With the upcoming National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system changes — Docket 2025-1 — poised to boost carrier efficiency and potentially lower shipping costs, this discussion examines past classification challenges and outlines the future benefits, along with crucial preparation resources for shippers.

Host Samantha Jones of SJ Consulting is joined by Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Services at Old Dominion Freight Line, and Keith Peterson, Director of Operations for the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA).

Key Takeaways:

· Why did the NMFTA change to density-based pricing? [5:54]

· How will updates to the National Motor Freight Classification system impact shippers? [8:48]

· Benefits and challenges of the NMFC Docket 2025-1 changes. [17:11]

· Resources and tools that help shippers prepare for the upcoming changes to the NMFC system. [20:31]

Shareables:

· “Freight today, a lot of it is on pallets so it makes sense to look at it from a density-base. You need the dimensions and the weight. It just keeps it nice and simple and uniform across the board.” — Keith Peterson, Director of Operations, NMFTA

· “From a classification standpoint, simplification is going to be great. And it’s going to create a better experience for the customer.” — Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Services, ODFL

· “We want a pallet that is composed well. It’s never been incumbent on the shipper in the past to make sure they are stacking their pallets so they are filling all the spaces.” — Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Services, ODFL

· “I don’t know any carrier that doesn’t appreciate getting the dimensions so they know what to plan for as far as picking up.” — Keith Peterson, Director of Operations, NMFTA

· “From a carrier perspective, the best resource we have is the Solutions Specialist.” — Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Services, ODFL

Resources

· Connect with Samantha Jones

· OD's NMFTA Resource Page

· OD Outlook

· ODFL.com

· NMFCChanges.com

· Cargo Shorts podcast

· Shippers can direct freight-related questions to [email protected].