XBKit·B2B / Export

CBM Calculator

Calculate cubic metres for sea freight and volumetric weight for air freight. Essential for getting accurate shipping quotes.

Carton Dimensions
cm
cm
cm
kg

Air Freight Volumetric

Factor: CBM × 167 = volumetric weight (kg)

Chargeable = max(actual weight, volumetric weight)

Sea freight charged by CBM or ton, whichever is higher

Formula
CBM per Carton=L × W × H ÷ 1,000,000
  • Volumetric weight (air) = CBM × 167kg
  • Chargeable = max(actual, volumetric)
  • 20' FCL25 – 28 CBM
  • 40' FCL / 40'HC55 – 58 / 68 – 72 CBM

How to Use

  1. 1

    Enter carton dimensions

    Input the length, width, and height of each carton in centimetres (or inches). The tool converts to CBM automatically.

  2. 2

    Add carton quantity

    Enter the number of cartons of each size. Add multiple carton types for mixed shipments.

  3. 3

    View total CBM and volumetric weight

    The tool calculates total CBM, volumetric weight for sea (1 CBM = 1000 kg) and air freight (volumetric divisor 5000 or 6000).

  4. 4

    Use for freight quotes

    Share total CBM with your freight forwarder to get accurate LCL or FCL shipping quotes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CBM in shipping?

CBM (Cubic Metre) measures the volume of a shipment. It is calculated as Length × Width × Height ÷ 1,000,000 (when dimensions are in centimetres). Freight forwarders use CBM to price LCL (less-than-container-load) ocean freight.

What is volumetric weight and why does it matter?

Volumetric weight (also called dimensional weight) is a pricing technique used by airlines and couriers. If a package is light but large, you're charged based on the volumetric weight instead of the actual weight — whichever is greater.

How many CBM fits in a 20-foot container (FCL)?

A standard 20ft container holds approximately 25–28 CBM of cargo. A 40ft standard container holds 55–60 CBM, and a 40ft high-cube holds 65–67 CBM. LCL shipments under 15 CBM are typically cheaper than booking an FCL.

How do I convert inches to CBM?

Convert each dimension from inches to cm (multiply by 2.54), then calculate L × W × H ÷ 1,000,000. Alternatively, this tool accepts input in both units.

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