National Motor Freight Classification® (NMFC)™ classification-related freight fraud occurs when shipment details are intentionally misrepresented—masking risk, value, or handling requirements to gain financial or operational advantage.
While some errors are accidental, repeated or strategic misclassification increases fraud exposure.
Read more as National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc.’s® (NMFTA)™ classification experts dive into four main topics that you need to be aware of:
How Classification Fraud Happens
Classification fraud may involve:
- Misstating commodity descriptions;
- Undervaluing or masking high-value freight;
- Avoiding special handling or security requirements; or
- Exploiting ambiguity in classification rules.
These actions can increase theft risk and disputes downstream.
Why Misclassification Increases Fraud Risk
Inaccurate LTL freight classification can:
- Make high-value freight less visible;
- Reduce security awareness;
- Enable disputes and chargebacks; or
- Increase insurance and liability exposure.
Fraudsters exploit ambiguity wherever it exists.
Intent vs. Error
It’s important to distinguish:
- Unintentional errors caused by lack of understanding; and
- Intentional misrepresentation designed to avoid cost or scrutiny.
Both create risk—but intentional abuse must be addressed.
Why Classification Integrity Matters
Accurate, consistent classification supports:
- Reduced opportunities for fraud;
- Better risk assessment;
- Fewer disputes;
- Improved trust between parties; and
- Reduced opportunities for fraud.
“Accurate classification of commodities goes well beyond determining the class and rate of a shipment, it let’s everyone know what is on that pallet and if it has any special requirements prior to shipping. Allowing the carrier to plan accurately for the shipment and decrease the occurrence of fraud”
Keith Peterson, vice president of operations, NMFTA