Understanding Cubic Capacity in LTL Logistics: Importance and Calculation

In the world of logistics, LTL networks have become increasingly popular for companies looking to move smaller shipments. LTL, or Less Than Truckload, is a shipping method that is used when the shipment is too small to justify the use of a full truckload. Instead, LTL networks allow multiple shipments from different companies to be consolidated into a single truck, resulting in a more cost-effective and efficient shipping solution. However, one important factor that must be considered in LTL transportation is cubic capacity.

Cubic Capacity

Cubic capacity refers to the amount of space that a shipment occupies in a truck or trailer. It is calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of the shipment together. Cubic capacity is typically measured in cubic feet or cubic meters.

In LTL logistics, cubic capacity plays a critical role in determining the shipping rates for a particular shipment. Shippers are charged based on the weight and volume of their shipment, whichever is greater. This is because the weight of a shipment determines the load capacity of a truck or trailer, while the volume of the shipment determines the amount of space it will occupy in the truck or trailer.

The rule generally observed is:

If a shipment fills more than 750-cubic feet & the shipment maintains a density of less than six-pounds per cubic foot then the shipment is subject to the cubic capacity rule and the LTL contracted rate is no longer valid.

Cubic Feet Formula: Height x Width x Length = Cubic Feet

Density Calculator

To determine the volume of a shipment, a density calculator is used. The density calculator takes into account the weight and dimensions of the shipment to calculate the cubic feet or cubic meters it will occupy in a truck or trailer. This calculation is then used to determine the shipping class for the shipment, the shipment class directly will impact the rate.

NMFC Freight Class

Another important factor to consider in LTL logistics is the NMFC freight class. The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system is used to classify commodities for transportation. The NMFC freight class is based on the density, stowability, handling, and liability of a particular commodity. The higher the NMFC freight class, the higher the shipping rate for the commodity.

In conclusion, cubic capacity is an important factor to consider in LTL logistics. It plays a critical role in determining the shipping rates for a shipment, along with the NMFC freight class. To ensure accurate shipping rates, it is important to use a density calculator to determine the volume of the shipment and to properly classify the commodity according to the NMFC system. By considering these factors, shippers can make informed decisions and choose the most cost-effective and efficient LTL shipping solution for their needs.