NMFC Class 70 — Household Goods
Hand and power tools ship at freight class 65–85 depending on packaging. Tool sets in cases tend to be moderately dense.
Typical class: 70 · Density: 15–30 lbs/cu ft
Shipment Dimensions (inches)
| Class | Density (lbs/cu ft) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | 50+ | Heaviest, most dense freight |
| 55 | 35–50 | Very dense freight |
| 60 | 30–35 | Dense freight |
| 65 | 22.5–30 | Moderately dense |
| 70 | 15–22.5 | Average density |
| 77.5 | 13.5–15 | Slightly below average |
| 85 | 12–13.5 | Below average density |
| 92.5 | 10.5–12 | Light freight |
| 100 | 9–10.5 | Light freight |
| 110 | 8–9 | Light, bulky freight |
| 125 | 7–8 | Bulky freight |
| 150 | 6–7 | Very bulky freight |
| 175 | 5–6 | Very light, bulky |
| 200 | 4–5 | Extremely light |
| 250 | 3–4 | Extremely light, high value |
| 300 | 2–3 | Low density, high handling |
| 400 | 1–2 | Very low density |
| 500 | 0–1 | Lowest density, highest cost |
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NMFC Class 70 — packaging, handling, and freight class details
Hand and power tools move through multiple distribution channels — home improvement retail (Home Depot, Lowe's), industrial supply distributors (Grainger, Fastenal), hardware wholesalers, and direct-to-trade jobsite delivery. Major brands like Stanley Black & Decker, Milwaukee Tool, DeWalt, and Snap-on operate large-scale distribution networks. The professional contractor segment drives significant volume, as construction activity directly correlates with tool demand. Power tool cordless platform expansions (each brand's battery ecosystem) have driven strong category growth over the past decade.
Freight class for hand and power tools is Class 65–85. A cordless drill with battery and charger in retail packaging weighs 4–5 lbs and occupies 0.5 cubic feet — 8–10 lbs/cuft, Class 85. A case of 6 packaged drill sets might achieve 12–15 lbs/cuft, Class 85. Hand tools in bulk — boxes of screwdrivers, hammer sets, plier assortments — are denser, potentially reaching Class 65–70 on well-packed pallets. Tool chests and cabinets with steel construction can hit Class 70 or better.
The security concern with power tools is significant. Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Snap-on tools are high-value and highly liquid in secondary markets. Tool freight is a frequent target for cargo theft — particularly loads moving between the manufacturer's distribution center and retail stores. Carriers should use cargo seals, opaque wrap on pallets, and secure overnight parking for tool loads. Piece count discrepancies at delivery are a common issue with high-value tools; document count carefully at pickup.
Lithium-ion batteries that power modern cordless tools can be a hazmat consideration. Large quantities of lithium-ion batteries may require compliance with DOT regulations for lithium batteries (UN3480/UN3481). Individual tool packages with small batteries are generally exempt when properly packaged by the manufacturer. Carriers taking large pallet quantities of lithium-battery tools should verify the shipment's hazmat classification with the shipper. Rate context: tool freight at Class 65–85 pays fair to good rates. High-value brand-name tool accounts offer premium security requirements that command above-average rates.
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