The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC)® can be confusing and that's why we're making major changes to streamline your experience in classifying LTL freight. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™ is committed to working with the industry to make the transition smooth.
Subscribe now to receive bi-weekly updates on 2025 NMFC Changes directly to your inbox, including new NMFC Items lists, and more.
The current NMFC system is complex and outdated. This reimagination aims to:
Simplify the NMFC
We'll use a standardized approach based on density, handling, stowability, and liability.
Enhance User Experience
The NMFC will be easier to use and understand.
Increase Efficiency
Classifying freight will be more accurate on the first try.
What's Changing?
We're implementing a phased approach, with the first changes coming in Docket 2025-1. Here's a summary:
Standardized density scale for LTL freight with no handling, stowability, and liability issues.
Unique identifiers for freight with special handling, stowability, or liability needs.
Condensed and modernized commodity listings.
Improved usability of the ClassIT classification tool.
How Will This Affect You?
The impact will vary depending on your role in the LTL industry.
Review Docket 2025-1 Disposition
The NMFC Docket 2025-1 Disposition has been released and contains significant changes to the NMFC. Click the link via the button below to view the Disposition Bulletin on the Public Docket Files page.
As an LTL industry professional, it is essential you prepare for these changes by the go-live date: July 19, 2025.Incorrectly classifying freight with incorrect NMFC classification codes can result in higher costs to you and your business.
FCDC Procedures and FCDC Density Guidelines can also be found on the Public Docket Files page.
Submit Your Feedback
The feedback deadline for Docket 2025-1 has now passed. Please refer to the public docket files page for the disposition bulletin, which will be published before the end of March
It's essential to prepare for the potential impact of the proposed changes. Staying informed about the progress and outcomes of the Docket 2025-1 feedback process will enable you to adapt your operations accordingly. You can continue to find the latest news, including updates and announcements regarding final decisions here at nmfcchanges.com. You'll also need to spread the message to your audience. Use NMFTA resources below to prepare.
Resources
On March 21, 2025, the Freight Classification Development Council (FCDC) released its NMFC 2025-1 Docket Disposition Bulletin. The PDF can be found below, as well as the XLSX spreadsheet (Note: Expanded version is available through ClassIT®).
This notice reflects proposed amendments discussed by the FCDC at the public meeting on March 3, 2025 in Clearwater Beach, FL, and the action of the FCDC on each proposal. Amendments resulting from the dispositions herein will be published in a supplement to the NMFC that is scheduled to be issued on May 10, 2025, with an effective date of July 19, 2025. ClassIT will be automatically updated on July 19, 2025.
The current NMFC system is complex and can be confusing. This reimagination aims to simplify it, improve user experience, increase classification efficiency, and reduce friction between shippers, carriers, and 3PLs.
When are the changes happening?
The changes are being implemented in phases. The first changes will be rolled out in Docket 2025-1 with an effective date of Saturday, July 19, 2025.
How can I stay informed about the changes?
The NMFTA will be hosting listening sessions (Summer 2024) and webinars to provide updates. You can also sign up to our monthly Headline newsletter for important updates. Subscribe Now >
How will the changes simplify the classification process?
A standardized density scale will be used for most freight. This eliminates the need to consider multiple factors in many cases.
What if my NMFC item or class changes?
Yes, your NMFC item number, sub, and freight class may change. The NMFTA will provide resources to help you navigate these changes.
How will these changes impact shipping times or costs?
The ultimate impact on shipping times and costs is difficult to predict at this stage. However, the NMFTA hopes that a more efficient classification system will allow for more precise rates based on actual shipment characteristics.
What happens after Docket 2025-1?
The NMFTA will continue to refine the NMFC system in future dockets. They will focus on freight with specific handling, stowability or liability needs and assign classes based on those unique characteristics.
Will the ClassIT tool be updated?
The ClassIT product will be completely rewritten and relaunched. More information on these improvements will be available closer to the implementation date.
What resources will the NMFTA offer to help with the transition?
The NMFTA will provide a variety of resources, including webinars, guides, and updated interpretationsto help users understand and navigate the new NMFC system. Please sign up to our newsletter to stay informed. Subscribe here >
What is the NMFC?
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC)® is a standardized system in North America that classifies freight for LTL shipping purposes. It simplifies how carriers and shippers determine shipping costs and procedures. For more information on the NMFC, visit nmfta.org/nmfc today.
.png?width=600&height=400&name=v2-shipper-listening-session-nmfc-600x400px%20(1).png)
.jpg "1000x300-CrossSell-Email-V2 (1)")
