CBM and sea freight
CBM is a core input for LCL planning and a useful space check for FCL. Container references are planning guides, not guaranteed loading capacity.
Interactive tool
CBM Calculator
Calculate shipment volume, gross weight and rough LCL/FCL suitability.
Help guide: How to Ask a China Freight Forwarder for a Quote
Shipping volume explained
How to calculate CBM for shipping from China
For cartons measured in centimeters, calculate length x width x height / 1,000,000 to get CBM per carton, then multiply by the carton quantity. Use the final outer packed dimensions. Inches are converted internally before the cubic-meter calculation.
Shipment formulaCBM per carton x number of cartons = total CBM
Volumetric weight
Air and express carriers can compare actual weight with dimensional weight. The divisor and rounding method vary by carrier and service, so confirm the live quote rule.
Common input mistakes
Do not enter product dimensions, mix centimeters and inches, omit carton quantity or use net product weight as gross carton weight.
What CBM does not include
CBM does not predict the final freight charge, duty, tax, destination fees, delivery scope or restricted-cargo handling.
After calculating, open the Freight Quote Brief Generator to send the same carton, weight, route and Incoterm details to each forwarder.
FAQ
How do I calculate CBM for cartons?
Multiply outer carton length by width by height, convert the result to cubic meters and multiply by the carton quantity. For centimeters, divide each carton result by 1,000,000.
Should I use product or carton dimensions?
Use the final outer packed-carton dimensions. Product dimensions usually understate shipment volume.
Does total CBM equal the final freight charge?
No. Route, chargeable weight, service, cargo type, minimum charges, destination fees and carrier rules also affect the quote.
Practical next action
Prepare a comparable freight request
Use the calculated volume, weight, route and delivery scope in one written brief.