Big NMFC Code Changes are coming—are you ready, or will you be left scrambling?
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YouTube Series on Upcoming NMFC Code Changes
Navigating NMFC code changes can be challenging, but staying informed is crucial to avoiding unexpected freight classification issues, cost adjustments, and compliance risks. Our exclusive YouTube series breaks down everything you need to know about the latest NMFC updates—straightforward, actionable, and designed for shippers and freight professionals like you.
The Upcoming 2025 NMFC Code Changes
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is making changes to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) codes, starting with Docket 2025-1. This update aims to simplify freight classification, especially for shipments that don’t have special handling, stowability, or liability concerns. These items will now fall under a 13-subclass density-based system, while those with unique requirements will be marked with special symbols. The goal is to make Less-than-Truckload (LTL) classification more user-friendly, helping shippers, carriers, and third-party logistics providers (3PLs) choose the correct class on the first try and reduce disputes.
The Freight Classification Development Council (FCDC) is leading these updates, with the first full list now published on on January 30, 2025. A public meeting on March 3, 2025, will give stakeholders a chance to discuss the updates, and any approved changes will go into effect on July 19, 2025. Businesses involved in shipping are encouraged to participate in listening sessions to stay informed and share feedback.
Four key factors influence NMFC classification: density, handling, stowability, and liability.
- Density: amount of space the shipment takes up
- Stowability: how easy it is to store the product during transit
- Handling: how easy it is to move the product
- Liability: the risk of damage and theft for moving the product
By shifting to a more standardized density-based system, NMFTA aims to make freight classification clearer, reduce confusion, and improve efficiency for everyone involved in logistics.
How a Transportation Management System Helps with NMFC Codes
ViewPoint makes it easy to manage your product IDs and NMFC codes in one place. It goes beyond basic storage by filtering NMFC codes by subclass based on density. As you enter shipment details, ViewPoint automatically calculates density, ensuring accurate classification every time.
Managing NMFC Codes in your TMS System
Keep your IDs and products updated to stay compliant with NMFC code changes. With the final updates going live on July 19, it’s important to update your system in advance to the deadline.
At TLI, we handle the heavy lifting to keep your NMFC codes current. Our team proactively updates NMFC classifications as soon as they’re released, ensuring shippers stay on track without disruptions. With 30 years of experience, we’re ready to update your system and keep your freight moving smoothly.
Managing NMFCs with Freight Invoice Audit
A freight audit helps shippers stay compliant with NMFC code changes by identifying misclassifications and billing errors before they become major issues. By reviewing freight invoices and shipment data, a freight audit ensures that the correct NMFC codes are applied, preventing overcharges and disputes. As updates roll out, a thorough audit process keeps your classifications accurate and your costs in check. With NMFC codes changing, a freight audit is a smart way to protect your bottom line and streamline operations.
reweighs & Reclasses
If the carrier finds incorrect weight or class information, they may charge the shipper for inspections and add extra costs. TLI experts flag shipments with reweighs or reclassification to help mitigate costs.
Accessorial audit
An accessorial charge may have been added to the shipment, even if it wasn’t necessary. Rather than paying extra for an unused service, TLI experts investigate whether the service was essential and dispute if needed.
PRocesses audit
If discrepancies persist, delve deeper into their root causes to identify and implement solutions. TLI’s systems play a key role in streamlining processes, ensuring accurate information is processed upfront to prevent back-end challenges.