For less-than-truckload (LTL) shippers, maximizing space is crucial, as the dimensions and density of freight directly impact shipping costs and efficiency. With the upcoming National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) changes, which will transition thousands of commodities to a density-based scale for classification, it’s more important than ever for shippers to understand the impact of shipping air. Shippers should use this time to examine how their shipments are packaged and palletized, and if there are ways to maximize space and improve efficiency.
What Is Freight Density and Why Does It Matter?
Density is calculated as the pounds per cubic foot of a shipment and is a key factor in determining the freight class of your freight. Shipments with a higher density typically have a lower freight class, while shipments with a lower density are usually associated with a higher freight class. The freight class is one of the key components in determining the freight charges of a shipment. For LTL carriers, accurate density calculations are essential for optimizing space utilization and minimizing wasted capacity.
How to Maximize Freight Density
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is modernizing its classification system, and freight density will take center stage in these changes. Shippers can use this opportunity to review how their product is packaged and palletized for their LTL carrier to transport. Here are five ways shippers can maximize their freight density.
Review Your Packaging Materials
Corrugated fiberboard or recycled rigid plastic are ideal packing materials for LTL shipments. They are durable enough to withstand the rigors of transportation while ensuring that your goods stay protected during transit. You may also want to consider investing in customized packaging solutions that fit your product's dimensions precisely, as this can help reduce empty space. It is important to remember when shipping that density is calculated based on the greatest dimensions of your shipment. If you are utilizing pallets or packaging that are significantly larger than your commodity, you are paying for that void space.
Utilize Plastic Film
Plastic film, such as stretch wrap, is used to bundle products together and secure them to pallets, allowing them to be stacked without compromising the integrity of the goods. By using plastic film, shippers can create a more compact and stable load, reducing the amount of empty space and increasing freight density.
Use Stackable Configurations
Whenever feasible, opt for sturdy packaging that is conducive to stacking. Stackable unitized loads on pallets and rigid containers allow for more efficient use of vertical space while maintaining stability. Additionally, stackable configurations can be easily secured to the pallet with stretch wrap or metal bands for added stability.
Rethink Packaging Design
Use smaller boxes or containers wherever possible to minimize wasted space. Dense packaging configurations can help you avoid oversized, under-filled packaging that inflates dimensional space. Combine lighter items into a single shipment to achieve higher density.
Train Employees on Freight Density Metrics
Ensure shipping teams understand how to calculate density and its impact on LTL shipping costs. Encourage them to look for ways to increase shipment density and reduce dimensional weight.
Balancing Density and Proper Packaging
Optimizing density is important, and shippers can further enhance their approach by ensuring their freight is appropriately packaged. However, increasing density at the expense of packaging can be costly. This can result in loss, damage, and dissatisfied customers. Additionally, in the absence of proper packaging that adheres to the NMFC's minimum packaging requirements, shippers may not receive favorable cargo claims outcomes should their freight be damaged in transit.
Insufficient packaging is likely to result in freight being damaged during transit, resulting in additional costs and delays as shipments may be rejected or held up while carriers rewrap and secure them. These issues highlight the importance of investing in high-quality packaging to protect products and optimize the shipping process.
To strike the right balance, invest in durable and space-efficient packaging materials. Protective elements, such as bubble wrap or foam, should be used to the extent that they maintain product integrity without wasting space. Freight templates and professional packaging audits can also help ensure compliance while maintaining density goals.
For tips and best practices on packing and palletizing your shipment, download OD's packaging poster.
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is updating its classification system, with a focus on freight density to improve consistency in pricing. Key changes include a standardized density scale and updated commodity classifications to align with new industries. The first round of these changes will take effect on July 19, 2025. Preparing early will help shippers streamline operations, avoid freight invoice discrepancies, and remain compliant.