Shipping economics
CBM Calculator (Cubic Meters)
CBM = volume in cubic meters — the unit freight forwarders quote LCL sea freight by. Enter carton dimensions and quantity to get total CBM and container fit.
Reviewed by BoringToolsKit · September 1, 2026 · Example rates, editable — not carrier quotes.
How the estimate works
CBM per carton = L(m) × W(m) × H(m) = L(cm) × W(cm) × H(cm) ÷ 1,000,000. Total = per-carton CBM × cartons. Container capacity ≈ 33 cbm (20ft), 67 cbm (40ft), 76 cbm (40ft HC) — real fit is lower after stacking inefficiency.
Calculator
Total volume
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Rate tables below are editable example defaults for modeling, not carrier quotes. Actual prices vary by negotiated rates, surcharges, and season. Confirm final cost with the carrier before shipping.
Formula and assumptions
CBM = L × W × H in meters (or cm product ÷ 1,000,000). Container nominal capacities: 20ft ≈ 33 cbm, 40ft ≈ 67 cbm, 40ft HC ≈ 76 cbm. Practical load is 85-92% of nominal after stacking and dunnage. Chargeable weight for air is 1 cbm ≈ 167 kg.
CBM Calculator (Cubic Meters) questions
How do I calculate CBM?
Multiply length × width × height in meters. A 60×40×40 cm carton is 0.096 CBM. Multiply by carton count for the shipment total.
How many CBM is a 40ft container?
About 67 CBM nominal (76 for a High Cube), but plan on 85-90% usable after stacking inefficiency and dunnage.
What is chargeable weight for air freight?
Airlines charge by the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight (1 CBM ≈ 167 kg standard IATA divisor 6000).