Why Auto Parts Need Specific NMFC Codes
Auto parts is one of the most NMFC-sensitive categories. The same item can fall into Class 50 to Class 200+ depending on its density, packaging, and whether it is engine, body, brake, or suspension component. Getting the NMFC wrong is the #1 cause of LTL rebill in this category.
This guide covers the most common auto parts shipped via LTL freight in the US and what freight class range to expect.
Common Auto Parts NMFC Class Ranges
| Auto Part | Typical Class | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (on pallet) | Class 70–100 | Density-driven. Engines without packaging may go higher. |
| Engine parts (pistons, crankshafts, connecting rods) | Class 60–85 | Heavy castings, low class. |
| Brake drums, brake discs | Class 70–85 | Dense iron/steel — typically low class. |
| Brake pads, brake linings | Class 77.5–100 | Packaging matters — boxed vs loose changes class. |
| Tires, pneumatic (not mounted on wheels) | Class 110–150 | Low-density rubber — moderate-high class. |
| Tires, mounted on wheels | Class 70–100 | Wheel adds weight, lowers class. |
| Wheels / rims (steel, aluminum) | Class 70–100 | Material matters — aluminum higher than steel. |
| Lug nuts, bolts, fasteners (boxed) | Class 50–60 | Dense metal items — lowest class. |
| Bumpers (plastic, modern) | Class 150–250 | Low density — high class. Common rebill trap. |
| Bumpers (metal, classic) | Class 70–100 | Dense metal — lower class. |
| Shock absorbers, struts | Class 70–85 | Mixed rubber/steel components. |
| Springs (coil, leaf) | Class 50–77.5 | Dense steel. |
| Mufflers, exhaust pipes | Class 100–125 | Hollow tubing — low density. |
| Radiators, condensers | Class 100–125 | Fragile, requires careful handling. |
| Hoods, fenders, body panels | Class 100–200 | Large, low-density, awkward to stow. |
| Sensors (throttle position, oxygen, ABS) | Class 85–125 | Small but fragile/valuable — handling factor. |
| Wiring harnesses, electrical | Class 92.5–125 | Bulky, low density. |
These are typical ranges. Actual NMFC depends on packaging, dimensions, and the specific NMFTA classification rule for your commodity.
The 4 Factors That Set Auto Parts Class
Carriers don't pick class randomly — NMFC rules use four factors:
- Density — weight ÷ volume. Dense parts (brake drums, engines) = low class. Light parts (bumpers, body panels) = high class.
- Handling — fragile parts (radiators, sensors) require extra care, bumping up class.
- Stowability — large or odd-shaped parts (hoods, fenders) waste trailer space, raising class.
- Liability — expensive parts (transmissions, ECUs) carry damage/theft risk, raising class.
Top 3 Auto Parts Rebill Traps
1. Plastic bumpers shipped as "auto parts"
Modern plastic bumpers are low density (often 1–3 PCF). Shipping at Class 70 will trigger reclassification to Class 200+ and a surprise bill. Always check density first—use our free NMFC density calculator.
2. Engine on a pallet without packaging
A "loose" engine on a pallet (no crate, no shrink wrap) is treated as higher-risk and can jump from Class 85 to Class 100+. Always crate or box engines for LTL.
3. Tires shipped loose vs in boxes
Loose pneumatic tires can hit Class 150. Boxed or palletized tires drop to Class 70–100. Packaging changes class.
How to Get an Accurate LTL Quote for Auto Parts
If you don't know the exact NMFC code, you can still get a quote. Just prepare:
- Origin and destination ZIP
- Commodity name (e.g., "car engine, used, boxed")
- Total weight (lbs)
- Dimensions L × W × H (in)
- Pallet or piece count
- Packaging (boxed, crated, loose)
ShipOnlines will calculate class from density and return instant rates through our carrier network.
Get an LTL freight quote for auto parts →
Found your NMFC code? Get ready to quote
After finding the NMFC code / freight class, prepare your origin ZIP, destination ZIP, commodity, weight, dimensions, pallet count, address type (commercial/residential), photos, and accessorial needs such as liftgate, appointment, inside delivery, or limited access. ShipOnlines can help compare LTL, PTL, FTL, drayage, and transloading options.
Related Tools & Articles
- NMFC Code Lookup Tool — search 4,177 NMFC codes
- What Is an NMFC Code for General Cargo?
- Freight Class Explained: 18 Classes Guide
- How Many Pounds for LTL?
NMFC codes and freight classes shown here are a reference estimate — the carrier makes the final classification based on the actual commodity, density, packaging, and NMFC rules. For an accurate LTL quote, prepare your origin/destination ZIP, commodity, weight & dimensions, and pallet count.
Get LTL Quote → NMFC & Class Lookup Address Checker