Calculator
CBM Calculator: Cargo Volume in m³ and Chargeable Measure
Enter the quantity, dimensions and weight of your boxes to see total volume (m³ and ft³), total weight, the chargeable W/M value for sea LCL and how full each container would be. Add a line for each box size.
What is CBM and how is it calculated?
CBM (cubic metre) is the volume your cargo occupies, in cubic metres; it is the same unit as m³. Formula:
CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) × Quantity
If dimensions are in centimetres, divide the product by 1,000,000.
- One 120 × 80 × 150 cm pallet: 1.2 × 0.8 × 1.5 = 1.44 m³
- 50 boxes of 60 × 40 × 40 cm: 0.6 × 0.4 × 0.4 × 50 = 4.8 m³
Sea LCL: the W/M rule
Less-than-container-load (LCL) sea freight is usually charged on a W/M (weight or measurement) basis: 1 m³ equals 1 tonne (1,000 kg) and the greater of the two is charged. This unit is called a revenue ton (RT).
- 3.2 m³ and 1,400 kg → 3.2 RT (volume is greater)
- 1.5 m³ and 2,600 kg → 2.6 RT (weight is greater)
Minimum charges and surcharges depend on the carrier’s tariff. For part loads see our LCL consolidation page.
Road groupage: volumetric weight
On the road, light and bulky cargo is charged by converting volume to weight. A common rule is 1 m³ = 333 kg; some carriers use a different factor or loading metres (LDM). You can change the factor in the calculator.
How full will each container be?
Not all of a container’s internal volume can be used; packaging gaps, door and securing space mean planning uses a lower fill. The calculator treats 85% of internal volume as usable by default; you can change it.
| Container | Internal volume (m³) | At 85% (m³) |
|---|---|---|
| 20′ DC | 33.20 | 28.2 |
| 40′ DC | 67.74 | 57.6 |
| 40′ HC | 76.30 | 64.9 |
| 45′ HC | 86.00 | 73.1 |
To see how many boxes fit in each container with a layout, use the container calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBM the same as m³?
Yes. CBM means cubic metre; 1 CBM = 1 m³.
How do I convert centimetres to m³?
Multiply length, width and height in centimetres and divide by 1,000,000. For example 60 × 40 × 40 cm = 96,000 cm³ = 0.096 m³.
How many cubic feet is 1 m³?
1 m³ is about 35.315 ft³.
How many CBM fit in a 20ft container?
A 20′ DC has 33.20 m³ internal volume. Because not all of it can be used, about 28 m³ is a common planning figure at an 85% fill factor.
How is LCL freight calculated?
Sea LCL freight usually follows the W/M rule: 1 m³ equals 1 tonne and the greater of the two is charged (revenue ton).
Send us the dimensions and the route; the relevant office will get back to you.