Cubic Meter (CBM)
The standard unit of cargo volume — length × width × height in meters — and the basis for sea LCL/FCL space planning.
CBM (Cubic Meter) is the universal unit for the space a shipment occupies. The formula is length × width × height in meters; if you measure in centimeters, multiply the three sides and divide by 1,000,000 to convert to cubic meters. Total volume = per-carton CBM × number of cartons.
Key points:
- Quoting, booking, and LCL charging are almost always CBM-based; sea quotes are commonly stated as "USD X / CBM."
- CBM must be computed from the outer carton dimensions (including packaging), not the product's net size — forwarders measure the outer carton.
- FCL is priced per container type, but you still use CBM to confirm fit: a 20GP holds roughly 28–33 CBM and a 40HQ roughly 68–76 CBM (subject to container and stowage).
Common pitfall: bulky-but-light cargo inflates CBM and drives freight up. Always compute CBM from actually-measured outer cartons rather than theoretical drawing dimensions.
CBM Volume
Cubic meters = L × W × H.
Calculations follow common industry rules and are for reference only; actual billing/liability is governed by your carrier, forwarder and contract.
FAQ
- My dimensions are in centimeters — how do I get CBM?
- Multiply the three sides in cm, then divide by 1,000,000. For example 60×40×50 cm = 120,000 cm³ ÷ 1,000,000 = 0.12 CBM.
- Do I use the product size or the carton size for CBM?
- Always use the outer carton size including packaging — that's what forwarders measure. Using net product size underestimates volume and leads to re-billing.
Related terms
Sources: https://www.maersk.com/logistics-explained · https://www.dhl.com/global-en/home/our-divisions/freight/customer-service/freight-glossary.html