What is a Freight Class?
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) created a freight classification system for all types of commodities to standardize freight pricing. This freight classification, including definitions of classes, is cataloged with National Motor Freight Classification tariff, commonly referred to as the NMFC.
What is freight class based on?
Freight classifications are based on four characteristics:
- Density: The weight per cubic foot.
- Freight Stowability: The length and width based on carrier mode rules.
- Ease of Handling: Evaluation of the care involved in transporting.
- Liability: This includes the freight price per pound, susceptibility to theft, liability to damage, breakability and perishability.
It is imperative to accurately determine the National Motor Freight Classification of the items being shipped to avoid costly adjustments.
If you have questions regarding a freight classification, a AES Logistics account representative can help. Call AES at 877-890-2295.
Who can use RS Freight?
RS Freight is only available to Members of RSA. You must be a registered member and logged in to www.rscentral.org in order to access the online rating and booking system. RS Basic Members receive deeply discounted freight rates from over 40 carriers, with discounts ranging from 65%-80% off published rates. RS Premium Members receive an additional 5% discount, paid directly as a quarterly rebate.
Can I estimate the weight of my shipment?
In some cases it may be impractical to actually weigh a heavy freight item (no access to a freight scale), so you may need to estimate the total weight of a shipment. All shipments are subject to the carrier verifying the stated weight, so it is advisable to always over-estimate the weight in order to prevent additional charges being assessed by the carrier. Make certain to include the packaging weight (pallets, containers, etc.) with the weight of the commodity being shipped as rates are based on the total weight of the shipment.
Why freight shipping?
Small package carriers set maximum weight-per-package and maximum dimensions that can be processed through their systems. USPS maximum weight—70 lbs, maximum dimensions—130” length + girth. FedEx and UPS maximum weight—150 lbs., maximum dimensions—165” length + girth. Any package that exceeds either of these limits must be shipped through a freight system.
Your customers expect you to be able to ship virtually anything, regardless of size or weight because that is your stated business. Freight shipments should be part of your offering in order to meet your customer expectations.
Do I have to schedule the pickup with the freight carrier?
Pickups are scheduled as part of the automated process. Once you’ve chosen the carrier you’ll be shipping with, you set up the pickup date and location. You can also call AES Logistics at 206-653-7662 if you would prefer they assist with the pickup schedule.
How do I quote and book Air Freight?
Air Freight can be quoted and booked via the same method as surface freight. The only difference is selecting “Air Freight” at the top of the Quoting screen in the online program prior to entering shipment details. We also recommend calling AES Logistics at 206-653-7662 on air freight shipments to ensure accuracy.
What is a NMFC number?
NMFC item number refers to a specific identification of each type of a product that can be shipped by a freight carrier. NMFC means National Motor Freight Classification. It identifies the freight class which determines the shipping charges as defined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA).
What is a lift-gate (Tailgate - No Dock) and when would I need to order one?
A lift-gate is a hydraulic platform mounted on the rear of a truck that is used to raise large, heavy items from street level high enough to be loaded into the truck. A lift-gate is needed on either the pickup or the delivery end of a shipment when there is no freight loading dock.
Note: When booking a freight shipment, RS Freight Quoting requires you to indicate if a lift-gate is needed for the pickup and/or at delivery.
Can I schedule a shipment and have it picked up on the same day?
It depends on how early you book the shipment, which carrier you select, what service you are paying for, and other items. For shipments needing same-day pickup, please contact AES Logistics at 206-653-7662 for assistance and special arrangements.
How do I purchase declared value coverage?
Each freight carrier offers loss or damage coverage which is referred to as “limits of liability” protection. These limits are automatic and shown as part of the quoting process. Additional value protection can also be purchased at the time the shipment is booked. For shipments valued at $5,000 or greater, we suggest calling AES Logistics at 206-653-7662 to ensure proper coverage is in place.
What should I do with the Bill of Lading?
The Bill of Lading is essentially the shipping label for the freight shipment. It needs to be with the shipment at the time of pickup. Copies should be kept at your store.
Are transit times guaranteed?
Transit times for LTL shipments are typically not guaranteed. If you have a shipment that is time-sensitive, day and date definite delivery can be arranged at additional cost.
What if a shipment is damaged, how do I file a claim?
If a shipment is damaged or lost and a claim needs to be filed, call AES Logistics at 206-653-7662. Their full-time, expert staff will guide you through the claims process.
What happens if my shipment isn't ready when the driver comes?
Freight carriers work on a tight schedule. As such, they rely on shipments being ready at the scheduled time. If your shipment is not ready, the carrier will likely add additional fees for waiting or re-scheduling the pickup. Best advice is to make sure the shipment is ready when the carrier arrives in order to avoid any additional costs.
What if a shipment is damaged? How do I file a claim?
The best defense is all-risk insurance.
We strongly recommend purchasing all-risk insurance for all shipments. This makes the claims process simple and virtually guarantees payment.
- Low Cost, High Value: The cost is just $30 for up to $7,000 in value.
- Zero Deductible: You keep the full claim amount—there is a ZERO deductible.
- Fast Payout: The insurance company typically processes and pays claims within 30 days.
Filing a Claim (With Insurance)
If damage occurs, you will work directly with TFWW for support. You must report the damage immediately upon delivery and provide:
- Photos of the damaged freight and packaging.
- The Bill of Lading (BOL) or delivery receipt noting the visible damage.
- The original invoice showing the value of the goods.
TFWW's dedicated team will then manage the submission and follow-up with the insurance company for you.
Can I ship items heavier or larger than standard parcels overseas?
Absolutely, yes! TFWW's licensed freight forwarders offer both ocean and air freight services for your largest and heaviest items.
Many RS members tell us the air freight costs alone are often hundreds less than using other providers. TFWW doesn't just provide the quote—their international team walks you through all the necessary paperwork and specialized packaging requirements.
To learn more or get started, contact their international specialists:
Email: hrepnwcs@tfwwi.com
Contact Names: Latasha or Tarra
Do I need a DHL account to get international options through RS Freight?
No, you’re covered. TFWW's international team uses a full spectrum of major partners—including heavy-weight package carriers, commercial airlines, and airfreight from names like FedEx and DHL. Your business gets the best global reach without needing any pre-existing accounts. (Standard restriction: no direct DHL account within the last 6 months.)