The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is rolling out one of the most significant updates to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system in decades. Known as Docket 2025-1, this overhaul introduces a simplified, density-based classification model for a large portion of LTL freight — and it officially goes live on July 19, 2025.
This update aims to reduce reclassifications by estimating the real freight costs. It is time to adapt for shippers and carriers. Let’s break down in detail about what’s changing, why it matters, and how to prepare.
What is Docket 2025-1?
Docket 2025-1 is the first release in a multi-phase initiative by NMFTA to optimize and simplify the NMFC freight classification system. This aims to replace outdated, complex freight classifications with a consistent, density-driven approach.
The docket-1 focuses on commodities that don’t have special handling, stowability, or liability concerns. For those, NMFTA is introducing a unified 13-tier density scale to determine freight class.
In other words, if a product doesn’t require unusual care in transit and isn’t especially difficult to store or move, its freight class will now be based almost entirely on density. Commodities with special handling needs or higher liability will remain exceptions — marked with a unique symbol or identifier (more on that shortly).
NMFTA has streamlined thousands of commodity listings by eliminating redundancies and grouping similar products. This simplifies lookups, reduces classification disputes, and increases clarity for shippers and carriers.
When does it go into effect?
The changes take effect on July 19, 2025. Shippers and carriers should treat this date as the deadline to update their internal classification databases, tariffs, and training – after July 19, any freight tenders will need to use the new NMFC classes.
Misclassifying freight (using old NMFC codes or outdated classes) after the implementation can result in billing corrections and higher surcharges, so it’s critical to be ready.
The New 13-Tier Density Classification Scale
Under Docket 2025-1, commodities without special handling or liability concerns will be classified solely by their pounds-per-cubic-foot (PCF) density, using these 13 breakpoints. The densest freight can now fall as low as Class 50, compared to Class 60 under the old model. Whereas extremely light or bulky freight remains on higher tiers, up to Class 400.
The new 13-tier density scale promotes fairness by accurately reflecting shipment density and resolving past discrepancies. Now, products with similar density share the same class unless special handling applies.
The established “inadvertence” rule (Item 170) still remains, allowing carriers to reclassify shipments if density is misstated by shippers, ensuring consistency across classifications.
Shippers can now easily determine the correct class by knowing their product’s weight and dimensions, eliminating extensive commodity searches.
Unique Identifiers for “Special-Case" Commodities
Not all commodities fit the density-only model. Docket 2025-1 introduces special symbols (e.g., a dagger †) to indicate items with handling, stowability, or liability exceptions. These symbols explain that density alone doesn’t fully determine the freight class, indicating added risk or complexity.
Around 199 NMFC items requiring special handling or liability considerations will feature the new symbol while keeping their original class. Clearly marking these exceptions helps NMFTA maintain safety, pricing accuracy, and fair classification.
Simplified Commodity Listings and Item Consolidation
Another major piece of the overhaul is the condensing of thousands of NMFC item numbers. Previously, many similar products were spread across separate entries with minor differences — creating unnecessary confusion. Now, those items are being grouped under broader, modernized descriptions.
For example, multiple metal alloy types that once had individual codes are being merged under a unified “Alloys Group,” with classification determined by the new density table.
For shippers, this means:
- Fewer item codes to manage
- Simpler and faster classification
- Reduced risk of subjective interpretation
Thus, before July, shippers should review the updated NMFC classification list, as many old codes will be replaced. Update your contracts, bills of lading and software systems, accordingly, using NMFTA’s cross-reference tools to ensure accuracy.
This early prep prevents costly misclassification, ensuring you fully benefit from the new clarity and consistency.
Accurate Freight Dimensioning: Measure Freight Right to Avoid Reclassifications
With density taking center stage in freight classification, accurate freight dimensioning is more important than ever for shippers.
Every class on the 13-tier scale is determined by your product’s weight and volume. If your declared dimensions or weight are off — even slightly — your shipment could fall into the wrong class.
Many LTL carriers are now investing in automated dimensioners to verify shipment density. Inaccurate dimensions can lead to freight misclassification, invoice disputes, and even shipment refusal with added surcharges.
- Measure length, width, and height of every pallet or crate accurately
- Record accurate weight for each unit
- Invest in automated dimensioners — they can quickly pay for themselves by avoiding billing adjustments
Carriers and 3PL providers are also expecting greater accuracy. Since density is now central to freight LTL classification, carriers will demand: complete dimensions and weight details for every LTL shipment.
How shippers can prepare before it’s too late:
- Audit your data: Review dimensions stored in your product catalog or TMS
- Correct discrepancies: If actual sizes don’t match what’s listed, update them before July
- Train warehouse staff: Teach consistent measurement practices (e.g. round up to the nearest inch, include pallet height)
- Check your dimensioner: Make sure it’s calibrated and synced with your system, so it populates BOL data accurately
The NMFC’s push for “getting it right on the first try” means those who prepare now will avoid surprises later.
Be Ready Before July 19
Docket 2025-1 is more than just a rules update — it’s a structural shift in how the LTL industry assigns cost to freight.
For shippers and carriers, the message is clear:
- Understand the new density scale
- Know whether your freight carries special-case identifiers
- Audit your NMFC codes and item descriptions
- Invest in accurate measurement practices
Those who prepare ahead of July 19, 2025, will enjoy simpler quoting, fewer reclassifications, and more predictable costs.
Start preparing today with accurate freight dimensioning using vMeasure Pallet Dimensioners.
