CBM & Container Load Calculator
Enter your carton dimensions and quantity to get total cargo volume (CBM), air-freight volumetric weight, chargeable weight, and how your shipment fits into standard containers.
Total volume
3.6 m³
Gross weight
1,200 kg
Volumetric weight (air)
600 kg
Chargeable weight (air)
1,200 kg
Container Fit
Estimates use standard usable capacities (20GP ≈ 28 m³, 40GP ≈ 58 m³, 40HQ ≈ 68 m³) and the IATA ÷6000 volumetric divisor. Actual loadability depends on carton stackability and palletization — we confirm exact figures with every quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CBM and how is it calculated?›
CBM (cubic meter) measures your cargo's volume: length × width × height of one carton in meters, multiplied by the number of cartons. Sea freight LCL rates are charged per CBM, so it directly determines your shipping cost.
What is volumetric weight and why does air freight use it?›
Airlines charge by whichever is greater: actual weight or volumetric weight (carton volume in cm³ ÷ 6000). Light but bulky cargo pays by volume, not scale weight — the greater of the two is your chargeable weight.
How many CBM fit in a 20ft or 40ft container?›
Practically: about 26–28 m³ in a 20GP, 55–58 m³ in a 40GP, and 65–68 m³ in a 40HQ. Theoretical capacities are higher, but real-world loading loses space to carton shapes and palletization.
When should I ship LCL vs book a full container?›
As a rule of thumb, LCL makes sense below roughly 15 m³. Above that, a 20GP flat rate is often cheaper than per-CBM LCL pricing — and your cargo rides alone, with less handling and lower damage risk.
Want Exact Rates for Your Shipment?
Send us your CBM figures — we'll quote sea, air, and rail options with all-inclusive pricing within 4 business hours.
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