Know your freight cost
before you commit.
Instant LTL and truckload shipping estimates. Enter your shipment details and get a cost range in seconds — no signup, no sales calls.
How freight cost is calculated
Freight carriers use a standardized formula based on your shipment's physical characteristics and the distance it needs to travel.
Calculate Density
Your shipment's density is calculated by dividing its weight (lbs) by its volume (cubic feet). Volume is found using the formula: L × W × H ÷ 1,728.
Determine Freight Class
The NMFTA assigns one of 18 freight classes (50–500) based on density. Lower classes mean denser, cheaper-to-ship freight. Higher classes cost more per pound.
Apply Rate + Distance
Carriers apply a base rate per hundredweight (CWT) that varies by distance, then multiply by the freight class factor. Fuel surcharges and accessorials are added on top.
Over $900 billion in freight moves across U.S. highways every year.
NMFC Freight Class Table
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) defines 18 freight classes based on density, stowability, handling, and liability. The table below shows the standard density-based classification used by most LTL carriers.
| Class | Density (lbs/ft³) |
|---|---|
| 50 | 50+ PCF |
| 55 | 35–50 PCF |
| 60 | 30–35 PCF |
| 65 | 22.5–30 PCF |
| 70 | 15–22.5 PCF |
| 85 | 12–15 PCF |
| 92.5 | 10–12 PCF |
| 100 | 8–10 PCF |
| 125 | 6–8 PCF |
| 175 | 4–6 PCF |
| 250 | 2–4 PCF |
| 300 | 1–2 PCF |
| 400 | < 1 PCF |
LTL rates average $0.20–$0.45 per pound, with pallet costs ranging $120–$250.