Calculate shipping volume in cubic meters (CBM) from packed outer dimensions and carton quantity. Add rows for different carton sizes.
Use the tool · Worked example · Limits and next steps
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Worked example
10 cartons × 50 × 40 × 30 cm = 0.60 m³. Add a second row for a different carton size.
The example is demonstration data. Replace it with your own current measurements and quote details.
Understand the limits
Pallets, cases and bracing can change the transport footprint. Volume alone does not give a freight price or guarantee that cargo fits through a container door.
Read the detailed guideWhat is CBM in shipping?
CBM means cubic meters (m³), a measure of shipment volume. For rectangular cartons, multiply the packed outer length, width and height, then multiply by the number of identical cartons. Add a separate row when carton sizes differ.
- Centimeters: CBM = L × W × H × cartons ÷ 1,000,000.
- Meters: CBM = L × W × H × cartons.
- Inches: multiply each dimension by 0.0254 to get meters before multiplying.
- Feet: multiply each dimension by 0.3048 to get meters before multiplying.
Example: one 50 × 40 × 30 cm carton is 0.06 m³. Ten cartons are 0.60 m³. In inches, a 20 × 16 × 12 inch carton is approximately 0.06293 m³; do not enter inch measurements while the unit selector is set to cm.
How to calculate CBM for mixed carton sizes
Calculate each packing configuration separately, then add the volumes. For example, 10 cartons at 50 × 40 × 30 cm contribute 0.60 m³, and 5 cartons at 60 × 40 × 40 cm contribute 0.48 m³. Together they are 1.08 m³ across 15 cartons. Use Add another row to reproduce this example in the calculator.
Do not average the dimensions of differently sized cartons. If a supplier gives only the product dimensions, request the packed outer carton measurements including protective packaging. Count a smaller partial carton using its own actual dimensions.
CBM, freight price and chargeable weight are different
One CBM is a volume of 1 × 1 × 1 meter. It is not a fixed number of kilograms or cartons. The weight depends on the contents, and the number of cartons depends on their sizes.
A freight quote may include a minimum billable volume, weight/measurement rules, handling and destination charges. Pallets and bracing can increase the footprint. The calculated CBM is not a freight quotation or a guarantee of container fit.
Next, compare gross and dimensional weight. If the carton count is unknown, first use the pieces-to-cartons calculator. For an existing quote, check average quoted freight cost per CBM.
CBM calculator questions
How do I calculate CBM from centimeters?
Multiply length, width and height in centimeters, multiply by carton quantity, and divide by 1,000,000. For 10 cartons at 50 × 40 × 30 cm, the result is 0.60 m³.
Is CBM the same as volumetric weight?
No. CBM measures volume. Volumetric weight converts that volume into a weight using a carrier or service divisor. Confirm the divisor before comparing it with the actual packed weight.
Should I measure the product or the carton?
For shipping carton volume, measure the packed outer carton. If the cargo is palletized, also confirm the palletized dimensions and how the forwarder measures the shipment.
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