How you package your freight affects how it gets classified for shipping. NMFTA has proposed a change to Rule 685, a provision that currently lets shippers use alternate packaging for certain products.
This doesn’t mean packaging rules are disappearing. It means the way alternate packaging works is about to change, and shippers should know what’s coming before it affects them.
What is Rule 685 and what does NMFC Docket 2026-2 propose?
Rule 685, also called Packing or Packaging – Alternate Forms, is an NMFC provision that addresses how certain shipments are classified when they move in alternate packaging forms.
The rule currently provides a way for some commodities to use approved alternate packaging forms when the specific packaging form being used does not have a separate class listed in the commodity description.
What is Rule 685 and what does NMFC Docket 2026-2 propose?
When a commodity description does not provide a class for an article in a specific container or shipping form, Rule 685 allows the class for that article to be applied based on an alternate packaging form listed in the rule.
The rule includes different packaging forms such as bags, boxes, bundles, crates, drums, reels, rolls, and other shipping forms. The applicable alternate form depends on the commodity description and the provisions listed under Rule 685.
What change does NMFC Docket 2026-2 propose for Rule 685?
If the Docket 2026-2 proposal moves forward, Rule 685 will no longer be part of the NMFC.
In simple terms, the alternate packaging options that Rule 685 currently provides will go away. Shippers will need to look at the NMFC packaging requirements listed under the commodity provisions for the freight they are shipping.
Why is NMFTA proposing to remove Rule 685?
Rule 685 was created to provide alternate packaging options, but over time, applying the rule has become more difficult.
The Freight Classification Development Center (FCDC) found that the rule’s complexity makes it harder to determine when alternate packaging provisions should apply. It also allows certain alternate packaging methods that may override the minimum NMFC packaging requirements already listed within individual NMFC items.
FCDC’s approach is to keep NMFC packaging requirements clear and connected to the commodity provisions where they apply. These requirements help ensure freight is properly protected and can handle the normal handling and stowing conditions of less-than-truckload transportation.
The idea behind removing Rule 685 is to make things clearer for shippers. Shippers will use the NMFC packaging requirements listed for their commodity instead of checking a separate rule for alternate packaging.
How will the proposed Rule 685 removal affect shippers?
The proposed removal of Rule 685 does not mean NMFC packaging requirements are going away. Shippers will still need to follow the packaging requirements listed under the NMFC items that apply to their freight.
The main change is that shippers who currently use Rule 685 as part of their packaging decisions will need to review how those shipments are handled if the proposal moves forward.
Understanding where Rule 685 applies today can help shippers identify whether any changes are needed after NMFTA publishes the final decision.
How can shippers prepare for the proposed Rule 685 removal?
Review where Rule 685 is currently used in your shipping process and see which of your products rely on Rule 685, what packaging forms are being used, and which NMFC items apply to those shipments.
As you go through this review, pay attention to:
- The products that currently use alternate packaging options under Rule 685.
- The NMFC items associated with those shipments.
- Whether the packaging requirements listed for the commodity match how the freight is actually prepared today.
Having this information on hand makes it easier to know what may need updating once NMFTA finalizes the proposed change.