New classifications for LTL freight go into effect July 19
As the U.S. system for classifying less-than-truckload freight undergoes significant revision effective July 19, 2025, C.H. Robinson has unveiled a new generative AI agent designed to help shippers navigate the changes and avoid costly disruptions.
Why this matters now
Many shippers are unaware or uncertain of the correct class and code for their freight now, and this is poised to increase with the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) overhaul. Errors can cause carrier inspections, shipment delays, reinvoicing, and unexpected charges. The new AI agent addresses this by automating classification.
How it works
As part of C.H. Robinson’s fleet of over 30 purpose-built AI agents, the new agent determines the freight class and code for emailed LTL tenders. For shippers using C.H. Robinson’s shipper platform or an API or EDI integration for LTL tenders, your freight classifications are already baked into our system. Now, emailed tenders can also be automatically processed.
The AI agent is already classifying roughly 2,000 LTL shipments a day in 10 seconds or less, reducing what might have taken C.H. Robinson’s LTL team 10 minutes per shipment to manually look up. On July 19, the AI agent will apply the new classifications.
Who benefits from LTL automation
- Shippers without a transportation management system: Gain immediate operational efficiency. Simply email your LTL tenders and our AI handles the classification.
- Shippers without an API or EDI integration: Continue emailing tenders or consider connecting your tech with ours.
- Existing customers with tech integrations: Continue enjoying the accuracy and speed of automated LTL orders.
- All shippers: Remember to supply accurate dimensions and weight for your LTL freight for optimal classification.
Bottom line for LTL shippers
C.H. Robinson’s AI classification tool is not just a novel innovation; it’s a strategic play to drive efficiencies in the supply chain. Small and mid-sized shippers who are heavy users of email could see gains in speed, reliability and cost control with no change to their existing workflow.
Regardless of your size or technology, all shippers need to be prepared for the NMFC changes on July 19. Preparing for changes and monitoring impacts will be critical to successfully and efficiently keep freight moving. For more details, watch this on-demand webinar on the NMFC changes.