Big changes are coming to freight classification standards this summer — and Descartes Pacejet is already preparing so you don’t have to worry.
Effective July 19, 2025, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is expanding NMFC subcodes from 11 to 13 characters and increasing the number of items that will use density-based classification. If you use freight class codes for rating and paperwork, these changes could impact your workflows. Here’s what you need to know and how Descartes Pacejet is helping you stay ready.
What’s Changing?
NMFTA’s freight classification changes include:
- Subcode Expansion: The current 11-character limit is increasing to 13. Systems that don’t accommodate this change could trigger rating errors or delay shipments.
- More Density-Based Classifications: Additional freight classes will now be determined by density, meaning accurate weight and volume data will be more critical than ever.
Carriers are already alerting shippers. If you haven’t received a notice, it’s likely coming soon.
Why It Matters to Descartes Pacejet Users
These updates affect how classification data flows through your shipping process — especially for customers using:
- Freight Class-based rating
- Product Codes tied to NMFC subcodes
- Freight Density rules to assign class codes automatically
Failing to update to the new subcodes may lead to misclassified freight, incorrect rates, or carrier rejection.
How Descartes Pacejet Is Preparing
We’re releasing product enhancements ahead of the July 2025 deadline so you’ll be ready:
- Updated Product Code Dropdowns: You’ll now be able to configure and select Product Codes tied to subcodes 01 through 13, not just 01 to 11.
- Expanded Freight Density Setup: The Freight Density screen will support new ranges for subcodes 12 and 13, and display the correct rate class associated with each.
- Improved Freight Density Shipment Rule: The behind-the-scenes logic that calculates density and sets classification is being updated to support all 13 subcodes.
These updates ensure your shipments are classified properly, automatically, and in compliance with the latest NMFTA standards.
What You Need to Do
If you’re using Freight Density today, here’s how to stay compliant:
- Update your Classification List to include entries for subcodes 12 and 13.
- Review and complete density range setup in the Freight Density page.
- As part of the rollout:
– The Freight Density rule will be temporarily disabled until the required setup is complete.
– You’ll receive an in-app message in Descartes Pacejet with specific guidance once the feature is live.
Need help? Our support team is standing by to walk you through the process.
Get Ahead of the Change
Don’t wait until July — review your classification setup today. These updates from NMFTA are an industry-wide change, but with Descartes Pacejet’s proactive updates, you’re already well on your way to compliance.
Have questions or want help reviewing your setup? Contact our support team or talk with your account manager today.
