Understanding NMFC Codes for Machine Parts

NMFC Codes for Machine Parts: Optimize Your Shipping with TLI’s Viewpoint TMS

What are NMFC Codes?

NMFC codes categorize freight based on its physical characteristics such as density, stowability, handling, and liability. These codes ensure standardized pricing and handling across the transportation industry. For machine parts, the general NMFC code is 133300, which includes machinery or machine parts not otherwise Indicated (NOI). The classification varies depending on packaging and density, measured in pounds per cubic foot.

What are Not Otherwise Indicated (NOI) NMFC Codes?

When handling freight shipping, accurate paperwork is essential. Properly classifying your shipment is a critical step, but it can be challenging. After sifting through pages of the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), you may still be unsure where your shipment fits.

Understanding the term NOI (Not Otherwise Indicated) can clarify matters. Whether abbreviated as NOI or N.O.I., it denotes shipments that do not fit into any other specific class within the NMFC. The NMFC rulebook, established by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, categorizes shipments to determine shipping costs. NOI serves as a catch-all category for items not covered by other classes.

When to use NOI:

Using NOI requires caution. Most products fall into distinct freight classes, and NOI should only be used when no suitable class applies to your shipment. NOI commodities generally fall under density based freight classes, so be sure to use a density calculator to determine the proper pcf.

Freight carriers typically handle NOI items manually, which can lead to issues if the product must be re-classified under a different rate class. This reclassification could result in additional charges.

Utilizing TLI's ViewPoint TMS

To ensure accurate NMFC code assignment and optimize shipping costs, shippers should use TLI’s Viewpoint TMS. This advanced transportation management system allows you to route shipments correctly on the fly, providing real-time freight rates and precise NMFC code calculations.

NMFC Codes for Machine Parts

Specific NMFC Codes for Machine Parts:

Apart from the general machinery code (133300), there are specific codes for certain machine parts, such as oil or fuel filter parts for internal combustion engines. The following is a general NOI description that is density based.

Many machine parts have specific NMFC codes. For instance, NMFC code 133320 fright class 70, covers parts such as oil or fuel filters, cartridges, or elements for internal combustion engines. These parts, whether finished or unfinished, steel-made, and separate or combined, include brackets, check valve springs (excluding wire), cover assemblies and plates, end caps, relief valve assemblies and housings, retainers, stems, and tube guides, typically shipped in boxes or drums.

Thinking Strategically Beyond NMFC Codes

Using the correct NMFC code or freight class is crucial to avoid billing corrections and potential extra charges. Incorrect classifications can lead to reclassifications by carriers, resulting in unexpected costs. Partnering with an expert like TLI ensures that these issues are addressed proactively, minimizing billing errors and optimizing shipping efficiency. TLI not only ensures accurate classification from the outset but also provides training and automation to streamline logistics processes. Additionally, TLI offers enhanced shipment cargo liability coverage, ensuring peace of mind against potential damage during transit. Just because you know the NMFC codes, does not mean your shipment is covered fully by default in the event it is lost or damaged in transit. Don’t delay—partner with TLI today to simplify your shipping operations and ensure smooth, cost-effective logistics management.