Shipping steel products—whether sheets, bars, or coils—requires understanding freight classification to ensure accurate shipping costs, proper handling, and compliance with carrier regulations. Misclassifying freight can result in delays, unexpected charges, or damaged materials.
In this blog, we’ll break down what freight class is, how it applies to steel products, and key factors to consider when shipping steel sheets, bars, and coils.
What Is Freight Class?
Freight class is a standardized classification system created by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It categorizes goods into 18 different classes (from Class 50 to Class 500) based on four key factors:
🔹 Density – The weight per cubic foot of the shipment
🔹 Stowability – How easily the freight can be stored and transported
🔹 Handling – The effort required to move the freight safely
🔹 Liability – The risk of damage, theft, or special handling requirements
The lower the freight class, the lower the shipping cost because denser materials are easier to transport. Since steel is heavy and dense, it typically falls into the lower freight class categories (Class 50 to Class 85).
Freight Class for Steel Products
1️⃣ Freight Class for Steel Sheets
Freight Class: Class 60 – Class 85
Factors Affecting Classification:
✅ Sheet size & thickness – Larger and thinner sheets may have higher freight classes
✅ Packaging – Crated sheets are easier to handle and may have lower freight classes
✅ Material type – Stainless steel and coated sheets may have slightly different classifications
💡 Best Practice: Stack and secure steel sheets with proper palletizing or crating to reduce handling difficulty and improve stowability.
2️⃣ Freight Class for Steel Bars
Freight Class: Class 50 – Class 70
Factors Affecting Classification:
✅ Bar shape – Round, square, and flat bars may have different classifications
✅ Length & weight – Heavier bars are classified lower, while long bars may require additional handling
✅ Packaging – Banded or bundled bars are easier to transport and often fall into lower freight classes
💡 Best Practice: Secure bars in bundles using steel strapping to prevent shifting during transit.
3️⃣ Freight Class for Steel Coils
Freight Class: Class 50 – Class 85
Factors Affecting Classification:
✅ Coil weight – Heavy coils typically have a Class 50 rating
✅ Packaging – Unsecured or loosely wound coils may have a higher classification
✅ Handling requirements – Some steel coils require special loading/unloading equipment
💡 Best Practice: Use custom pallets, cradles, or coil racks to prevent movement and ensure safe transport.
How to Determine the Right Freight Class
To accurately classify your steel shipment:
✔ Measure & Weigh the Shipment – Determine the exact dimensions (L x W x H) and total weight.
✔ Calculate Density – Use the formula:
Density = Total Weight (lbs) ÷ Total Volume (cubic feet)
✔ Check NMFTA Guidelines – Use an NMFC code lookup or consult your freight carrier.
✔ Package Properly – Secure, band, or crate materials to reduce handling risks.
Final Thoughts: Get the Right Freight Class for Steel Shipments
Selecting the correct freight class for steel sheets, bars, and coils ensures accurate pricing, fewer delays, and safer shipping. Since steel products generally fall into lower freight classes (50-85), proper packaging and density calculations can help you optimize costs and avoid shipping issues.
🚛 Need to ship steel? Know your freight class, package it correctly, and reduce shipping costs! 📦
