Freight All Kinds, commonly called FAK, is a negotiated LTL pricing arrangement that can simplify freight-class billing across a range of commodities. Instead of rating every eligible shipment at its exact NMFC class, the agreement can assign multiple classes to a common negotiated class for pricing purposes.
FAK can reduce administrative friction, but it is not a universal exemption from classification rules. The agreement’s class range, exclusions, density requirements and carrier terms still control.
How an LTL FAK works
Suppose a shipper regularly moves products classified from class 70 through class 125. A negotiated FAK agreement might rate eligible freight in that range at class 85. The commercial value depends on the actual shipment mix: high-class freight can benefit more, while freight that would otherwise rate below the FAK class may not.
| Actual eligible class | Illustrative FAK class | Pricing effect |
|---|---|---|
| 70 | 85 | Could be less favorable |
| 85 | 85 | Neutral |
| 110 | 85 | Potentially favorable |
| 125 | 85 | Potentially favorable |
This is only an illustration; real agreements specify exact class ranges and commodities.
FAK does not mean “classification does not matter”
Carriers still need accurate commodity descriptions, weight and dimensions. Some commodities can be excluded from an FAK, and misdescribed freight can still create billing disputes. Density-based rules also matter more after recent NMFC changes.
Use the Freight Density Calculator to validate density and read Freight Density and NMFC Changes in 2026 for the current classification context.
Why shippers negotiate FAK agreements
- simpler rating across mixed commodities,
- more predictable class assumptions,
- potential savings on higher-class freight,
- fewer internal classification decisions for recurring eligible products.
The strongest candidates tend to have meaningful LTL volume and a stable mix of commodities spanning several classes.
Where FAK can create surprises
A shipper can overestimate savings if it looks only at the highest classes in the range. Model the shipment mix by weight and frequency. If 80% of your freight already rates below the negotiated FAK class, the agreement can be less attractive than expected.
Also distinguish LTL FAK from the term “freight all kinds” used in ocean shipping. In ocean freight, FAK can refer to generalized rates across commodity groups and lanes; that is a different pricing context.
How to evaluate an FAK proposal
- List your actual NMFC classes and shipment frequency.
- Separate commodities excluded by the proposal.
- Calculate spend under actual classes.
- Re-rate the same historical shipments using the proposed FAK class.
- Add minimum charges, fuel and accessorials unchanged.
- Review reclassification and audit language.
The Freight Cost Allocation Calculator can help distribute the resulting freight cost across product groups.
Frequently asked questions
Does FAK eliminate NMFC numbers?
No. Accurate commodity identification can still be required. FAK mainly changes how eligible classes are rated under the negotiated agreement.
Can every shipper get an FAK?
No. Availability and terms depend on carrier, broker, shipment profile and negotiated volume.
Can freight still be reclassified under FAK?
Yes, especially if the commodity is ineligible, misdescribed or outside the agreement’s conditions.
Sources
PackToolbox guides are built around stated formulas, practical examples and source checks for changeable carrier, freight and logistics rules. Calculators are planning aids; final requirements should be verified with the relevant carrier or service provider.