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CBM Calculator for Shipping

Estimate

Enter multi-carton dimensions to get total CBM, density, and a quick 20/40 container estimate.

  1. 1. Enter or paste cartons
  2. 2. Read CBM & suggested container
  3. 3. Copy / packing list
Length
Weight
Duplicate first size ×
#L (cm)W (cm)H (cm)QtyWt/kgLine CBM
19.6000
Running total: 9.6000 CBM· 1200 kgTotal CBM only mode →

About 1× 20GP at ~40.3% fill (estimate, 85% usable).

Total CBM

9.6000

Total weight

1200 kg

Density

125 kg/CBM

Container estimate

Assumes 85% usable volume

TypeQtyUtil.
20GPsuggested140.3%
40GP119.5%
40HC116.6%
45HC114.5%
How to hand-check this number

For each line in cm: L×W×H×Qty ÷ 1,000,000 = line CBM. Sum all lines. Sample 60×40×40×100 = 9.6 CBM. Container qty ≈ ceil(total CBM ÷ (internal × 0.85)).

⚠ Estimates only. Not a loading plan. Carriers may differ.

9.6000 CBM

About 1× 20GP at ~40.3% fill (estimate, 85% usable).

How it works

For each carton line (cm): L × W × H × Qty ÷ 1,000,000. Total CBM is the sum of all lines. Container qty uses max(volume need, weight need) with 85% usable volume (planning voids — not a load plan).

Tips: paste Excel rows via Paste, copy a summary for WhatsApp, or open a Share link with the same cartons.

Worked example

Sample: 60×40×40 cm × 100 cartons @ 12 kg = 9.6 CBM, 1,200 kg, density 125 kg/CBM. Use Load sample to try it.

FAQ

How do you calculate CBM for shipping?+

In centimeters: CBM = Length × Width × Height × Quantity ÷ 1,000,000. Sum each carton line for total CBM.

Is CBM the same as volumetric weight?+

No. CBM is volume in cubic meters. Volumetric weight converts volume into a chargeable kg figure using a carrier divisor.

How many CBM fit in a 20ft container?+

A 20GP is typically about 28 CBM internal volume. We assume 85% usable (~23.8 CBM) for planning estimates.

Why is my container estimate not exact?+

Real loads depend on carton stacking, weight limits, equipment, and packing efficiency. This tool is not a 3D loading plan.

Related tools

Results are estimates for planning only. Container capacities, payload limits, and dimensional weight divisors vary by carrier. Document outputs are templates only — not legal or customs advice.