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Understanding Freight Reweighs and Reclassifications

Ever Get Hit With a Surprise Freight Charge?

Picture this: You’ve carefully measured, weighed, and labeled your LTL shipment. A few days later, your invoice comes in—and it’s higher than expected. Why? The carrier reweighed your freight or changed its classification. Frustrating, right?

Freight reweighs and reclassifications are common in LTL shipping. But the good news? They’re also preventable. Understanding how and why they happen can save your business time, money, and headaches.

Let’s break it all down.


What Is a Freight Reweigh?

A freight reweigh occurs when the carrier determines that the actual weight of your shipment differs from what was declared on the bill of lading (BOL).

Why Do Carriers Reweigh Freight?

  • Inaccurate weight declared on the BOL
  • Use of improper scales or estimation methods
  • Changes in packaging after quoting
  • Compliance with legal weight limits or safety regulations

Carriers use industrial-grade, certified scales to weigh freight at various checkpoints. If the reweighed amount is higher, you’ll likely get billed for the difference.


What Is a Freight Reclassification?

A freight reclassification happens when a carrier changes the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) code assigned to your shipment. This code determines the class—based on factors like density, stowability, handling, and liability.

Common Reasons for Reclassification

  • Incorrect or outdated NMFC codes
  • Misjudged freight density
  • Packaging that impacts stackability or handling
  • Incomplete or unclear descriptions on the BOL

Higher classes mean higher rates. So, if your shipment is reclassified into a more expensive class, your shipping costs go up.


The Real-World Impact: Cost, Delays, and Disputes

Freight reweighs and reclassifications can:

  • Delay deliveries while disputes are resolved
  • Create billing issues and accounting headaches
  • Hurt your carrier relationship
  • Eat into profit margins

According to a 2023 report from Inbound Logistics, up to 20% of LTL shipments experience billing adjustments due to reweighs or reclassifications.


How to Prevent Freight Reweighs and Reclassifications

Here’s how to ship smarter:

1. Use Certified, Calibrated Scales

Invest in a NIST-certified scale and regularly calibrate it. Guesswork is expensive.

2. Accurately Measure Dimensions

Include length, width, and height including the pallet. Use a tape measure or dimensioner.

3. Calculate Density Correctly

Density = weight (lbs) ÷ volume (cubic feet). Miscalculating this leads to incorrect classification.

4. Find the Right NMFC Code

Use the NMFTA database (membership required) or consult your 3PL. Don’t guess.

5. Package With Purpose

  • Make sure items are stackable and shrink-wrapped
  • Avoid overhang or irregular shapes
  • Label clearly and visibly

6. Be Honest on the BOL

Transparency builds trust. Declare weight and class as accurately as possible.


Tools That Can Help

  • Freight Class Calculators from major LTL providers like FedEx
  • TMS Platforms that integrate dimensioners and freight auditing tools
  • Third-party logistics (3PL) providers who can guide classification and documentation

What to Do If You’re Reweighed or Reclassified

1. Request the Carrier’s Documentation

Ask for certified scale tickets or reclassification reports.

2. Review Your Own Records

Double-check measurements, photos, and scale readings from your end.

3. File a Dispute If Necessary

Most carriers allow disputes within 30–60 days. Provide clear documentation.

4. Learn and Adjust

If it happened once, it might happen again. Use it as a learning opportunity.


Conclusion: Ship Smart, Stay Informed

Freight reweighs and reclassifications might seem like a nuisance, but they’re often avoidable with the right preparation. Think of your BOL as a promise—and the more accurate it is, the fewer surprises you’ll face down the road.

Being proactive doesn’t just save money—it builds stronger relationships with carriers and keeps your supply chain running smoothly.

📦 Want help auditing your LTL freight or streamlining your shipping process? Contact a trusted freight partner today.


FAQ: Freight Reweighs and Reclassifications

Why did my shipment get reweighed?

Because the carrier’s scale showed a different weight than what was declared. Even small differences can trigger a reweigh.

How do I find the right freight class?

Use a freight class calculator or consult your 3PL or the NMFTA. Never guess.

Can I dispute a reweigh or reclass?

Yes—if you have strong documentation. Photos, scale tickets, and packing lists help.

What is density and why does it matter?

Density affects the freight class. Lower-density items often cost more to ship.

Will my shipment always be reweighed or reclassified?

Not always—but random checks and spot inspections are common. Accuracy helps reduce the chances.


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