Density Calculator

LTL Freight Density Tool

Freight Density Calculator

Quickly calculate volume, density, and freight class for shipments

Length (in) Width (in) Height (in) Weight (lbs) Cubic ft Density
Total Weight 0.00 lbs
Total Volume 0.00 ft³
Combined Density 0.00 lbs/ft³
Freight Class N/A

💡 Tip: For cylindrical items, use diameter × diameter × length, then convert to cubic feet (÷1728).

Density to Class Reference

Freight Class Minimum Density (lbs/ft³)
50 50
55 35
60 30
65 22.5
70 15
85 12
100 9
125 7
150 6
200 4
250 3
300 2
400 1
500 0

Calculating Shipment Density

What factors influence my shipping costs? Freight classification and shipment density are critical factors that influence your shipping costs.

Freight classification and shipment density are critical factors that influence your shipping costs.

1.To ensure accurate rating, your shipment must align with the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC).
The NMFC assigns classification codes and outlines packaging requirements for various commodities.
It also considers factors such as:

    • Density
    • Storability
    • Ease of handling
    • Liability

To help Standard Forwarding Freight provide precise rates and optimal service, include the following details on your Bill of Lading:

    • Each commodity
    • NMFC item number or classification
    • (If required) Declared density or a statement of the released value.

Providing accurate classification information allows us to deliver the best possible service and rates.

  1. Measure the dimensions of your shipment: height, width, and length.
  2. Multiply the dimensions to find the total cubic inches:
    Example: 30” x 24” x 48” = 34,560 cubic inches
  3. Convert to cubic feet by dividing the cubic inches by 1,728 (the number of cubic inches in one cubic foot):
    Example: 34,560 ÷ 1,728 = 20 cubic feet
  4. Calculate the density by dividing the shipment’s weight by the cubic feet:
    Example: 150 lbs. ÷ 20 cubic feet = 7.5 pounds per cubic foot

For cylindrical items, measure to the extreme points to ensure accurate dimensions.

  1. Multiply the diameter by itself, then multiply by the height or length:
    Example: Diameter (36”) x Diameter (36”) x Height (60”) = 77,760 cubic inches
  2. Convert to cubic feet:
    Example: 77,760 ÷ 1,728 = 45 cubic feet
  3. Divide the total weight by the cubic feet to determine density:
    Example: 190 lbs. ÷ 45 cubic feet = 4.22 pounds per cubic foot

Thanks for your feedback! We’ve included additional service points.

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