CBM Calculator
Calculate CBM for single or multiple cartons in cm, metres, inches or feet. See cubic feet, volumetric weight and container fit instantly.
CBM calculator: the essentials
Use the calculator above to total your shipment volume, convert it to cubic feet, and check its fit against standard dry containers. For the full method, conversions, and freight context, read our guide to calculating CBM for shipping.
How to calculate CBM
CBM is calculated by multiplying length × width × height in metres. When dimensions are in centimetres, divide the result by 1,000,000. Multiply by quantity for identical cartons and add each carton type for mixed shipments. The calculator uses the outer packed dimensions you enter.
Calculation methodology and verification
Created and maintained by: the CalculatorApp.me product team.
Last formula and source verification: 29 July 2026
- Rectangular cartons, palletised loads, and custom cargo use outer length × width × height × quantity.
- Cylinders can use mathematical volume (πr²h) or a carrier-planning bounding box; the selected method appears in the result.
- Cubic feet use 1 CBM = 35.3147 ft³. Dimensional-weight estimates use the factor selected from your carrier's quotation.
Calculation disclaimer: this tool provides volume and planning estimates. It is not a freight quotation, certified load plan, or carrier billing determination. Confirm equipment dimensions, dimensional-weight factors, rounding, and charges with your carrier or forwarder.
A named “Reviewed by” badge is displayed above the calculator only when an active logistics reviewer record with credentials is available.
What CBM means
CBM means cubic metre (m³), the volume occupied by packed cargo. Freight forwarders commonly use it to describe shipment size, especially for less-than-container-load quotes. Measure the outside dimensions of each carton, crate, or pallet, including packaging.
CBM formula by unit
| Dimensions entered in | Formula |
|---|---|
| Metres | L × W × H |
| Centimetres | (L × W × H) ÷ 1,000,000 |
| Inches | (L × W × H) ÷ 61,023.74 |
Worked example: the default demonstration carton measures 75 cm × 50 cm × 40 cm, so (75 × 50 × 40) ÷ 1,000,000 = 0.15 CBM.
How to calculate CBM for multiple cartons
Calculate each carton size separately, multiply it by that line's quantity, then add the line totals. In the calculator, add one product row for every different carton size; it totals the shipment automatically.
CBM versus weight
CBM measures space; gross weight measures mass. A carrier may price a shipment by whichever measure produces the applicable chargeable weight, so enter both dimensions and weight when you have them. Air-freight volumetric formulas and freight-provider rules vary by service—confirm the divisor and tariff in your quotation.
Standard dry-container capacity
These are approximate internal volumes before allowing for loading gaps, cargo shape, packaging, and payload limits.
| Container | Approx. volume | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 20 ft standard | 33.2 CBM | Smaller dense shipments |
| 40 ft standard | 67.7 CBM | General dry cargo |
| 40 ft high cube | 76.3 CBM | Taller, lighter cargo |
| 45 ft high cube | 86.0 CBM | High-volume dry cargo |
Capacity reference: ISO 668:2020 container classification, dimensions and ratings. For refrigerated, liquid, oversized, or hazardous cargo, use the equipment and loading requirements supplied by your carrier or freight forwarder.
Frequently asked questions
What is CBM and how is it calculated?▾
What is the difference between CBM and volumetric weight?▾
How many CBM fit in a 20 ft shipping container?▾
How does volumetric weight affect air freight costs?▾
What is the chargeable weight formula?▾
What dimensions should I use for CBM calculation?▾
Sources and standards
- ISO 668:2020, Series 1 freight containers — Classification, dimensions and ratings.
- IATA air-cargo tariffs and rules; confirm the applicable dimensional-weight divisor with your carrier.
- UPS dimensional-weight guidance, an example of a carrier rule that can vary by rate type and service.
CBM Calculator — Answer & Method
Calculate cubic meter volume for shipping and freight.
Formula: Cubic Meter
CBM = Length(m) × Width(m) × Height(m)
Example Calculation
10 packages of 1.2×0.8×1.0m = 9.6 CBM total.
Important limitation
Check the result against your specific circumstances before making a decision.
Key Facts
- CBM (Cubic Meter) is the standard unit for measuring freight volume in international shipping.
- A standard 20ft container holds approximately 33 CBM.
Sources & Validation
Related Calculators
Related Articles
How to Calculate CBM for Shipping
The exact formula with worked examples, cm/inch conversions, and container limits.
Read article →Volumetric Weight Explained
The ÷6,000, ÷5,000 and ÷3,000 divisors — and how chargeable weight sets your invoice.
Read article →LCL vs FCL: The 15 CBM Rule
When to stop paying per CBM and book a full container instead.
Read article →20ft, 40ft & 40HC Container Capacity in CBM
Rated vs usable capacity, pallet counts, and payload limits for every container.
Read article →From CBM to Freight Cost
How per-CBM sea rates, chargeable-weight air rates, and road tariffs are built.
Read article →See Also
Container Load Calculator
Turn your total CBM into an optimized container load plan.
Freight Cost Estimator
Convert your CBM into sea, air & road freight cost estimates.
Shipping Weight Calculator
Check actual weight against container payload limits.
CM to Feet Converter
Convert mixed metric/imperial carton dimensions first.