Tier 2 · Supply Chain Terms

Freight Class

Freight class is the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system that categorizes LTL shipments into 18 classes (50-500) based on density, stowability, handling requirements, and liability, determining the base rate for LTL shipping.

Why It Matters

Incorrect freight classification is one of the most common causes of invoice discrepancies in LTL shipping. A shipment classified as Class 85 instead of Class 70 can cost 15-25% more. Carriers reclassify shipments at their terminals when the actual freight does not match the stated class, resulting in surprise charges.

The FourKites Perspective

Sam validates freight classification data from supplier documents against the commodity information in the Order Twin. When a BOL shows a freight class that does not match the commodity profile in the system, Sam flags the discrepancy before the shipment is tendered, preventing reclassification charges at the carrier terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is freight class?

Freight class is the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system that categorizes LTL shipments into 18 classes (50-500) based on density, stowability, handling requirements, and liability, determining the base rate for LTL shipping.

How does AI change freight class management?

AI transforms freight class from a reactive metric measured after the fact into a proactive capability predicted and optimized in real time. AI agents monitor data continuously, detect anomalies before they become problems, and take autonomous action using network intelligence from the FourKites Graph, which aggregates cross-company patterns from 882 enterprise shippers.

How does FourKites handle freight class?

Sam validates freight classification data from supplier documents against the commodity information in the Order Twin. When a BOL shows a freight class that does not match the commodity profile in the system, Sam flags the discrepancy before the shipment is tendered, preventing reclassification charges at the carrier terminal.

See how this concept powers autonomous operations.