NMFTA Proposes Major Changes to Mixed Freight Rule 640: What U.S. Shippers Need to Know

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is considering significant updates to Rule 640, the long-standing provision governing how mixed freight shipments are classified when they are not fully itemized on the bill of lading. The proposal, currently open for industry feedback, could have widespread ripple effects across the Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) sector.

What’s Changing?

The most notable shift in the proposed rule is the introduction of a 13-sub density scale for classifying mixed freight shipments or handling units. This scale is not part of the current Rule 640.

According to LTL veteran Scooter Sayers, “However the NMFTA ends up modifying this rule, it will have a wide impact. It likely will impact how LTL carriers address this rule in their own rules tariffs.”

The proposal is the NMFTA’s second version after receiving industry pushback on an earlier draft reviewed in March. Feedback has included concerns about carriers removing packing lists during inspections, calls to standardize pallet dimensions, and requests to simplify requirements for fully itemized shipments.

The NMFTA states that advancements in technology — particularly dimensioners — make more detailed and accurate shipment evaluations practical, which is driving the push for a simplified yet more precise classification system.

Why This Matters for U.S. Shippers

For shippers, Rule 640 directly affects how mixed shipments are rated and billed. Changes to the rule could:

• Alter freight classification and density-based pricing

• Impact how carriers apply their own rules tariffs

• Increase or decrease accessorial charges related to mixed freight

• Require updates to shipping processes, documentation, and packaging standards

Sayers noted that while the proposal is “a helpful step forward in one sense,” it still retains some “punitive language to the shippers.”

Potential Operational Impacts

If adopted, shippers should prepare for:

• More granular density evaluations at the handling-unit level

• Possible changes in how mixed pallets and consolidated shipments are rated

• Increased scrutiny during carrier inspections

• The need to update internal shipping guidelines and carrier contracts

What Shippers Should Do Now

At Gain Consulting LLC, we recommend the following proactive steps:

• Review your current mixed freight shipping patterns and classification practices

• Submit feedback to the NMFTA before the comment period closes

• Evaluate how the proposed 13-sub density scale might affect your freight costs

• Begin discussions with your primary LTL carriers about potential tariff adjustments

• Consider updating packaging and documentation standards to prepare for more detailed evaluations

The final proposal is expected to appear on an upcoming NMFTA docket for formal review.

If your company ships mixed freight via LTL, this proposed rule change deserves close attention. Even small adjustments to classification can have a meaningful impact on your transportation spend.

Gain Consulting LLC specializes in helping U.S. shippers navigate complex LTL rules, tariffs, and carrier negotiations. If you’d like assistance reviewing the proposal, modeling potential cost impacts, or preparing feedback, we’re here to help.

Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation. Let’s make sure your voice is heard and your shipping costs stay optimized.

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