GET /api/cbm?l=120&w=80&h=100&pcs=5What is CBM in Freight?
CBM (cubic metre) is the standard unit of volume used in international freight — sea, air, and road — to measure how much space a shipment occupies. It is calculated by multiplying length × width × height (all in metres), or by dividing the same product in centimetres by 1,000,000. Carriers use CBM to quote LCL sea freight rates, compare volumetric vs actual weight for air freight, and plan container loads.
In LCL (Less than Container Load) sea freight, you typically pay per CBM or per freight tonne — whichever is higher. One freight tonne equals either 1,000 kg or 1 CBM (the W/M ratio is 1:1). In air freight, CBM is converted to volumetric weight using the carrier's divisor (6,000 for IATA airlines, 5,000 for express carriers) and compared against actual gross weight — the higher is the chargeable weight.
CBM = (Length cm × Width cm × Height cm) ÷ 1,000,000
— or equivalently: L(m) × W(m) × H(m)
Total CBM = CBM per piece × Number of piecesCalculate CBM by Container Type
Select a container or ULD below to open a pre-filled calculator with its internal dimensions.