The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) issued NMFC Docket 2025-2 on August 28, 2025. This docket builds on the changes introduced in Docket 2025-1, updating freight classifications and clarifying commodity groups. It assigns many items to a density-based system, consolidates related entries, and adds special symbols for items with unique handling or stowability requirements.
What’s is the NMFC Docket 2025-2
Docket 2025-2 organizes its changes into two main areas. First, the Business-Process Proposals & Analyses section provides full proposals, analysis, and contact information for each recommended change. Stakeholders can review these formal amendments and submit feedback. Second, the Mandatory Clarifications & Adjustments section updates classifications to meet regulatory requirements, cancels outdated items, and standardizes notes to reduce confusion and improve consistency.
Commodity Highlights in the NMFC Docket 2025-2
Docket 2025-2 affects numerous items and groups. Key examples include:
- Item 191730 – Frames / Partial Chassis: Now classified by dimension and density. Palletized or skid-mounted items must remain secure and protected.
- Item 110, Sec. 20 – “Not Taken”: Removed from classification language. Twelve items previously marked “Not Taken” now receive Class 0.
- Metals Group: Fifty-one individual items canceled and replaced with a consolidated entry using the 13-subprovision density scale. Ten notes canceled; item 136612 reintroduced for clarity.
- Agricultural Implements, Hand: Eighteen items canceled and consolidated under item 186600. Some sub-items redirect or are removed.
Other affected groups include leather goods, decorative evergreens, cooking equipment, air handling equipment, cleaning compounds, hazardous materials, armored vests, pipe fittings, cargo liners, bottle stoppers, cookware, and rules defining gross weights and crates.
What This Means for Shippers
NMFC Docket 2025-2 updates continues the trend toward a density-driven classification system, reducing ambiguities that previously led to overcharges or disputes. By consolidating related items, the FCDC streamlines NMFC codes, making freight classification easier to apply consistently.
For shippers, the updates emphasize reviewing packaging methods and shipment data to ensure compliance. Items with special requirements now carry distinct symbols, clarifying handling and stowability expectations. Businesses should also use this period to submit comments or attend the public meeting, as the FCDC may adjust classifications before the supplement publishes.
Compared to Docket 2025-1, Docket 2025-2 represents a broader, more detailed implementation of the 13-tier density classification. It addresses ambiguities, clarifies special handling, and consolidates numerous commodity groups, reducing complexity for all shipping parties.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Docket 2025-2 Issued | August 28, 2025 |
| Deadline for Written Comments | 5:00 PM EST, Tuesday September 23, 2025 |
| FCDC Public Meeting | 11:00 AM EST, Monday, September 29, 2025 |
| Final Issue | November 6, 2025 |
| Effective Date | December 6, 2025 |
If you have questions about NMFC changes, email us at marketing@shiptli.com and we’ll help you find the right answers for you.