Why classification still matters ... and how Docket 2025-1 moves us forward

Classification has long served as the foundation of the less-than-truckload freight industry, providing a standardized framework for pricing and service expectations across shippers, carriers, and third-party logistics providers. For fleet executives and operations leaders, it’s a tool that ensures consistency in rating, supports efficient load planning, and helps maintain compliance in a complex regulatory environment.

As the industry continues to evolve with new technologies, shifting supply chain dynamics, and evolving regulatory pressures, it's a valid question: Is classification still relevant? Our answer is a resounding yes—perhaps now more than ever.

The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system provides a standard for identifying and grouping commodities based on four key transportation characteristics: density, handling, stowability, and liability. This allows for consistency across a wide range of freight types and stakeholders. In an increasingly complex shipping environment, having a common language and structure is essential for ensuring transparency, minimizing disputes, and maintaining operational efficiency.

We recognize, however, that the LTL freight classification system hasn’t always been easy to understand or use. As new commodities were added and interpretations evolved, certain areas became increasingly complex, creating opportunities for confusion and inconsistency. That’s why the National Motor Freight Traffic Association classification team has spent the past two years working on thoughtful, data-driven updates to simplify and improve the system—and those changes are now coming to life in Docket 2025-1.

Docket 2025-1 represents one of the most significant steps forward in modernizing classification in years. At its core, this docket streamlines hundreds of commodity listings and brings many similar items under unified, density-based groupings. This change is designed to improve the consistency of classification assignments and eliminate unnecessary complexity. It's a shift that reflects how people use the NMFC today and how the LTL industry needs it to function tomorrow.

See also: Upcoming NMFC changes: What fleet operators need to know

By focusing more on measurable attributes like density—and reducing the number of unique item listings—Docket 2025-1 makes it easier for everyone in the supply chain to understand and apply the NMFC. Shippers can classify freight more confidently. Carriers can audit shipments more efficiently. Technology providers can build smarter, more accurate systems. It’s a better foundation for automation, digitalization, and long-term sustainability across the industry.

These improvements wouldn’t be possible without the engagement of our members and stakeholders. Throughout this process, we’ve held webinars, published educational materials, participated in industry meetings, and responded to hundreds of questions and comments. You can find resources at nmfcchanges.com.

The feedback and open dialogue have helped us make Docket 2025-1 stronger and more relevant to real-world needs.

Classification still matters because it creates fairness, structure, and predictability in an industry that thrives on precision. And Docket 2025-1 is proof that the system can evolve to meet modern demands while staying true to its purpose.

If you move LTL freight, we encourage you and your team to review the updates and explore the tools and resources available at nmfcchanges.com.

We're not stopping here. This is just one important step on a larger journey to modernize classification for the next generation of LTL.