Freight Density Calculator
Calculate your shipment’s density in pounds per cubic foot — the single number that sets your NMFC freight class. Enter dimensions and weight for one or more pallets; we’ll show the density and the class it points to.
Freight density
Volume
53.33
ft³
Weight
550
lb
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Density = weight ÷ volume. Estimates only — verify with your carrier.
Why density matters
LTL carriers price freight largely on density, because it predicts how much truck space a shipment uses per pound. The formula is:
Once you know density, map it to a class with the freight class calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How do you calculate freight density?
Density = total weight (lb) ÷ total volume (ft³). Get volume by multiplying length × width × height in inches and dividing by 1,728. For example, a 48 × 40 × 48 in pallet at 550 lb is 53.3 ft³, or about 10.3 lb/ft³.
What is a good freight density?
Higher density usually means a lower freight class and a lower rate. Dense freight (15+ lb/ft³) tends to fall in classes 50–70; light, bulky freight (under 5 lb/ft³) lands in higher classes like 175–400.
Does density include the pallet?
Yes — use the full footprint and total height of the loaded pallet, and the total weight including the pallet itself. Carriers rate the handling unit as presented, so the pallet's dimensions and weight count.