LTL SHIPPING TOOL
Freight Density Calculator
Calculate shipment density and find a preliminary freight class before requesting an LTL quote.
SHIPMENT DETAILS
Calculate your freight density
Enter the number of identical pieces, their outside dimensions, and the total weight for that line item. Include pallets and packaging in the measurements.
Class is based on unrounded density. Displayed density is rounded to two decimal places. Density estimates are for planning only. Confirm the commodity’s NMFC item and final class with your carrier or Tetrix team.
Why calculate freight density?
In less-than-truckload shipping, the space your freight occupies matters alongside its weight. Accurate dimensions and weight help you prepare a better quote request and reduce the chance of a class adjustment after pickup.
Measure the shipment as it will be handed to the carrier, including the pallet, crate, wrap, or other packaging. If pieces differ in size or weight, add a separate line for each group of identical pieces.
How freight density is calculated
First convert cubic inches to cubic feet. Then divide the total weight by that volume:
Density (lb/ft³) = total weight (lbs) ÷ cubic feet
For example, one 48 × 40 × 45 in pallet occupies 50 cubic feet. At 1,200 lbs, its density is 24 lb/ft³, which falls in the density-only class 65 range.
What determines the final freight class?
Density is one factor in the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC). Handling requirements, how freight can be stowed with other cargo, and liability characteristics can also affect its class. The applicable NMFC item and carrier terms determine the final classification; this tool does not return a shipping rate.
Freight class density chart
The standard 13-range density scale below provides a preliminary class when a commodity is classified by density alone.
| Estimated class | Density (lb/ft³) |
|---|---|
| 400 | Under 1 |
| 300 | 1 to under 2 |
| 250 | 2 to under 4 |
| 175 | 4 to under 6 |
| 125 | 6 to under 8 |
| 100 | 8 to under 10 |
| 92.5 | 10 to under 12 |
| 85 | 12 to under 15 |
| 70 | 15 to under 22.5 |
| 65 | 22.5 to under 30 |
| 60 | 30 to under 35 |
| 55 | 35 to under 50 |
| 50 | 50 or greater |
Source: NMFTA standard density ranges. Class 50 applies when density is 50 lb/ft³ or greater.
Need a confirmed LTL quote?
Share your commodity, dimensions, weight, and route with Tetrix Transport.