Shipment Items

Width
Height
Length
Qty
Unit

Shipment Summary

0.000
0.00 kg

Container Loading Guide

CBM = (W×H×L in meters) × Qty
Volume Weight = Total CBM × Factor

The CBM Calculator helps you find the cubic meter (CBM) of shipment items and estimate the volume weight for air or sea freight. This is useful for logistics, exporters, and importers to plan container space and shipping costs.

What is CBM?

CBM (Cubic Meter) is the volume of your cargo. It is calculated by multiplying the dimensions of the package in meters (Width × Height × Length). When you have multiple pieces, multiply the CBM of one package by the total quantity.

Formula

  • CBM = (Width × Height × Length in meters) × Quantity
  • Volume Weight = Total CBM × Freight Factor

Example Calculation

  • Dimensions: 100 cm × 100 cm × 100 cm
  • Quantity: 1

Convert to meters: 100 cm = 1 m

CBM = (1 × 1 × 1) × 1 = 1.000 CBM

Air Freight Volume Weight: 1 × 5000 = 5000 kg (using 1:5000 factor)

Container Loading Guide

  • 20' Standard: 28–33 CBM (around 3% tolerance)
  • 40' Standard: 56–67 CBM (around 1% tolerance)
  • 40' High Cube: 68–76 CBM (around 1% tolerance)

Why Use a CBM Calculator?

  • Helps in planning container loading.
  • Estimates shipping cost based on volume weight.
  • Compares actual weight vs. volume weight for air freight charges.
  • Avoids under or over-booking cargo space.

Tips

  • Always convert dimensions to meters before calculation.
  • Air freight uses volume weight factor (1:5000), meaning 1 CBM = 5000 kg chargeable weight.
  • For sea freight, total CBM decides how much space is needed in a container.
  • If you have multiple items, calculate each CBM and then sum them up.

FAQs

What does CBM stand for? CBM stands for Cubic Meter, which is the measurement of volume for cargo.

Why is CBM important in shipping? Shipping companies charge based on either actual weight or volume weight. CBM helps determine space required in containers.

What is volume weight? Volume weight (or dimensional weight) is a shipping calculation based on cargo volume, often used in air freight.

What factor is used for air freight? The standard factor is 1:5000, which means 1 CBM = 5000 kg.

Can I use CBM for LCL (Less than Container Load)? Yes, CBM is the standard unit used to calculate freight costs in LCL shipping.