CBM (Cubic Meter) is the standard unit used in international shipping to measure how much space your cargo occupies. It is used for sea freight, air freight, and courier shipments and plays a major role in pricing and container selection.
Understanding how CBM is calculated helps avoid unexpected charges, incorrect container bookings, and shipment delays.
What Is CBM?
CBM = Cubic Meter
It measures volume, not weight.
Shipping companies use CBM to:
- Calculate freight charges (especially for LCL and air freight)
- Determine how much space your cargo uses
- Decide whether a shipment is suitable for a 20ft or 40ft container
⚠️ Important: CBM does not indicate how heavy your goods are. Weight must always be provided separately.
CBM Calculation Formula
Standard Formula (meters)
CBM = Length × Width × Height
- All measurements must be in meters (m)
- Measure the outer packaging, not just the product
- Include pallets, crates, and protective materials
Formula Using Centimeters (cm)
If measurements are taken in centimeters:
CBM = (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 1,000,000
Step-by-Step CBM Calculation Examples
✅ Example 1: Single Large Item
Product: Crated machine
Packed size:
- Length: 1.5 m
- Width: 1.2 m
- Height: 1.0 m
Calculation:
1.5 × 1.2 × 1.0 = 1.8 CBM
👉 This item occupies 1.8 cubic meters of shipping space.
✅ Example 2: Multiple Identical Cartons
Product: Boxed consumer goods
Carton size:
- 0.6 m × 0.4 m × 0.5 m
CBM per carton:
0.6 × 0.4 × 0.5 = 0.12 CBM
Quantity: 25 cartons
Total CBM:
0.12 × 25 = 3.0 CBM
👉 Even small cartons can quickly add up in total volume.
✅ Example 3: Palletized Cargo (Very Common Mistake)
Product: Goods packed on pallets
Pallet size (including cargo):
- Length: 1.2 m
- Width: 1.0 m
- Height: 1.6 m
CBM per pallet:
1.2 × 1.0 × 1.6 = 1.92 CBM
Quantity: 4 pallets
Total CBM:
1.92 × 4 = 7.68 CBM
⚠️ Important: Many customers forget to include pallet height, leading to under-declared CBM and extra charges.
CBM and Freight Charges (Very Important)
For LCL sea freight and air freight, shipping lines compare:
- Actual gross weight (kg)
- Volumetric weight, calculated as:
CBM × 1,000 kg
The freight charge is based on whichever is higher.
Example:
- Volume: 3 CBM
- Actual weight: 1,200 kg
- Volumetric weight: 3 × 1,000 = 3,000 kg
👉 Freight is charged as 3,000 kg, not 1,200 kg.
CBM vs Container Capacity
Approximate container volumes:
- 20ft container: ~33 CBM
- 40ft container: ~67 CBM
- 40ft High Cube: ~76 CBM
⚠️ For heavy goods, you may reach weight limits before using all CBM.
Common CBM Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring product size instead of packed size
- Forgetting to include pallets or crates
- Mixing centimeters and meters
- Providing CBM without total gross weight
- Assuming CBM equals weight
Information Required for an Accurate Quote
To avoid delays or additional costs, please provide:
- Carton or pallet dimensions (L × W × H)
- Total quantity
- Total gross weight (kg)
- Packing method (cartons, pallets, crates)
If you’re unsure how to calculate CBM, our team will calculate it for you and recommend the most cost-effective and compliant shipping option.