization
   Stowability refers to how well an item fits in the truck. If an item is easy to stack and doesn’t take up excessive space, it can be shipped more efficiently, reducing the overall shipping cost. Conversely, items that are hard to stow, such as irregularly shaped or oversized objects, require more space and special handling, which increases the shipping cost.

   For instance, shipping a neatly packed bundle of car parts is easier and cheaper than shipping several large, bulky items that can’t be stacked properly, which will increase the freight class and the shipping price.

3. Handling and Risk
   If an item is difficult to handle or is fragile, it will likely be assigned a higher freight class due to the increased labor and special care required during transport. Items with higher liability (i.e., those that are valuable, fragile, or hazardous) also fall under a higher class, leading to higher shipping rates.

   For example, if you're shipping a fragile vehicle accessory that needs extra protection, it may require special packaging or additional handling during transit. This increases the risk, which in turn raises the freight class and shipping cost.

4. Liability
   The liability factor plays an important role in the final shipping cost. Higher-value or more fragile goods typically require higher insurance costs to cover potential loss or damage. This increased risk is factored into the freight class, which directly impacts the shipping price. If the item being shipped is high-value, like a luxury vehicle part, the freight class will be higher due to the added risk, making it more expensive to ship.

   In contrast, lower-value, less fragile items that carry little risk are usually assigned a lower freight class, leading to a lower cost to ship.

How Freight Class Affects Different Types of Shipments

Different types of shipments have varying freight classes depending on their characteristics. For example:

• Heavy and compact items (low class): Items like dense car parts, such as engines or transmissions, usually have a low freight class because they are heavy for their size and easy to stow and handle. This results in a lower shipping cost.
• Light and bulky items (high class): Large but lightweight items, such as bumpers or body panels, often have a higher freight class due to their bulk and lower density, which takes up more space in the truck.
• Fragile or high-risk items (higher class): Items like glass or electronic parts are more likely to get damaged, increasing their liability. These items are assigned a higher freight class, raising the shipping cost.

Why Understanding Freight Class Saves You Money

By understanding freight class and its relationship to shipping costs, you can make more strategic decisions about packaging, shipping methods, and handling to keep costs low. For example, you might decide to consolidate multiple small parts into a single shipment to improve density and lower the class, which can reduce the shipping cost.

Additionally, choosing items that are easier to handle and stow will naturally result in lower freight classes and, therefore, more affordable shipping rates. Knowing the freight class of your shipment beforehand can also help you avoid surprise charges from your carrier, as they’ll apply the correct classification, and you can better estimate your costs.

Common Mistakes When Assigning Freight Class

Assigning the correct freight class is a critical step in ensuring that your shipping costs are accurate and fair. However, many people, especially those new to shipping, make mistakes when determining freight class. These errors can lead to unexpected costs, delays, or even damage to your reputation with carriers. Here are some of the most common mistakes when assigning freight class and how to avoid them:

1. Incorrect Weight and Measurement Calculations

One of the most common mistakes when assigning freight class is providing inaccurate weight or dimensional measurements. Freight class is heavily influenced by both the weight and volume of the shipment, so any mistake in these calculations can result in the wrong class and higher-than-expected shipping fees.

How to Avoid This Mistake: Always measure the length, width, and height of your shipment accurately, including any packaging. Double-check the weight with a scale that can handle the total weight of the item and packaging. Avoid estimating and ensure that you account for all parts of the shipment to avoid discrepancies.

For example, if you're shipping multiple small car parts in one box, be sure to weigh and measure the entire shipment, not just individual items.

2. Neglecting to Factor in Stowability

Stowability refers to how easily an item can be stored or packed in a truck. Items that are hard to stow, such as irregularly shaped objects, may require more space and special handling, which can increase the freight class. However, some shippers mistakenly assume that only the size and weight matter, forgetting to consider how easily the item can be packed and transported.

How to Avoid This Mistake: Always assess how your items will fit in the truck. Items that can be stacked efficiently and don’t require special care should be assigned a lower freight class, while those that are difficult to stow or handle should be assigned a higher class.

For instance, shipping a vehicle door or a bulky bumper might require more space than anticipated, which could affect the freight class. Keep this in mind to avoid an incorrect classification.

3. Overlooking Special Handling Needs

Some items require special handling during shipping, either because they are fragile, hazardous, or need extra protection to avoid damage. Failing to account for the need for special handling can result in assigning the wrong freight class, leading to shipping delays, increased costs, or even damage to the goods.

How to Avoid This Mistake: If your items are fragile, hazardous, or require additional care, you must take these factors into account when determining freight class. Items like car batteries, for example, are classified under a higher freight class due to their potential danger, and car parts that are delicate, like mirrors or glass, may also require special handling.

Be honest about the handling needs of your shipment and assign the correct class based on this requirement. When in doubt, consult your carrier for clarification on special handling rules.

4. Misunderstanding Density vs. Volume

Many shippers confuse density with volume, which can lead to errors in freight class assignment. Density refers to the weight of the item relative to its size (weight per cubic foot), while volume refers to the total space the item takes up in the truck. These two factors are interconnected but distinct. A lightweight item with a large volume will have a higher class, even if it doesn’t weigh much.

How to Avoid This Mistake: When calculating density, make sure you’re dividing the correct weight by the actual volume (not just the size). Remember, the volume should include all parts of the shipment, including packaging. If you’re shipping multiple items that take up a lot of space but aren’t very heavy, you may be assigning an incorrect class if you only look at the weight and not the overall volume.

5. Ignoring Liability or Risk Factors

The liability of an item refers to the potential risk involved in shipping it. Fragile, valuable, or hazardous items carry higher liability, and thus a higher freight class. However, many shippers overlook the importance of risk when determining the freight class. This oversight could result in an underestimation of shipping costs and potential complications if something goes wrong during transport.

How to Avoid This Mistake: Always factor in the value and fragility of your goods when assigning freight class. For example, shipping a high-end automotive part, like a luxury car mirror or an expensive engine component, should account for the liability risk, and it will likely need to be classified at a higher class due to its value and potential for damage.

6. Failing to Recheck Freight Class When Modifying Shipments

Sometimes, shipments change after they are initially packed and classified. For example, additional items might be added to a shipment, or the packaging might be altered to better protect the goods. These changes can affect the shipment’s weight, size, stowability, and handling requirements, potentially altering the freight class.

How to Avoid This Mistake: Always recheck the freight class if you make any changes to your shipment. If you add new items, change packaging, or alter the stowability in any way, reassess the classification to ensure it’s still accurate.

7. Not Using the Right Freight Class Resources

The freight class system can be complex, and not using the correct tools or resources can result in mistakes when assigning freight class. Some shippers rely on outdated information or make assumptions without consulting the proper guides.

How to Avoid This Mistake: Use the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system or other online tools provided by carriers to look up the correct freight class for your items. Carriers often provide detailed classifications for various goods, and using these resources ensures you don’t assign the wrong class. Don’t rely on assumptions—double-check with carriers when necessary.

Tools for Simplifying Freight Class Calculations

Calculating freight class can be a complex and confusing task, especially for those new to shipping or those working with numerous different shipments. However, there are several tools and resources available that can simplify the process, ensuring that you assign the correct freight class to your shipment every time. Here are some of the most helpful tools and strategies for simplifying freight class calculations:

1. National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) Database

The NMFC is the official classification system used in the U.S. for determining freight class. It provides a comprehensive guide to the freight class for thousands of different types of goods based on characteristics like density, stowability, handling, and liability. The NMFC assigns each product a unique code, known as an NMFC code, which corresponds to a specific freight class.

How It Helps: The NMFC database is the gold standard for determining freight class. By referencing the NMFC code for your shipment, you can be confident that you're using the correct classification. It's an essential tool for any shipper, whether you’re sending auto parts, household goods, or industrial equipment.

How to Use It: You can access the NMFC codes online or through your carrier’s website. Many shipping providers have tools that allow you to search for specific products or categories to quickly find the correct code and freight class. Some freight companies also offer customer service support to help you navigate the system if you're unsure about your specific items.

2. Freight Class Calculators and Online Tools

Several online freight class calculators simplify the process of determining freight class by automating the calculations based on your shipment's details. These tools typically ask you to enter key information about your shipment, such as the item’s weight, dimensions, and packaging details, and then automatically assign the correct freight class.

How It Helps: Freight class calculators take the guesswork out of the equation, ensuring you get the right class without manually referencing the NMFC system. These tools can help you calculate the correct class quickly and accurately, reducing the risk of errors.

How to Use It: Many major carriers, such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL, provide freight class calculators on their websites. These tools are often free to use, and they can help you make better decisions when determining the correct class. Just be sure to enter accurate details to get the most reliable results.

3. Carrier and Third-Party Freight Classification Tools

Many carriers and third-party logistics companies offer their own freight class classification tools to streamline the process. These tools often integrate with other shipping and logistics software, allowing for seamless management of your entire shipment process. Some companies offer personalized classification services where experts assist with determining the freight class based on your specific needs.

How It Helps: These tools are typically more tailored to the specific needs of your shipment. They may provide more accurate results by factoring in special handling needs, stowability, and other details that go beyond basic weight and size.

How to Use It: Check with your carrier or third-party logistics provider to see if they offer freight class tools. For example, if you work with a company that specializes in auto parts shipping, they may offer specialized tools that help you assign the correct freight class based on the unique characteristics of automotive shipments. These tools may also integrate with your invoicing or billing systems, ensuring that the correct freight class is used from the start.

4. Shipping Software and Management Platforms

Shipping software and management platforms are another powerful tool for simplifying freight class calculations. These platforms, like ShipEngine, Easyship, and FreightPOP, provide a centralized system for managing all aspects of your shipments. Many of these platforms come with built-in freight class calculators that automatically classify your items based on input data.

How It Helps: These platforms streamline the shipping process by offering real-time updates on your shipments and ensuring that you always use the right freight class for each order. By integrating with various carriers and logistics services, these platforms simplify rate comparisons, provide automation for repetitive tasks, and ensure consistency across all shipments.

How to Use It: If you regularly ship items, especially in bulk or through multiple carriers, consider using a shipping software solution. These platforms often provide user-friendly dashboards where you can input shipment details and get real-time freight class and rate information.

5. Consulting with Freight Experts

Sometimes, the most efficient way to determine the correct freight class is to consult with experts who specialize in logistics and freight shipping. Freight brokers and consultants can offer personalized advice based on your specific needs and shipment types. They can provide guidance on difficult-to-classify items, help you optimize your shipment for cost-efficiency, and ensure you’re not overpaying for freight.

How It Helps: Consulting with freight experts can save you time and prevent costly mistakes. Experts are familiar with the nuances of freight classification and can help you navigate complex shipments, ensuring you’re assigned the correct class every time.

How to Use It: If you're unsure about the freight class of a particular item, or if you frequently deal with complex shipments, consider reaching out to a freight broker or consultant. Many brokers will help you classify shipments as part of their service, and they can provide advice on how to reduce shipping costs by optimizing your freight class.

6. Carrier’s Freight Class Guidelines

Most shipping carriers provide guidelines and manuals that explain how to classify goods and determine freight class. These resources typically include detailed instructions on measuring your shipments, calculating density, and identifying common mistakes. Many carriers also offer customer service to guide you through the process if needed.

How It Helps: Carrier-specific freight class guidelines are designed to ensure you comply with the standards of the carrier you're working with. They provide additional clarity on how the carrier handles freight classification, which can help avoid discrepancies and confusion.

How to Use It: Review the freight class guidelines provided by your carrier before you start shipping. Familiarize yourself with their specific requirements, and reach out to their customer service if you need assistance. Most carriers have online tools, FAQs, and phone support available.

Understanding Freight Class 85 is crucial for managing shipping costs efficiently, especially for goods that fall into this specific category. By knowing the factors that influence freight class and how to calculate it, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure accurate shipping. To simplify your shipping process even further, register at ykfreight.com and start saving on your vehicle deliveries!