As a small business owner, you know that every penny counts when it comes to shipping costs. Understanding freight class and how it affects shipping costs is a crucial aspect of managing your logistics and transportation expenses. Freight class is a standard set by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) that classifies goods into one of 18 different classes, based on weight, density, and stowability. Classes are assigned to NMFC numbers which is a designated category based on commodity. Freight classes range from 50 to 500. The higher the freight class, the less dense the freight is and typically costs increase with higher class numbers. 

The freight class of a shipment is determined by several factors, including density, stowability, handling, and liability. Density is the weight of the shipment per cubic foot. The higher the density, the higher the freight class. Stowability refers to how easily the shipment can be loaded and unloaded, and how it affects the safety of other freight on the truck. Handling refers to how much special handling is required such as being non stack or if it requires special equipment. Liability refers to the value of the shipment and the level of risk associated with it. 

Examples of freight class are below:

At Knichel Logistics, we understand the importance of freight class for small businesses. As a woman-owned small business, we know that every penny counts and we are dedicated to helping our customers find the most cost-effective and efficient shipping solutions. Our team of experienced logistics professionals can help you understand freight class and how it affects shipping costs, and we can work with you to find the best shipping solution for your business. 

In addition, we also provide real-time tracking and delivery notifications, so you can stay informed about the status of your shipment at all times. We also work with a variety of carriers and shipping options to find the most cost-effective and efficient solution for our customers. Our team is well-versed in the regulations and compliance requirements associated with shipping, and we are dedicated to ensuring that your freight is transported safely and efficiently. 

In conclusion, understanding freight class and how it affects shipping costs is a crucial aspect of managing your logistics and transportation expenses as a small business owner. At Knichel Logistics, we are dedicated to helping small businesses find the most cost-effective and efficient shipping solutions, and our team of experienced logistics professionals is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your logistics needs.