Cubic Meter (CBM) Calculator
Calculate exactly how much space your shipment will take up in a container. Find your total CBM, Cubic Feet, and the exact Chargeable Weight carriers will bill you for.
Last updated: March 3, 2026
Pro Tip: Shipping air freight? Cartons measuring 50x40x30 cm weigh "dimensionally" 10kg each. If your actual cargo is light (like pillows), you will still pay for 10kg.
Understanding Chargeable Weight
Shipping companies have limited space on planes and boats. If you ship something extremely light but bulky (like empty plastic bottles), they lose money if they only charge you by the actual pound. This is why Volumetric Weight exists.
Air Freight Rule (1:167)
For air freight, carriers assume that 1 Cubic Meter of space should weigh at least 167 kg. To find the chargeable weight, they take your total CBM and multiply it by 167. If this number is higher than the actual weight of your boxes on a scale, you pay the higher volume-based number.
Sea Freight Rule (LCL)
For sea freight, specifically LCL (Less than Container Load), the standard ratio is 1 CBM to 1000 kg (1 metric ton). If your shipment is 2 CBM and weighs 500 kg, you will be charged for 2 CBM. If your shipment is 2 CBM but contains heavy machinery weighing 3000 kg, you will be charged for the 3 tons.
Frequently Asked Questions
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