Maker Label Studio

CBM (Cubic Meter) Shipping Calculator

Calculate freight cubic volume, actual weight, volumetric weight, and chargeable weight for air, sea LCL, and road shipments.

Shipment inputs

Enter carton dimensions, carton count, and actual carton weight for each shipping line.

Volumetric factor
167 kg/CBM
Line Length Width Height Dim unit Cartons Weight/carton Wt unit Remove
CBM = L(m) x W(m) x H(m) x cartons. Chargeable weight = max(actual kg, CBM x factor).

Results report

Totals are calculated from valid carton lines using the selected Logistics & Shipping volumetric factor.

Total CBM
0.0000
cubic meters
Total weight
0.00
kg actual
Volumetric weight
0.00
kg equivalent
Chargeable weight
0.00
kg billed
Mode
Air freight
Factor
167 kg/CBM
Calculated
-
Line Dimensions Cartons CBM Actual kg Volumetric kg Line chargeable kg

Cited category: Logistics & Shipping. This calculator applies the freight cubic-volume convention and the specified formula: CBM = L(m) x W(m) x H(m) x cartons; chargeable weight = max(actual weight, CBM x volumetric factor).

Self-tests have not been run.

About the CBM (Cubic Meter) Shipping Calculator

Importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and warehouse teams use a CBM calculator to convert carton dimensions and quantities into cubic meters for shipping quotes and load planning. Enter length, width, height, carton count, and weight to compare actual volume with chargeable weight rules. It helps avoid surprises when air, ocean, or LCL freight is rated by space instead of weight.

How it works

  1. Enter each carton or pallet length, width, and height.
  2. Choose the dimension unit and add the number of identical pieces.
  3. Calculate total cubic meters for the shipment.
  4. Compare actual weight with volumetric or weight-measure chargeable weight.
  5. Share the result with the forwarder using packed dimensions.

Frequently asked questions

How is CBM calculated for shipping?

CBM is length times width times height in meters, multiplied by the number of cartons. If dimensions are in centimeters, convert each dimension to meters before multiplying.

Why does freight billing use chargeable weight?

Carriers charge by the greater of actual weight and dimensional weight when cargo is bulky for its weight. This protects capacity on aircraft, containers, trucks, and warehouses.

Is air freight CBM rated the same as ocean freight?

No. Air freight often uses a volumetric divisor, while ocean LCL often uses weight-measure rules where one cubic meter may be compared with a weight threshold. Confirm the carrier or forwarder tariff.

Should pallet dimensions be included?

Yes, use the packed shipping dimensions, including pallets, overhang, wrapping, and any protective frame. Booking from product-only dimensions can understate chargeable volume.

Does CBM prove container compliance?

No. CBM helps estimate space, but container loading also depends on gross weight, axle limits, package strength, stackability, lashing, hazardous goods rules, and verified gross mass requirements.

References