CBM Calculator
Calculate the cubic metre volume of any carton, pallet, or full shipment. Enter your dimensions in any unit and get your CBM instantly.
What is CBM and why does it matter for shipping?
CBM in Ocean Freight
Less-than-container-load (LCL) ocean freight is priced per CBM. Carriers combine your cargo with other shippers' goods to fill a container. Your CBM tells you exactly how much space your shipment needs and what you'll pay.
CBM in Air Freight
Air carriers charge based on whichever is greater: actual weight or volumetric weight (CBM × 167). Light but bulky shipments often pay on volumetric weight, so calculating CBM first helps you avoid surprise invoices.
CBM in Warehousing
3PL warehouses charge storage fees based on the space your inventory occupies — typically per pallet position or per CBM. Accurate CBM figures help you forecast storage costs and optimize your replenishment cadence.
Common questions about CBM in shipping and warehousing
What does CBM mean?
CBM stands for Cubic Metre (also written as m³). It is the standard unit of measurement used in international shipping and warehousing to describe the volume of a shipment. Freight carriers, 3PLs, and customs brokers all use CBM to quote rates, calculate storage fees, and determine load capacity.
How is CBM calculated?
CBM is calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of a package in metres: CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m). If your dimensions are in centimetres, divide each by 100 first. For multiple cartons, multiply the single-unit CBM by the number of cartons.
What is CBM in warehousing?
In warehousing, CBM is used to measure the physical space a shipment occupies. Many 3PL providers charge storage fees per cubic metre or per pallet position, which is derived from CBM. Knowing your CBM helps you estimate monthly storage costs and plan inventory replenishment cycles.
Why does CBM matter for freight?
Ocean freight and air freight rates are often quoted per CBM (for LCL ocean) or per chargeable weight (for air, based on volumetric weight). Knowing your CBM upfront helps you compare carriers, choose the right shipping mode, and negotiate better rates.
What is the difference between CBM and chargeable weight?
CBM measures volume while weight measures mass. In air freight, carriers use volumetric (dimensional) weight calculated from CBM and charge whichever is higher — actual weight or volumetric weight. In ocean LCL freight, you typically pay per CBM. Understanding both helps you choose the most cost-effective shipping option.