The Freight Classification Development Council (FCDC), a committee of the NMFTA, is tasked with establishing, maintaining, and updating the classification-related provisions of the NMFC. In June 2024, the council met and decided upon various updates that will be effective August 3rd, 2024.
If you would like to learn more about national motor freight classification numbers and how they are calculated, please refer to this blog. If you would like to view the full official FCDC Docket while reading our summary below, click here.
What were the major changes with the August NMFC Freight Class Updates?
1. Foodstuffs, Frozen — Items 72035 and 73225
- Amendment Overview: The proposed changes include consolidating and updating classifications for frozen foodstuffs.
- Specific Changes:
- Item 72035 (Bakery Goods, NOI, frozen): This item is canceled, and references are redirected to item 73225.
- Item 73225 (Foodstuffs, frozen):
- Introduces a classification based on density with new subclasses:
- Sub 1: Less than 6 pounds per cubic foot (pcf)
- Sub 2: 6 but less than 10 pcf
- Sub 3: 10 but less than 15 pcf
- Sub 4: 15 or greater pcf
- The proposal includes a one-class adjustment due to handling, stowability, and liability concerns.
- Packaging requirements are specified to include moisture-proof paper lining for fiberboard boxes.
2. Carpets or Carpeting; Carpet Tiles; Rugs, NOI; Carpet or Rug Cushions, Liners or Lining, Pads or Padding, or Flooring Underlayment, NOI; or Carpet Remnants
- Amendment Overview: Various items related to carpets and similar materials are being consolidated into a new item.
- Specific Changes:
- Cancellation of existing items and notes, with references consolidated into a new item with classifications based on the greatest dimension and density.
- Notes 70611, 70682, and 70683 are canceled and reestablished under the new item.
- Notes 70681, 71002, 71004, and 71006 are canceled with no further application.
3. Hardware Group
- Amendment Overview: Simplification and reclassification of various hardware items.
- Specific Changes:
- Items related to Hardware, Furniture; Tire Chains; or Wire Shelving are reclassified.
- Specific hardware items such as bolts, nuts, washers, nails, screws, anchors, and rivets are addressed with potential adjustments to classification based on material and handling characteristics.
4. Bolts, Nuts, Washers, Nails, Screws, Anchors, Tacks or Rivets, NOI; Chains, belting or sprocket, NOI; Clamps, Clips, Fasteners, Latches or Shackles, NOI
- Amendment Overview: Review and update classifications for small hardware components.
- Specific Changes:
- Classification adjustments based on density and packaging are proposed.
5. Agricultural Implements, other than hand, and Agricultural Implements Parts Groups
- Amendment Overview: Reclassification and consolidation of items related to agricultural implements.
- Specific Changes:
- Simplification of classifications, possibly involving changes to weight-based classifications and packaging requirements.
6. Tent Parts
- Amendment Overview: Clarifications and updates to the classification of tent parts.
- Specific Changes:
- Reclassification to ensure proper handling and stowage during transport.
7. Asbestos Group
- Amendment Overview: Update classifications in line with regulatory requirements.
- Specific Changes:
- Ensure compliance with federal regulations concerning the shipping of hazardous materials.
8. Filtering Media — Item 69100
- Amendment Overview: Adjustment of classification for filtering media.
- Specific Changes:
- Classification adjustments based on material type and density.
9. Hairpins — Item 92300
- Amendment Overview: Minor adjustments to the classification of hairpins.
- Specific Changes:
- Likely minor adjustments to weight and packaging requirements.
10. Abrasives — Item 1050
- Amendment Overview: Update to classification for abrasives.
- Specific Changes:
- Focus on ensuring proper classification based on handling and liability considerations.
11. Item (Rule) 245 — Definition of or Specifications for Crates
- Amendment Overview: Review and update of specifications for crates used in transport.
- Specific Changes:
- Clarification and standardization of crate specifications.
12. Numismatic Exhibits – Item 63830
- Amendment Overview: Classification update for numismatic exhibits.
- Specific Changes:
- Adjustments to ensure proper valuation and handling requirements.
13. Cancellations and Obsolete Provisions
- Amendment Overview: Removal of outdated or redundant items.
- Specific Changes:
- Specific items and notes are canceled with no further application, ensuring the classification system remains current and streamlined.
Conclusion of NMFC Freight Class Updates
As pointed out above, many national motor freight classification number updates will be made effective August 3rd, 2024.
At DTS, we arrange LTL freight services and can help you with your questions about the NMFC freight class changes. Reach out to us at marketing@dtsone.com or (310) 521-1200.
