The less-than-truckload (LTL) industry updated its load pricing standards on Saturday, making this the first week that the revamped National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system has gone live to help shippers and carriers determine delivery rates, according to the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA).
Under development for years, the updated system is intended to streamline and simplify the complex categories used daily by transportation providers, trucking fleets, third party logistics service providers (3PLs), and freight brokers.
“As of July 19, 2025, the changes outlined in Docket 2025-1 are officially in effect, bringing major updates to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system that will impact how freight is classified, rated, and billed across the entire less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. This is the most significant modernization of the NMFC in decades, and it affects carriers, shippers, and 3PLs alike,” the NMFTA said in a statement from Keith Peterson, Vice President of Operations, and Joe Ohr, Chief Operating Officer.
Specific changes include:
- the traditional 11-sub density scale has been replaced with a more detailed 13-sub density scale;
- over 2,000 items have transitioned to full density-based classification;
- generic NMFC headings have been consolidated for improved clarity;
- items with unique handling, stowability, or liability requirements are now more clearly defined; and
- NMFTA has launched ClassIT+, a modern digital platform to simplify access to Docket 2025-1 classification data and beyond.
- the next round of changes, known as Docket 2025-2, is scheduled for release in late August.
To help industry figures understand the changes, the NMFTA is offering online training and assistance on its website. Some carriers are also offering guidance on adopting and understanding the new standard. For example, an online “Quick-Reference Guide” from trucking and logistics provider Averitt explains how the new 13-tier density scale works, what steps to take now, and how these changes could impact your shipping costs, the company says.
