Cbm Calculator
Calculate Cubic Meters (CBM) for shipping containers and freight. Measure your cargo volume for accurate international shipping quotes and container space planning.
Enter Package Dimensions
Quick Examples:
CBM Results
Enter package dimensions to calculate CBM
How to Use the CBM Calculator
Step 1: Select Your Unit
Choose the measurement unit you're using: centimeters (most common for international shipping), inches (common in US), or meters (for large shipments).
Step 2: Enter Dimensions
Enter the length, width, and height of your package. For multiple packages of the same size, use the quantity field instead of adding separate entries.
Step 3: Add More Packages
If you have packages of different sizes, click "Add Another Package" to include them all in your total CBM calculation.
Step 4: Review Results
Click "Calculate CBM" to see your total cubic meter volume and how it fits in standard shipping containers. Use this for freight quotes and container planning.
💡 Pro Tip
When measuring packages, always measure the outer dimensions including packaging and any protrusions. Freight companies charge based on the space your cargo occupies, not the product dimensions alone.
CBM Calculation Formulas
CBM Formula (Centimeters)
CBM = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 1,000,000
When dimensions are in centimeters, divide by 1,000,000 to convert cubic centimeters to cubic meters.
CBM Formula (Inches)
CBM = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 61,023.7
When dimensions are in inches, divide by 61,023.7 to convert cubic inches to cubic meters.
CBM Formula (Meters)
CBM = Length × Width × Height
When dimensions are already in meters, simply multiply to get cubic meters.
Example Calculation
Box: 60cm × 40cm × 50cm
Volume = 60 × 40 × 50 = 120,000 cm³
CBM = 120,000 ÷ 1,000,000 = 0.12 CBM
Multiple Packages
10 boxes @ 0.12 CBM each
Total CBM = 0.12 × 10 = 1.2 CBM
≈ 3.6% of a 20ft container
Shipping Container Sizes
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions | Capacity (CBM) | Max Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | 5.9m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 33.2 CBM | 28,200 kg |
| 40ft Standard | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 67.7 CBM | 28,800 kg |
| 40ft High Cube | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.69m | 76.3 CBM | 28,600 kg |
| 45ft High Cube | 13.56m × 2.35m × 2.69m | 86.0 CBM | 27,600 kg |
* Actual usable space may be slightly less due to door mechanisms and forklift access requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CBM stand for?
CBM stands for Cubic Meter, which is the standard unit of measurement for shipping volume in international trade. One cubic meter equals 1,000 liters or approximately 35.3 cubic feet.
Why is CBM important for shipping?
Freight companies use CBM to calculate shipping costs, especially for sea freight and air cargo. Your shipping rate is typically based on either the actual weight or the volumetric weight (calculated from CBM), whichever is greater.
How do I convert CBM to cubic feet?
Multiply CBM by 35.3147 to get cubic feet. For example, 1 CBM = 35.31 cubic feet. Conversely, divide cubic feet by 35.3147 to get CBM.
What's the difference between FCL and LCL shipping?
FCL (Full Container Load) means you rent the entire container regardless of how much space you use. LCL (Less than Container Load) means you share container space with other shipments and pay based on your CBM. LCL is cost-effective for smaller shipments under 15 CBM.
How much CBM fits in a 20ft container?
A standard 20ft shipping container has a capacity of approximately 33.2 CBM (1,172 cubic feet). However, practical loading capacity is usually around 25-28 CBM due to packaging inefficiencies and palletization.
Should I measure from inside or outside the box?
Always measure the outer dimensions of your packages. Freight companies calculate space based on the actual space your cargo occupies in the container, including all packaging materials.
What is weight-to-CBM ratio?
The weight-to-CBM ratio helps determine if your cargo is 'heavy' or 'light' for shipping purposes. Sea freight typically considers 1 CBM = 1,000 kg as the break-even point. If your cargo weighs less than 1,000 kg per CBM, you'll be charged by volume; if more, by weight.
How accurate does my CBM calculation need to be?
For quotes, approximate dimensions within 5cm are usually acceptable. For final billing, freight companies will verify measurements. It's better to slightly overestimate than underestimate to avoid surprises on your invoice.
Related Shipping Calculators
Understanding CBM in Shipping
CBM (Cubic Meter) is the fundamental measurement unit in international shipping logistics. Whether you're shipping goods by sea, air, or land, understanding CBM helps you estimate costs, plan container usage, and negotiate better freight rates.
When to Use CBM Calculations
- Sea Freight: CBM is the primary billing unit for ocean shipping, especially LCL shipments.
- Air Freight: Airlines use volumetric weight (based on CBM) to determine charges for lightweight cargo.
- Warehouse Storage: Storage fees are often calculated per CBM per day or month.
- Customs Declarations: Some countries require CBM information on shipping documents.
Tips for Reducing Shipping Costs
- Optimize Packaging: Use smaller boxes when possible to reduce wasted space.
- Stack Efficiently: Design packaging that allows for stable, space-efficient stacking.
- Consolidate Shipments: Combine multiple small shipments to approach FCL volumes for better rates.
- Consider Knockdown Packaging: Ship products unassembled to reduce CBM when feasible.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes. Actual shipping costs depend on carrier-specific pricing, fuel surcharges, seasonal rates, origin/destination, and cargo type. Always confirm measurements and rates with your freight forwarder or carrier before booking.