Overview
The Classification List is used for Quoting and Shipping LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight. Pacejet’s features around LTL freight is based on the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system which is described further below.
In the United States, each commodity or type of product is assigned a National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) and corresponding rate class for less than truckload (LTL) freight shipments. The NMFC system is a standardized method designed to give consumers a uniform pricing structure when transporting freight.
NMFC codes consider factors such as the cargo’s density, stowability, handling, and liability. These factors determine how efficient your shipment is to move, how much effort the carrier will take, and, therefore, how much your shipment will cost.
Shipping commodities are grouped into rate classes between 50 and 500. A lower class number usually indicates lower shipping costs and easier handling, while a higher class number corresponds to higher shipping costs and potentially more challenging handling needs.
The NMFC appears on Pacejet’s Bill of Lading in the packaging section and is used by our carrier connections to determine the rate provided by the carrier. The contract with your carrier should identify the NMFCs covered. If you are unsure about which NMFC applies to your freight, seek advice from your carrier.
Usage in Package Information section
The Classification drop down in the Package Information section is populated with the list. A user will choose the applicable NMFC from the drop down for each pallet in the shipment.
Usage in Advanced Features
Pacejet allows a Classification to be linked into the Commodity List.
When the Commodity Name is linked to an item in the ERP system, Pacejet will have a NMFC Classification per item and will use this information to automate the NFMC selection in the following functions.
Recalc Weight
The Recalc Weight icon is utilized after performing Item Packing. In addition to calculating the weight, it will also set the Classification by choosing the NMFC with the highest rate class amongst all items on the pallet.
Scan-Pack
The Scan-Pack interface will set the Classification by choosing the NMFC with the highest rate class amongst all items on the pallet.
Predictive Packing within Quoting
Pacejet’s Predictive Packing is used to estimate packages during Quoting. This process begins by evaluating the weight of the order in order to determine whether to package the items into boxes or onto pallets. If the weight is less than the Parcel Cut Off Weight, which defaults to 150 pounds, boxes are created.
If the weight exceeds the Parcel Cut Off Weight, pallets are created. Predictive Packing will assign a NMFC Classification to the pallet by choosing the NMFC with the highest rate class amongst all items on the pallet.