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The NMFC catalogues and groups the commodities into 18 classes (classes 50 through 500) according to their “transportability.”
Under Federal law (49 U.S.C. 13703(f)(1)(B)) participation is required of any carrier that uses or references any provision contained in the National Motor Freight Classification. Only member carriers may use the NMFC for pricing, or use its commodity descriptions, classes, rules, packaging specifications, or bills of lading.
Use of the NMFC by any non-participating carrier to determine rates or charges renders those rates or charges invalid.
Commodities are grouped into classes using these transportation characteristics:
In addition to commodity classifications, the NMFC also contains rules pertaining to procedures for filing claims, packaging provisions, handling and service requirements, Bills of Lading, and the application of commodity descriptions.
How is it used? The classification is used by carriers in a number of ways:
How do I become a member? Membership in NMFTA is available only to motor carrier participants in the NMFC that complete and sign the National Motor Freight Traffic Agreement. To legally establish membership, the applicant must file a Power of Attorney with the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) and pay an annual fee, based upon the carrier’s total gross operating revenue for the previous calendar year.
To order the National Motor Freight Classification, or inquire about membership, call (703) 838-1810.
Information and a list of participating carriers is available on the NMFTA website.