NMFC Changes Are Costing You More Than You Planned

UTS Experts Can Stop You from Losing Money

Feeling the Pain of NMFC Implementation? You’re Not Alone

Even logistics teams who thought they were prepared are discovering the real-world impact is far more complex than anticipated.

The difference between struggling and succeeding? Smart logistics leaders are acting fast to course-correct instead of hoping it gets easier.

UTS specializes in rapid NMFC compliance implementation:

Don’t let freight classification problems compound into Q4. Start fixing your operations today.

Benefits of Density-Based Classifications

Simplify the NMFC

The new system streamlines freight classification using a standardized approach based on density, handling, stowability, and liability. This simplification makes it easier for shippers and carriers to understand and apply the classifications consistently.

Enhance User Experience

Users will find the NMFC easier to navigate and understand with a more intuitive classification system. This improved clarity reduces confusion, minimizes errors, and allows for quicker, more confident decision-making in the shipping process.

Increase Efficiency

The density-based approach aligns more closely with actual shipping costs and space utilization. This leads to more accurate classifications on the first attempt, reducing disputes, reclassifications, and administrative overhead for shippers and carriers.

What Organizations Are Facing Right Now

Maybe your team spent time and resources planning for the NMFC changes. Or maybe the preparations got lost amidst the bustling workdays and the changes went into effect sooner than you could have anticipated. Either way, the reality of these changes is hitting your business hard.

Now, manufacturers and shippers are dealing with:

The Good News?

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO GET AHEAD OF THIS

UTS helps logistics teams quickly implement proper NMFC 2025 protocols and reclaim control of their freight costs.

Real Issues Currently Affecting Shippers

13-Subprovision Density Scale

Expands from the previous 11-subprovision model to include new classes 50 and 55.

Your heavy, dense products might qualify for better rates—but only if you recalculate correctly. Most shippers are missing these savings opportunities or miscalculating costs.

Impact on Product Classifications

Product categories have been affected in different ways— from classification shifts to reclassifications based on product density.

Carriers are finding classification discrepancies daily. That “routine” shipment classification you’ve used for years may have shifted without you realizing it.

Truck loaded with box shipment.

Changes to Generic Group Headings

156 generic groups have been revised, affecting about 5,000 items through condensed and modernized commodity listings.

Your entire product database built around these categories needs immediate updating. Every unchecked item is a potential cost overrun waiting to happen on your next shipment.

Unique Identifiers for Transportation Characteristics

New unique identifiers for density, handling, stowability and liability improve communication between shippers and carriers.

Carriers expect you to use these identifiers correctly— mistakes trigger penalties and billing disputes. Your team needs training and tools on these new NMFC rules on this new system to avoid costly classification errors.

Packing boxes

Example of Quoted vs. Billed Issues on Prepaid Shipments Impacting Bottom Line Margins

Same shipment, three different prices

Initial Estimate

NO HANDLING UNITS DIMENSIONS

No Handling Units Dimensions Provided

Shipper submits the following:

  • Piece count: 88 pieces
  • Piece size: 12 inches × 10 inches x 6 inches
  • Piece weight = 15 pounds •
  • Piece cubic feet = 0.42
  • PCF = 36 (Weight divided by cubic feet)

Without full pallet dimensions, the initial shipment estimate is as follows:

  • Weight of 88 pieces = 1,320 pounds
  • Density scale class = Class 55 > INITIAL SHIPMENT QUOTE = $327.84

Note: After July 19, the carrier may charge a penalty for missing handling unit dimensions even if the price calculation is correct.

Example Scenario # 1

PARTIAL TOP ROW

Added 10 inches to height

Shipper submits the following:

  • Pallet size: 48 inches × 40 inches
  • Handling unit dimensions: 48 inches x 40 inches × 40 inches
  • Total piece weight = 1,320 pounds
  • Pallet weight = 60 pounds • Total ship weight = 1,380 pounds
  • Total cubic feet = 44.44 • PCF = 31.05
  • Density scale class = 60

 > SHIPMENT NET CHARGES = $362.52

> INCREASE OVER INITIAL ESTIMATE: +$34.68 (+10.6%)

Example Scenario # 2

‘DO NOT STACK’ CONES

Cone Triggers Carrier Dimensions

Adding a cone to the shipment above triggers additional tariff rules:

  • Handling unit dimensions: 48 inches × 40 inches × 40 inches
  • Carrier dimension rules: 48 inches × 40 inches x 96 inches
  • Total ship weight = 1,380 pounds
  • Total cubic feet = 106.67
  • PCF = 12.94
  • Density scale class = 85

> SHIPMENT NET CHARGES = $450.19

> INCREASE OVER INITIAL ESTIMATE: +$87.67 (+39.3%)

How UTS Can Help You Navigate the NMFC Changes

Carrier Rules Tariff Integration

We’ll incorporate carrier-specific rule changes into our LTL pricing and libility reporting.

Product Database Maintenance

Our specialists update your product database to comply with new NMFC classifications.

Specialized Carrier Negotiation

We secure fair pricing for complex shipments, including mixed commodities.

Dynamic Best Value Carrier Rankings

Our rankings automatically adjust to reflect NMFC changes and carrier rules tariffs.

Dedicate Support Team

Access our trained professionals for a personalized assistance.

Advisory And Consulting Services

Get expert guidance on adapting your shipping processes to the new system.

Stop Guessing. Start Saving.

Every day you delay costs you money. Consult with a UTS expert for free and become NMFC compliant.

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