Freight Density Calculator
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Density = total weight ÷ total volume — switch US (lb/ft³) or metric (kg/m³), plus an estimated NMFC freight class.
Rates last reviewed: July 2026
Weight & volume
Freight density
25 lb/ft³
Estimated class 65 · 500 lb over 20 ft³
- Estimated NMFC class
- Class 65
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Why freight density matters
Freight density is total shipment weight divided by total volume in cubic feet, expressed as pounds per cubic foot. Less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers use density as the primary factor in assigning an NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) freight class, which in turn drives your shipping rate.
Denser freight (like machinery or palletized boxes) generally ships more cheaply per pound than low-density freight (like foam, furniture, or empty-looking boxes), because low-density shipments take up truck space that could carry heavier cargo. Measuring total shipment volume accurately — including pallet height — is essential for a correct density figure.
Example: a pallet weighing 500 lb with a total volume of 20 cubic feet has a density of 25 lb/ft³ (500 ÷ 20) — a mid-range density that typically falls into a lower-cost freight class than bulkier, lighter freight.
NMFC freight class drives LTL pricing. Density is the primary factor but commodity type, stowability, and liability also affect official class.
Measure total loaded volume including pallet height and overhang — not just box footprints on the floor.
Higher density generally maps to lower class and lower cost per pound. Foam, furniture, and empty-looking pallets often classify higher than dense machinery.
Worked example: 500 lb over 20 ft³ = 25 lb/ft³ — mid-range density that typically falls into a moderate freight class band.
Carriers can inspect and reclassify freight — use accurate dimensions on the bill of lading to avoid rebills.
Official sources
Rates and formulas in this calculator reference the documentation below. Confirm current numbers on the source site before relying on them. Links do not imply endorsement by those organizations of Calcometry or this tool.
Common questions
What is freight density used for?
LTL (less-than-truckload) carriers use density as the main input for determining NMFC freight class, which sets your shipping rate. Higher density generally means a lower class and lower cost per pound.
How do I measure total volume for a pallet shipment?
Measure the full footprint and height of the loaded pallet (including any overhang or stacked boxes), convert to cubic feet, then divide total weight by that volume.
Is the freight class shown official?
No — class is estimated from density alone. Official NMFC classification depends on the commodity item number, handling, and liability — confirm with your carrier.
What happens if I use the wrong freight class?
Carriers can inspect freight and reclassify it, often resulting in a rebill at a higher class and rate. Use an accurate NMFC item number on the bill of lading.