PLC modules and accessories
Cartons of PLC modules on a pallet
48 × 40 × 24 in
Packaged weight: 310 lb
- Cubic feet
- 26.67
- Density
- 11.62lb/cu ft
Estimated class
92.5
92.5
PLC LTL Shipping Guide
Freight Class for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
To estimate your shipment, use the PLC Freight Class Calculator.
The PLC Freight Class Examples use the current 13-tier density scale, effective July 19, 2025, and range from Class 92.5–100.
These are density-based estimates.
PLC density calculator
Calculate Your PLC Freight Class
A controller chassis and I/O in a crate is preloaded as an example. Adjust the packaged dimensions or weight to calculate your plc freight class.
Your result
Cubic feet
18.75
Density
11.73
lb/cu ft
Estimated freight class
92.5
This is an example density-based estimate. Update any field to calculate your shipment.
PLC shipment examples
PLC Freight Class Examples
These examples use finished outside dimensions and total packaged weight. They show how three realistic plc shipment formats can produce different density-based class estimates.
PLC rack and chassis
Controller chassis and I/O in a crate
36 × 30 × 30 in
Packaged weight: 220 lb
- Cubic feet
- 18.75
- Density
- 11.73lb/cu ft
Estimated class
92.5
92.5
PLC control-system pallet
Controllers, I/O, HMIs, and accessories
48 × 40 × 42 in
Packaged weight: 420 lb
- Cubic feet
- 46.67
- Density
- 9.00lb/cu ft
Estimated class
100
100
PLC shipment comparison
PLC Freight Class by Shipment Format
PLC freight class can change with finished packaging, density, weight distribution, protective clearance, and stackability. Use the finished packaged dimensions and total weight rather than the unpackaged product size.
| PLC shipment | Typical packaging | Density tendency | Stackability | Planning note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLC modules and accessories | Cartons of PLC modules on a pallet | Medium to lower | Stackable | Use anti-static bags and separate terminal blocks and memory modules. This example calculates to 11.62 lb/cu ft and Class 92.5. |
| PLC rack and chassis | Controller chassis and I/O in a crate | Medium to lower | Limited | Brace installed modules and protect backplanes and connectors. This example calculates to 11.73 lb/cu ft and Class 92.5. |
| PLC control-system pallet | Controllers, I/O, HMIs, and accessories | Medium to lower | Stackable | Keep displays and processors in cushioned anti-static packaging. This example calculates to 9.00 lb/cu ft and Class 100. |
| Multi-piece or accessory shipment | Main plc package plus separately protected components, accessories, or mounting hardware | Varies | Confirm each piece | List every separate piece and include its finished dimensions, weight, packaging, and stackability in the quote request. |
PLC shipping options
How Shipping Method Affects PLC Freight Class
The appropriate service depends on finished dimensions, packaged weight, piece count, loading method, value, stackability, and whether specialized handling is required.
| PLC shipment | Common shipping option |
|---|---|
| PLC modules and accessories | LTL with packaging, stackability, and handling review |
| PLC rack and chassis | LTL with packaging, stackability, and handling review |
| PLC control-system pallet | LTL with packaging, stackability, and handling review |
| Multi-piece, high-value, or special-handling shipment | LTL, volume, partial truckload, dedicated, or specialized service after piece-count and handling review |
Individual controllers can ship parcel; complete PLC systems and mixed orders should move palletized LTL.
PLC Packaging, Stackability, and Damage Risk
PLC Packaging
- Anti-static protection, module restraint, connector covers, and separated accessories.
- Use anti-static bags and separate terminal blocks and memory modules.
- Brace installed modules and protect backplanes and connectors.
PLC Stackability
- Stackable in manufacturer cartons.
- Limited stacking in a rigid crate.
- Stackable with even carton loading.
PLC Fragility and Liability
- Bent backplane pins, electrostatic damage, cracked HMIs, and lost loose modules.
- Keep displays and processors in cushioned anti-static packaging.
- Confirm declared value, coverage, orientation, and any top-load or special-handling restrictions before tendering plc freight.
Before Requesting a PLC Freight Quote
How to Measure a Packaged PLC Shipment
- Measure after the plc is secured and all cartons, pallets, skids, crates, framing, and protective materials are complete.
- Include runners, legs, reels, doors, fittings, cables, brackets, accessories, overhang, and every projecting packaged component that applies.
- Measure to the longest, widest, and tallest finished point and use the total tendered shipment weight.
PLC Freight Quote Checklist
- Record the finished packaged length, width, height, quantity, and total weight.
- State whether the shipment is stackable and whether top loading or side loading is restricted.
- Include photos showing packaging, securement, labels, lift points, and exposed risk areas when practical.
- Describe the exact plc shipment format and list detached components, accessories, cables, mounting hardware, or separate pieces.
- Confirm forklift, dock, liftgate, crane, rigging, inside-delivery, or specialized loading requirements.
Freight Planning Calculators
Calculate and Plan Your PLC Shipment
Use the freight class, density, pallet, and linear-feet calculators to plan your packaged LTL shipment.
Freight Class Calculator
Estimate freight class from packaged dimensions, weight, and density.
Freight Density Calculator
Calculate cubic feet and pounds per cubic foot for packaged freight.
Pallet Freight Calculator
Plan pallet dimensions, shipment weight, density, and configuration.
Freight Linear Feet Calculator
Estimate trailer-space usage for pallets and non-stackable freight.
Freight classes shown on this page are density-based estimates for shipment planning. Actual classification may also depend on value, handling requirements, liability, stowability, dimensions, and other commodity-specific factors. Confirm the final freight class with your carrier, broker, or official NMFC resources before shipping. NMFC® is a registered trademark of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. FreightClassCalculator.tools is an independent calculator and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or licensed by NMFTA.