Consider a dimensioner for accuracy and savings
Unexpected freight costs and logistics headaches often stem from inaccurate freight dimensions. Dimensional weight pricing, misclassified freight, and billing disputes can all lead to unnecessary expenses. A dimensioner is an automated system that precisely measures the dimensions of a shipment in seconds using lasers. Combined with a scale, dimensioners can quickly and efficiently calculate the density of a shipment, offering both financial and operational benefits.
Cost savings and reductions in billing disputes
Discrepancies between a shipper’s recorded freight size and the carrier’s measurement can lead to reclassifications and chargebacks. Dimensioners remove human error from the equation. Shippers no longer have to make educated guesses about the freight class of their commodity. Plus, with machines providing precise measurements, there are fewer disputes, which prevents unexpected cost adjustments and can strengthen relationships with carriers.
Impact of the new NMFC changes
With the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) shifting freight classification to a density-based system on July 19, 2025, accurate measurements are now essential for LTL shippers. Freight class is increasingly determined by density (weight per cubic foot), and even small errors in dimensions can push a shipment into a higher-cost classification. This means that dimensioners will be even more important when these changes go live.
Which shippers will benefit the most?
Shippers with high volumes of small boxes, especially with various commodities, would see an outsized benefit from using a dimensioner.
Companies shipping bulky, oddly shaped, or non-standard freight (e.g., furniture, automotive parts, building materials) would benefit significantly. These shipments are difficult to measure manually, and density-based classification makes accuracy even more critical.
Actionable takeaway
Using a freight dimensioner can help accurately determine your shipment density. It may be a worthwhile investment for both immediate savings and long-term efficiency.
C.H. Robinson has collaborated with freight dimension vendors to provide discounts to our customers. For more information on taking advantage of these discounts, connect with your C.H. Robinson representative.