How do you calculate CBM (Cubic Meters)?

CBM is calculated as Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) × Number of Cartons. For measurements in centimeters, the formula is (Length × Width × Height in cm) / 1,000,000 × Quantity.

How does Air Volumetric Weight work?

Airlines charge based on the greater of Gross Weight or Volumetric Weight. The standard volumetric formula is (Length × Width × Height in cm) / 5000 (courier standard) or / 6000 (IATA cargo standard). If your carton is lightweight but large, you pay for the space it occupies.

How many CBM can fit in a 20ft and 40ft container?

A standard 20ft container (20GP) holds approximately 28 to 30 usable CBM (max 33 CBM). A 40ft standard container (40GP) holds about 56 to 60 usable CBM (max 67 CBM). A 40ft High Cube (40HQ) holds approximately 68 to 72 usable CBM (max 76 CBM).

Smart CBM & Volumetric Weight Calculator (Air vs Sea)

1 Package Carton Specifications

Presets:

Air Volumetric Divisor: Courier Standard (÷5000) IATA Airline Cargo (÷6000)

Total Volume

0.00 CBM

0.0 CFT · 0 Cartons

Actual Gross Weight

0.0 kg

Air Volumetric Weight

0.0 kg

Chargeable

Container Space Utilization LCL Shipment

20ft Standard (33 CBM) 0% filled

40ft Standard (67 CBM) 0% filled

40ft High Cube (76 CBM) 0% filled

✈️ Air Cargo (Door)

₹0

5–8 Days

🚢 Sea LCL (Door)

₹0

25–30 Days

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How CBM and Volumetric Billing Work

Master freight volume math to save up to 40% on air and ocean shipments.

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The CBM Formula

Cubic Meter (CBM) represents the volume of your cargo: Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m). For cartons measured in centimeters, multiply (L × W × H) ÷ 1,000,000. To convert CBM to Cubic Feet (CFT), multiply CBM by 35.315.

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Why Divisor 5000 vs 6000?

Cargo planes have strict volume limits. Commercial express couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) typically use a divisor of 5000 (1 CBM = 200 kg). IATA airline cargo often uses 6000 (1 CBM = 167 kg), which gives a slightly lower chargeable weight for air cargo.

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The "Air in the Box" Penalty

If you ship lightweight items like apparel, foam, or empty bottles in oversized master cartons, you will pay hefty air freight on empty space. Always request Chinese factories to nest items, vacuum pack, or trim carton heights to match exact contents.

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When to Choose Sea LCL vs FCL

For shipments between 1 CBM and 15 CBM, Sea LCL (Less than Container Load) is by far the most economical choice. Once your volume exceeds 14–16 CBM, booking a dedicated 20ft Full Container (FCL) becomes cheaper and reduces port transit risks.