ShipReady tool
CBM Calculator for Shipping Cartons, Pallets and Cargo
CBM means cubic metre and is used to describe how much physical space cargo occupies. Freight forwarders often request CBM when quoting sea freight, air freight, road freight and warehousing services.
Best use cases for CBM planning
- Small importers estimating carton or pallet volume
- Exporters preparing freight quote details
- Ecommerce sellers comparing courier, air and sea options
- Warehouse teams checking cargo space requirements
Package dimensions
Add one row for each carton, pallet, crate, or package size.
Total CBM
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Enter package dimensions and quantity to calculate total CBM.
Package row 1
CBM formula and measurement logic
For dimensions in centimeters: CBM per package = length x width x height / 1,000,000.
For dimensions in meters: CBM per package = length x width x height.
For dimensions in inches: convert inches to meters first, or divide cubic inches by 61,023.7441.
CBM example with transport dimensions
A shipment contains 25 cartons. Each carton measures 60 x 40 x 40 cm. CBM per carton: (60 x 40 x 40) / 1,000,000 = 0.096 CBM. Total shipment CBM: 0.096 x 25 = 2.40 CBM.
CBM measurement mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting to multiply by the total number of cartons
- Using product dimensions instead of outer carton dimensions
- Excluding pallet dimensions when the pallet changes the transport size
- Mixing centimetres, metres and inches in one calculation
FAQ
What does CBM mean in shipping?
CBM means cubic meter. Freight forwarders use it to understand how much space cargo takes in a container, truck, warehouse, or aircraft.
Should I include all cartons in the CBM calculation?
Yes. Calculate each package row and multiply by the number of packages, then add all rows together for total shipment CBM.
Is CBM the same as chargeable weight?
No. CBM measures volume. Chargeable weight compares actual gross weight with volumetric weight and uses carrier-specific divisors.
Do I calculate CBM using carton size or product size?
Use the outer carton, pallet or crate dimensions used for transport, not the individual product dimensions inside the package.
Should pallet dimensions be included?
If cargo is shipped on pallets and the pallet changes the outside shipping dimensions, include the palletized dimensions requested by the forwarder or warehouse.
Does CBM affect freight charges?
Yes, CBM may affect sea freight, road freight, warehousing and bulky cargo quotes. Final pricing depends on the carrier and service.
Can I use CBM for air freight and sea freight?
Yes. CBM is useful for both, but air freight billing may also use chargeable weight based on volumetric weight.