CBM Calculator for Shipping
Calculate Cubic Meters (CBM) for shipping. Determine cargo volume to estimate shipping costs and container requirements.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the length, width, and height of your cargo.
- Select the unit (cm, m, inches, or feet).
- Enter the quantity (number of items).
- The calculator displays the total CBM and cubic feet.
- Use this to estimate shipping costs and plan container loading.
CBM Formula
CBM is calculated from dimensions and quantity:
(All dimensions in meters)
Example: Box 100cm × 50cm × 30cm, quantity 10: Convert to meters (1m × 0.5m × 0.3m), CBM = 1 × 0.5 × 0.3 × 10 = 1.5 m³. For 1 cubic foot = 0.0283168 m³, so 1.5 m³ = 52.97 CFT.
Full Description
CBM (Cubic Meters) is a standard unit of volume used in international shipping and logistics. It measures the three-dimensional space occupied by cargo, which is essential for calculating shipping costs, determining container capacity, and planning cargo loading. Understanding CBM helps shippers estimate costs, optimize space utilization, and plan shipments efficiently.
Shipping costs are typically calculated based on either weight or volume (CBM), whichever is greater. For lightweight, bulky items, carriers charge by CBM. For heavy, dense items, they charge by weight. This ensures carriers are compensated fairly regardless of cargo characteristics. CBM calculations are also used to determine how many items fit in a container and to optimize loading efficiency.
This calculator helps you determine CBM for your cargo. Enter dimensions and quantity, and it calculates total CBM and cubic feet. Use it to estimate shipping costs, plan container loading, understand cargo volume, or calculate freight charges. CBM calculations are essential for international shipping, logistics planning, and cost estimation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CBM?
CBM stands for Cubic Meters, a unit of volume used in shipping and logistics. It represents the three-dimensional space occupied by cargo. CBM is used to calculate shipping costs, container capacity, and freight charges.
How do I calculate CBM?
CBM = Length × Width × Height (all in meters) × Quantity. For example, a box 1m × 0.5m × 0.3m: CBM = 1 × 0.5 × 0.3 = 0.15 m³. For 10 boxes: 0.15 × 10 = 1.5 m³. The calculator handles unit conversions automatically.
Why is CBM important for shipping?
Shipping costs are often based on volume (CBM) or weight, whichever is greater. Carriers charge by CBM for lightweight, bulky items. Understanding CBM helps estimate shipping costs, plan container loading, and optimize cargo space.
How many CBM fit in a container?
20ft container: ~33 CBM (usable). 40ft container: ~67 CBM (usable). 40ft High Cube: ~76 CBM (usable). Actual capacity depends on cargo shape and loading efficiency. Always check with your carrier for exact capacity.