FAQs: We Provide Answers To Questions About NMFC Changes 2025

Major NMFC changes went into effect on July 19, 2025, ushering in a new era for freight classification across the logistics landscape. These updates are already influencing how less-than-truckload (LTL) freight is rated, priced and handled. So, if your shipping processes haven't adapted yet, now's the time to take action. And Unishippers is ready to support you every step of the way!

This FAQ tackles the most common questions we've heard from customers about the NMFC changes 2025 — including what's different, why it matters for your business and how to keep your operation compliant without slowing down your supply chain.

Whether you ship every day or only occasionally, understanding your freight class is essential to avoid misclassification, pricing surprises or delivery delays. Let's break down what's new in NMFC classification and how to stay ahead in this evolving LTL freight environment with the help of a 3PL.

What exactly changed with the 2025 NMFC classification updates?

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) recently released Docket 2025, an overhaul of the freight classification system. The goal: modernize the way LTL freight is categorized to reflect current packaging trends, commodity density and carrier handling requirements.

Here's what changed with freight class:

• The old 11-tier density scale is now a 13-tier scale, allowing for more precise freight class assignments based on density.
• More than 2,000 commodities were revised, consolidated or eliminated — making room for broader commodity groupings.
• New "special handling" indicators were introduced for items with stowability, liability or handling challenges.

These updates are designed to make freight classification more fair, consistent and transparent for everyone involved — including shippers, carriers, third-party logistics (3PL) providers and brokers alike.

Will these NMFC changes increase my shipping costs?

That depends on your freight's density, how it's packaged and what it is. Here's a breakdown:

• If you ship dense freight — like metal components or machinery — you may actually benefit. You could drop into a lower LTL freight class, which typically lowers your rate per hundredweight.
• If you ship lightweight or irregular freight — such as furniture, signage or foam — you may see a bump in freight class due to the new special handling specifications, which can increase your rates.
• If your commodity was part of the list of 2,000 overhauled items, even small differences in packaging could result in reclassification.

This is why auditing your current NMFC codes is so important. A top-tier 3PL like Unishippers can help you determine if your shipments qualify for better rates under the new NMFC classification scale — or if changes are needed to avoid cost increases.

Can I just keep using the same freight class I always have?

Not if you want to avoid surprises. Under the NMFC changes 2025, relying on outdated freight classification can lead to:

• Reclassification fees from carriers.
• Delayed deliveries due to verification holdups.
• Invoice disputes from mismatched class codes.
• Compliance issues with certain carriers or 3PLs.

Many shippers are likely to discover that using old codes is a fast track to re-bills and service disruptions. Even if you've been shipping the same products for years, now's the time to reassess.

I've never used the freight class system. Do I have to include NMFC codes on my shipments now?

You should — even if your carrier doesn't always require it. Here's why including the NMFC classification is best practice:

• Some LTL carriers require the code on your bill of lading (BOL).
• Without a valid NMFC code, many carriers will assign a default or higher class, which could inflate your shipping costs.
• Listing the NMFC code adds transparency and reduces disputes in case of a billing review or carrier inspection.

If you don't know the updated code for your freight, tools like the NMFC ClassIT+ platform can help, or you can ask your 3PL for guidance!

Are all commodities affected by the NMFC changes 2025?

Not every item changed, but the scale of revisions is significant. More than 2,000 commodities were adjusted — including many common items like cabinetry, plastic containers, fabricated parts and textiles.

If you ship anything commonly found in retail, construction, manufacturing or medical sectors, there's a good chance your freight class may have shifted. Check out the handy NMFC checklist to help you with all freight class changes.

NMFTA has also confirmed that this is only the beginning, with Docket 2025-2 already in development.

How do I know if my freight was reclassified? Or what if my old NMFC code no longer exists?

Your first step is to check with the official ClassIT+ NMFTA tool to verify current NMFC classification numbers and descriptions. It lets you:

• Smarter search for faster answers: ClassIT+ mimics a search engine, helping shippers quickly find updated NMFC codes and determine if their product's freight class has changed.
• Save and compare classifications: With saved searches and personalized results, users can track frequent shipments and instantly see if classification updates affect their freight.
• AI-powered and mobile-ready: Advanced features like AI-driven queries and mobile access let you check freight class changes on the go — no desktop required.

If your code was retired or absorbed into a new category, you'll need to reclassify using the current code structure. It's not optional — carriers use the latest version of the NMFC book to rate shipments, and outdated codes may trigger a reclass or surcharge.

If you're still unsure about your freight class, your 3PL can perform a freight classification audit and flag items that were impacted by the changes. That's what Unishippers does for shippers!

What are "special handling" designations?

As part of the NMFC changes, certain items now carry a "special handling" flag. These are commodities that:

• Are fragile, hazardous or temperature sensitive.
• Are hard to stow or take up excessive space.
• Pose liability risks due to value or volatility.

These items may be assigned a higher LTL freight class, even if they are dense. That's because density is not the only consideration — liability and handling risk matter, too. You'll see these flags in ClassIT+ and on your TMS platform assuming it's updated (like it is in our myUnishippers™ TMS).

Do I need to update my less-than-truckload shipping process?

Yes. To stay compliant with the NMFC changes 2025, you should:

• Verify that your freight classification is accurate and updated.
• Accurately weigh and measure each shipment.
• Verify freight density calculations.
• Include updated NMFC codes on your BOLs.
• Document any special handling requirements.
• Collaborate with your 3PL or carrier for freight class validation.

If you skip these updates, you're more likely to see misclassifications, delays and extra charges.

Will the freight class changes increase LTL freight disputes?

They can — especially if your systems aren't up to date. Some examples of disputes we've seen since the freight classification changes took effect include:

• Carriers reclassifying freight that was booked under an old NMFC code.
• Shippers being surprised by added fees due to missing special handling notes.
• Delays in transit because BOLs had inaccurate classification information.

To minimize risk, make sure your BOLs and documentation reflect the latest NMFC classification standards.

What about freight class changes and the transportation management system (TMS) we use?

Your TMS should already be updated to reflect the new NMFC classification structure. At Unishippers, our myUnishippers™ TMS has been proactively updated with new NMFC numbers for shippers' saved commodities and an enhanced freight density calculator that reflects the 2025 changes. If your current platform doesn't reflect these updates, your 3PL should reconfigure their system to stay compliant.

How do the new freight class rules impact packaging?

Packaging is significantly more important now that the 2025 NMFC changes are live, because how your freight is packaged directly affects its density, class, cost, handling and liability evaluation.

To optimize packaging for cost savings:

• Avoid excess packaging that increases volume.
• Use stackable, uniform pallets when possible.
• Ensure every carton or crate is densely packed.
• Minimize empty space in boxes or bins.

Packaging changes alone can shift your freight classification, so it's worth working with your 3PL on packaging — particularly if you ship high-volume or oddly shaped goods.

I haven't done anything yet with the new freight class changes. What should I do now?

Here's your to-do list:

1. Audit your freight classification codes.
2. Measure weight and dimensions for every item you ship.
3. Use ClassIT+ to verify NMFC codes.
4. Update your BOLs and internal records.
5. Work with your 3PL to resolve any discrepancies.
6. Train your team on the new rules and tools.

The sooner you align your operations, the smoother your LTL freight experience will be.

How can a 3PL help with these freight class changes?

A good third-party logistics partner can:

• Audit your historical shipments and current classifications.
• Flag outdated or discontinued NMFC codes.
• Rebuild your product catalog based on updated specs.
• Recommend packaging optimizations to boost density.
• Help you avoid billing disputes and reduce carrier chargebacks.

At Unishippers, we've already implemented the NMFC changes 2025 across our systems — and we're here to help you do the same.

Still have questions about the NMFC changes 2025?

The recent updates to freight class rules are complex, but they also create opportunities to lower costs and streamline your shipping strategy. From packaging tips to reclassification audits, Unishippers offers expert support and technology to keep you compliant — and competitive.

We have more than 30 years of success in the logistics industry and help thousands of shippers of all sizes move products with great efficiency. We are also part of WWEX Group, alongside Worldwide Express and GlobalTranz. Combined, these companies make up one of the largest and most diverse 3PLs in the industry, providing shippers with top solutions that help them succeed — whether shipping parcel or freight.

Ready to take the first step toward freight class optimization? Reach out today to request a custom consultation with a Unishippers shipping expert.