CBM and container load calculator
CBM (cubic metres) is how sea freight measures volume. Enter your carton sizes, weights and quantities to see the total CBM, the weight, the air freight chargeable weight and which container your shipment fits.
Updated
Enter the size and weight of one carton, and how many cartons. Add a row for each carton size.
- 20-foot (about 28 CBM, 25,000 kg)34%
- 40-foot (about 58 CBM, 26,500 kg)17%
- 40-foot high cube (about 68 CBM, 26,500 kg)14%
Usually cheapest as LCL (shared container).
How to calculate CBM
Multiply the carton's length × width × height in metres, then multiply by the number of cartons. In centimetres: length × width × height ÷ 1,000,000 = CBM per carton.
Container sizes
| Container | Nominal volume | Practical loading volume | Typical maximum cargo weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20-foot | About 33 CBM | About 25 to 28 CBM | About 25,000 kg |
| 40-foot | About 67 CBM | About 55 to 58 CBM | About 26,500 kg |
| 40-foot high cube | About 76 CBM | About 65 to 68 CBM | About 26,500 kg |
LCL, FCL or air?
- LCL (shared container) is charged per W/M, the greater of the volume in CBM or the weight in tonnes. It's usually cheapest below about 13 to 15 CBM.
- FCL (full container) is charged per container. Above about 15 CBM, a 20-foot container is often cheaper than LCL.
- Air freight is charged on the chargeable weight, the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric weight (length × width × height in cm ÷ 6,000 per carton).
Our shipping page explains transit times and how we arrange freight, and the landed cost calculator turns your freight quote into a cost per unit.
Common questions
How many CBM fit in a 20-foot container?
Nominally about 33 CBM, but in practice most cargo loads about 25 to 28 CBM, because cartons don't fill every gap.
What is the air freight volumetric weight?
For most airlines, length × width × height in centimetres ÷ 6,000 per carton. You pay on whichever is greater, the actual or the volumetric weight.
When is LCL cheaper than a full container?
Usually below about 13 to 15 CBM. Above that, a 20-foot container is often cheaper and your goods are handled less.