Calculate freight density in pounds per cubic foot (PCF), total cubic feet, and standard NMFC freight class (Class 50 to 500).
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The Freight Density Calculator determines the density of shipments in pounds per cubic foot (PCF) and identifies the corresponding National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) freight class. LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) carriers rate shipments based on density: higher-density freight packs tightly into trailers and earns lower freight classes with cheaper shipping rates.
\text{Cubic Feet} = \frac{L \times W \times H}{1728} \times Q \quad ; \quad \text{PCF} = \frac{\text{Total Weight (lbs)}}{\text{Total Cubic Feet}}Where 1728 converts cubic inches into cubic feet. Total weight divided by cubic feet yields density in pounds per cubic foot (PCF).
Scenario: Shipping 2 standard pallets (48" x 40" x 48") weighing 700 lbs each.
Volume per pallet: (48 × 40 × 48) / 1728 = 92,160 / 1728 = 53.33 cu ft.
Total Volume: 53.33 × 2 = 106.67 cu ft. Total Weight: 1,400 lbs.
Freight Density: 1,400 / 106.67 = 13.12 PCF.
NMFC Class Lookup: 12 to 15 PCF maps to Class 85.
NMFC classes range from Class 50 (highest density, least expensive to ship, e.g. solid steel bars at 50+ PCF) to Class 500 (lowest density, most expensive per pound, e.g. ping-pong balls or hollow plastic at <1 PCF).
The standard North American GMA grocery pallet is 48 inches long by 40 inches wide, with heights typically ranging from 48 to 72 inches.
LTL freight carriers use overhead 3D laser dimensional scanners at distribution terminals. If actual density is lower than declared on the bill of lading (BOL), carriers issue costly re-classification adjustments.
Carriers apply a cubic capacity rule (often when a shipment occupies 750+ cubic feet with density under 6 PCF) that overrides standard class rates with a higher minimum trailer spot charge.
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