Home / Guides
How to Calculate CBM for Shipping
CBM (cubic meters) measures cargo volume. Freight forwarders use it for LCL pricing and to plan containers.
Formula (centimeters)
CBM = Length × Width × Height × Quantity ÷ 1,000,000
If dimensions are in meters: CBM = L × W × H × Qty. For inches, convert to cm first (×2.54) or use our calculator unit switch.
Worked example
Cartons: 60 × 40 × 40 cm, quantity 100.
Volume per carton = 60×40×40 = 96,000 cm³ = 0.096 CBM.
Total = 0.096 × 100 = 9.6 CBM.
CBM vs volumetric weight
CBM is pure volume. Volumetric weight turns volume into a kg figure for air/courier charging. They are related but not the same.
Open free CBM calculatorFAQ
What does CBM mean?+
Cubic meters — the volume of your cargo used in ocean and many logistics quotes.
Do I use inner or outer carton size?+
Use the outer carton dimensions that occupy space in the container or vehicle.
Can I mix carton sizes?+
Yes. Calculate each size as its own line, then sum total CBM.