LTL shippers are in for a pleasant surprise on May 3, 2025.
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. has announced changes to the NFMC classification codes that shippers and carriers use to quote and price freight.
LTL carriers have long understood the complexity that's inherent in the NMFC classification process. Shippers, on the other hand, have faced a steep learning curve, one that is usually accompanied by painful reclasses and reweighs.
The goal of the NMFC changes is to simplify the process for shippers and carriers alike. The NMFTA "is focused on creating a classification system that simplifies where needed, clarifies where helpful, and enhances efficiency throughout the process."
For shippers, achieving that simplicity and efficiency comes down to providing accurate dimensions and weight on their BOLs and eBOLs. The classification process will soon rely heavily on the density of the shipment, which has not always been the case.
Shippers can prepare for these changes by investing in dimensioning technology and working with their carriers to establish an SOP for how they prepare their LTL shipments.
To visualize how you might use an LTL shipper-specific dimensioner, check out the Cubiscan S9 on YouTube or the Cubiscan website.
To read more about the upcoming NMFC changes, see the link in the comments.
