Freight glossaryLTLFreightFreight Pricing
Freight Density
Definition
Freight density is the weight of a handling unit divided by the space it occupies, usually stated in pounds per cubic foot (pcf).
What it means
The NMFTA method: multiply the greatest length, width and height in inches, including all projections, as tendered, divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet, then divide the weight of the handling unit by the cubic feet. Its example: a 48 x 40 x 45 in. unit weighing 450 lb is 50 cubic feet and 9.00 pcf.[1]
Density is one of the four characteristics behind freight class, and for many commodities it sets the class directly on the NMFC density scale. Tighter pallet builds and less empty space raise density; overhang, tall light stacks and oversized pallets lower it. The freight class calculator does the math.
Related
Related terms
- Freight ClassFreight class is the category from 50 to 500 that the National Motor Freight Classification assigns to a...Glossary
- NMFCThe National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is the standard, published by the National Motor Freight...Glossary
- PalletA pallet is a flat, portable platform, usually wood, with a top deck and a bottom structure that lets a stack...Glossary
- RepalletizingRepalletizing is moving freight onto a new or different pallet, or building loose cartons onto pallets, so...Glossary
- Dimensional WeightDimensional weight is a billing weight calculated from a package's size, length x width x height divided by a...Glossary
Related questions
- Why Was My LTL Shipment Reclassified?Because the carrier found that the class, weight or description on the bill of lading did not match the...Answer
- How Many Cartons Fit on a Pallet?Multiply the cartons per layer (the Ti) by the number of layers (the Hi). The Ti is how many cartons fit on...Answer
- How Is LTL Freight Priced?An LTL charge usually starts from a base rate per hundredweight (100 lb) that depends on the freight class...Answer
Sources
- NMFTA Help Center, “How is the density of a handling unit calculated?,” Industry standards body. Accessed September 30, 2026.
General operational information, not legal, customs or regulatory advice. Rules and rates change; confirm current requirements with the agency, carrier or contract that governs your shipment.