Don’t Let Classification Errors Add to Q4 Shipping Costs
Freight costs are going up, and mistakes with freight class can make your peak season even more expensive. General rate increases from major carriers and tighter capacity mean that even small classification errors can lead to big chargebacks.
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August is the ideal time to review how your shipments are classified. With recent updates to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) and stricter carrier enforcement coming in Q4, it’s critical to catch and correct any classification issues before holiday shipping volume spikes.
What Is Freight Class and Why It Changes During Peak Season
Freight class is a key factor in LTL pricing, based on density, handling, stowability, and liability. With the 2025 NMFC updates shifting more commodities into density-based categories, using the wrong classification can lead to higher costs. If your packaging or pallet configurations have changed, there’s a good chance your old freight class no longer applies. Carriers also get more aggressive during peak season. They verify and reclassify shipments more often. A small oversight now can lead to major invoice changes later.
5 Freight Class Mistakes That Cost Shippers Big in Q4
Even experienced teams make these common errors. Each one gets more expensive when multiplied across peak season shipments.
1. Using Old NMFC Codes
If your NMFC code is outdated, your freight could be bumped into a higher class without notice. Check your codes against the latest NMFC updates to stay compliant.
2. Ignoring Changes in Dimensions or Density
If your packaging has changed, so has your freight’s density. Carriers use technology to spot even small differences. If your numbers are off, they will reclassify your shipment.
3. Letting the Carrier Choose the Class
Leaving the freight class field blank or vague is a bad idea. The carrier will choose the class—and it probably won’t work in your favor. Always include the NMFC number, a clear description, and verified density.
4. Mislabeling Multi-Piece Shipments
Shipping different types of freight under the same class will trigger reclassification. For example, you can’t lump together a pallet of heavy parts with fragile items. They need separate classifications.
5. Not Documenting Dimensions and Weight
If you can’t prove the weight and dimensions of your freight, you can’t fight a reclass. Keep photos, scale tickets, and records. Carriers are scanning more shipments than ever—you should document just as aggressively.
✅ Pro Tip: Use a freight class audit checklist now to review your top 10 shipping lanes before the Q4 rush hits.
How Reclass Charges Eat Into Your Q4 Margin
Misclassified freight during peak season can quickly turn into hundreds of dollars in added costs per load, especially when you’re moving high volumes. These charges often show up after the fact, buried in reclass fees that catch teams off guard. Beyond the extra cost, they can also delay shipments, spark billing disputes, and reduce your access to already tight carrier capacity.
Say a shipment quoted at Class 175 gets reclassified as Class 250. That one mistake could cost you $300. Multiply that across your holiday volume, and the risk adds up fast.
High-volume categories like retail products, MRO supplies, and construction materials are especially at risk. Carriers want this freight to move fast and profitably. That’s why they enforce classification rules more strictly during peak season.
Best Practices to Avoid Freight Class Headaches
Avoiding reclass issues isn’t complicated. It just takes discipline and timing.
Use a freight class calculator
For density-based shipments, accuracy is everything. Don’t guess.Audit your top SKUs and lanes
Focus on high-volume items and your most-used routes. Check for changes in packaging or size that could affect classification.Talk to your broker or 3PL now
Share changes in your shipping profile in August. They can flag risks and help run audits before the busy season.Document everything
Weigh and measure every pallet. Save that info. Take photos when needed.Invest in visibility tools
Even simple dimensioning apps or scanners can help. More data means more control when it comes to disputes.Get Ahead Now, Or Pay Later
Reclass fees are preventable. You just need to act before peak season hits.
Start with a quick audit now. When your freight class info is accurate, you avoid billing surprises, build better carrier relationships, and protect your margins during the busiest time of year.
Want peace of mind? Reach out now for a free NMFC audit or a classification checkup!