Alexei Volkov
The freight class for plastic resin can vary depending on several factors, including the type of resin, its density, and its value. Different freight classes are based on weight, length, height, density, ease of handling, value, and liability from theft, damage, breakability, and spoilage. While most types of resin fall under the same freight classification, NMFC 46030, there are exceptions, such as epoxy resins, which are based on the value of the shipment. The density of the resin is also a factor in determining the freight class, with lower freight classes typically representing items of higher density and lower cost.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Freight class | 55-500 |
| NMFC code | 46030 |
| Density | The primary key in determining freight class |
| Handling | The ability of the commodity to be handled as the freight is loaded and unloaded from LTL terminal to LTL terminal |
| Stow-ability | How easy it is to stow the commodity |
| Liability | The value and whether extra security precautions are needed to safeguard it against theft |
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What You'll Learn
Density-based freight classes for plastic resins
The freight class of a commodity is based on its transportation characteristics, which include density, stowability, handling, and liability. Density is the primary key in determining freight class, with the other characteristics also potentially having a profound effect on the class and cost. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFT) has standardised shipping costs across the freight industry, with 18 standard freight classes and 11 density-based freight classes.
The density of a commodity is determined by how much it weighs in relation to its size. This is calculated in pounds per cubic foot. Lower-density commodities will generally have a higher freight class and cost more to ship. This is because they take up more space in the trailer relative to their weight.
When shipping plastic resins, the density-based classification will depend on the specific type of plastic resin being shipped. Different types of plastic resins have different densities, which will determine their freight class. For example, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin has a different density than low-density polyethylene (LDPE) resin.
To determine the freight class of plastic resins, shippers need to accurately calculate the density of their shipment. This involves measuring the weight and dimensions of the shipment, including any packaging and pallets. Shippers should also consider the stowability, handling, and liability of the shipment, as these factors can also impact the freight class and cost.
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Value-based freight classes for plastic resins
Shipping plastic resins and polymers is a crucial aspect of the global supply chain, given their extensive use in various industries. Freight classes for plastic resins are based on several factors, including weight, length, height, density, ease of handling, value, liability, and stowability.
Density
The density of plastic resins and polymers varies, making it challenging to determine the most efficient mode of transport and calculate freight costs. Density is a critical factor in determining freight class and subsequent costs. Lower freight classes typically represent items of higher density, resulting in lower shipping costs.
Handling
The ease of handling plastic resins during loading and unloading between terminals is another factor influencing freight class and cost. Packaging, unit dimensions, and fragility are considered when determining the impact of handling on the freight class. Items that are more challenging to handle due to unusual dimensions or fragility may require special equipment or precautions, increasing the freight class and shipping costs.
Liability
The greater the liability risk, the higher the freight class and shipping costs. This includes the risk of theft, damage, or the potential for the item to cause damage to other freight or property. Extra security precautions may be necessary for items with higher liability risks, impacting the freight class and overall shipping expenses.
Stowability
Stowability refers to how efficiently items can be stowed in a trailer with other freight. Plastic resins with varying bulk densities may pose challenges in stowability, affecting the freight class and shipping costs.
When determining the freight class for plastic resins, it is essential to consider the balance between density, handling, liability, and stowability. These factors collectively influence the assigned freight class and subsequent shipping costs. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMTA) provides an online tool called ClassIT, which helps determine the correct freight class for plastic resins. Accurate classification is crucial to avoid higher rating and carrier billings.
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NMFC codes for plastic resins
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is responsible for publishing NMFC codes and freight classes. However, this information is proprietary, and specific codes are not available online.
NMFC codes are a standard for comparing commodities and help identify what is being shipped. The freight class relates to the commodity in terms of handling, stowability, density, and liability. There are 18 freight classes ranging from 50 to 500, with lower class numbers generally corresponding to lower shipping costs.
The NMFC freight class for plastic resins is not publicly available. However, you can determine the freight class of your plastic resin shipment by considering its transportation characteristics. These include density, liability, handling, and stowability.
Density is a key factor in determining the freight class of plastic resins. It is calculated as the weight of the commodity in relation to its size. Plastic resins with a higher density may be assigned a different freight class than those with a lower density.
Liability is another important consideration. This includes the value of the plastic resin and whether additional security measures are required to protect it from theft or damage. If the liability is higher, the freight class may be adjusted accordingly.
Handling refers to the loading and unloading process. If the plastic resin requires special equipment or precautions during handling, it may impact the freight class.
Finally, stowability refers to how efficiently the plastic resin can be loaded and arranged in the trailer with other freight. Plastic resins that are bulky or irregularly shaped may have different stowability characteristics compared to those that are more compact and uniform.
While the exact NMFC code for plastic resins is not available, understanding the transportation characteristics outlined above can help determine the appropriate freight class for shipping.
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Packaging requirements for plastic resins
Plastic resins are widely used in the packaging industry due to their lightweight, durable, and cost-effective nature. Different types of resins are used for packaging, each with unique properties suited to specific applications.
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
LDPE is a popular packaging resin choice for food packaging, shrink wraps, cleaning bags, and heat sealing. It is flexible, durable, and resistant to acids, oils, and greases. LDPE acts as a gas barrier, making it ideal for packaging food products that spoil when exposed to oxygen.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE is commonly used for manufacturing plastic bottles and containers for items like laundry detergents, shampoos, and lotions. It is a versatile resin used across various industries due to its durability and ability to be made without colours or pigments. HDPE is also used for rigid packaging, providing moisture barriers that are ideal for short-term storage during shipping and supply chain processes.
Polypropylene (PP)
PP is a top choice for flexible and rigid products, offering high clarity and an exceptional vapour barrier. It is commonly used for food packaging, such as deli bags, takeout containers, and trays. PP has a high melting point and is resistant to many chemicals and solvents, helping preserve the freshness and taste of food.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
PET, also known as PETE, is commonly used for creating bottles for beverages like soft drinks and sports drinks. It provides durability, impact resistance, and effective moisture and gas barrier properties, making it ideal for protecting carbonated drinks. PET is also used for injection-moulded items, where the resin is formed into a specific shape and left to harden.
Polystyrene
Polystyrene is often used for protective and food packaging due to its high melting point, allowing it to handle warm liquids and hot meals. Disposable coffee cups and carryout containers are often made from polystyrene foams. The rigid version provides durability and moisture barriers, making it suitable for short-term storage during shipping.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC is a versatile resin that can be crafted into rigid or flexible packaging. It is gas-permeable, making it ideal for packaging items like red meat, which requires oxygen to stay fresh.
Freight Class and Packaging Requirements
The freight class for plastic resins is based on factors such as weight, density, ease of handling, value, and liability. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFA) uses density as the primary characteristic for classification. Lower freight classes generally correspond to lower shipping costs.
Regarding specific packaging requirements, companies must adhere to regulations such as the U.S. Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) guidelines when using resins for food-contact articles. The FDA regulates food-contact plastics based on their composition, and recycled food-contact plastics must meet the same specifications as virgin plastics. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the purity and suitability of recycled plastics for their intended use.
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Freight cost calculation for plastic resins
The freight cost for shipping plastic resins can vary depending on several factors and challenges. Plastic resins are raw materials used to produce plastics, and they are essential to the global supply chain due to their widespread use in various industries.
Firstly, it's important to understand that different freight classes exist, with 18 classes in total, ranging from 50 to 500. The lower the class number, the lower the freight charge. Freight classes are determined by factors such as weight, length, height, density, ease of handling, value, and liability from theft, damage, breakability, and spoilage.
When calculating the freight cost for plastic resins, one key consideration is their varying bulk densities. Plastic resins have different densities, which can make it challenging to determine the most efficient mode of transport and calculate freight costs. Additionally, certain plastic resins are prone to moisture absorption, which can lead to degradation or changes in their properties. This requires careful packaging and handling during transportation.
Temperature sensitivity is another factor that impacts the freight cost of plastic resins. Some plastic resins are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, requiring climate-controlled shipping arrangements to prevent melting, deformation, or brittleness. Regulatory compliance is also crucial, as shipping plastic resins involves adhering to international regulations, including proper labeling, documentation, and environmental and safety standards.
Furthermore, the cost of shipping plastic resins can be influenced by market conditions and disruptions to the global supply chain. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic caused significant increases in the price of plastic goods due to production shutdowns, labor shortages, and increased demand for plastic packaging materials, particularly in the healthcare industry for personal protective equipment (PPE).
To calculate the exact freight cost for shipping plastic resins, it is advisable to use a freight class calculator or consult a logistics partner specializing in shipping plastic resins, such as FreightCenter. They can provide personalized solutions, ensure safety and efficiency, and help navigate the unique requirements and challenges of shipping plastic resins.
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Frequently asked questions
The freight class for plastic resin can vary from freight class 55 to freight class 500. The class is determined by the type of resin and whether it is density-based or value-based.
Resin compounds associated with paint materials are density-based items.
NMFC 46030 contains all resins or resin compounds made of coal tar or petroleum.
A commodity's freight class is determined by its density, stow-ability, handling, and liability.
Your LTL freight class helps determine your shipping cost. It is calculated based on how difficult your commodity is to ship and how much liability is involved.
