Freight Classification & Rate Estimation

Pro v1.0.0 1 view

Calculate freight density, determine NMFC class, and estimate LTL shipping costs to avoid costly reclassification penalties. Essential for small shippers and logistics coordinators.

What You Get

Avoid $50-200 reclassification penalties per shipment by calculating accurate freight density and determining correct NMFC classification before booking

The Problem

Small shippers lose thousands annually to freight reclassification penalties averaging $50-200 per shipment for a 25% cost increase. With the 2025 NMFC density-based classification model affecting over 50% of commodities, getting your freight class right the first time is more critical than ever.

The Solution

This skill eliminates freight classification guesswork through systematic density calculations and NMFC research. Starting with product dimensions and weight, the skill calculates freight density using both box-level and pallet-level methods (carriers use pallet method), then maps results to the correct freight class on the 50-500 scale. It researches applicable NMFC codes, estimates shipping costs using industry-standard CWT pricing tables, and flags high-risk borderline densities that could trigger carrier reclassification. For shipments over 5,000 lbs, it compares LTL vs FTL economics with break-even analysis. Output includes clear freight class determination, cost estimates by carrier type, reclassification risk assessment with probability scores, packaging optimization recommendations, and implementation checklists with carrier communication templates.

How It Works

  1. 1 Gather shipment details: product dimensions, weight, packaging type, and pallet configuration
  2. 2 Calculate freight density using both box-level and pallet-level methods with Python
  3. 3 Map density to freight class on the 50-500 scale using 2025 NMFC standards
  4. 4 Research applicable NMFC codes using targeted web search strategies
  5. 5 Estimate shipping costs using industry-standard CWT pricing by carrier type and distance
  6. 6 Assess reclassification risk factors and calculate probability with financial impact
  7. 7 Compare LTL vs FTL economics for shipments over 5,000 lbs with break-even analysis
  8. 8 Generate comprehensive report with recommendations, checklists, and carrier templates

What You'll Need

  • Product dimensions (length, width, height in inches or cm)
  • Product weight (in pounds or kg)
  • Packaging type (palletized, crated, boxed, or loose)
  • Quantity (number of units, boxes, or pallets)
  • Optional: Pallet dimensions for pallet-level density calculation
  • Optional: Origin and destination zip codes for cost estimates

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Examples

First-Time LTL Shipper - Palletized Electronics

Complex palletized shipment with nuanced classification guidance. Addresses density vs commodity-based classification tension for electronics, provides cost scenarios for both Class 100 and Class 175, and includes comprehensive first-time shipper guidance.

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Diagnosing & Fixing Reclassification - Fragile Glassware

Root cause analysis for a reclassification penalty. Reverse-engineers carrier measurement, provides two packaging optimization options with ROI calculations, and includes carrier negotiation email template.

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Simple Boxed Shipment - Office Furniture

Basic freight classification for a small boxed shipment from New York to Boston. Demonstrates density calculation (10 lbs/cu ft), Class 100 determination, cost estimation for short-haul route, and implementation checklist.

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