CBM Calculator
Calculate cubic meters instantly for sea freight container loading
→Understand how much container space your cargo occupies
→Compare cargo volume across 20ft, 40ft and 40ft HC containers
→Optimize shipments by maximizing container utilization
Why use CBM?
Cubic Meters (CBM) is the standard unit for measuring cargo volume in international sea freight. Shipping lines price based on the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight calculated from CBM.
Practical use: Before booking a container, calculate your total CBM to choose the right container size and avoid paying for unused space.
What is CBM?
Cubic Meters Explained
Cubic Meters (CBM) is the standard unit for measuring cargo volume in international shipping. It represents the space your cargo occupies in cubic meters.
Formula:
(L × W × H) ÷ 1,000,000 × Qty = CBMWhere dimensions are in centimeters
1 CBM = 1m × 1m × 1m = 1,000 liters of space
Sea freight: Charged by the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight (1 CBM = 1,000 kg)
Standard containers: 20ft ≈ 33 CBM, 40ft ≈ 67 CBM, 40ft HC ≈ 76 CBM
Pro Tip: Always leave 5-10% of container volume free for safe loading and unloading. Stack cargo evenly to prevent shifting during transit.
Container Capacity - 40' Standard
67.5
Max CBM
26,680 kg
Max Payload
12.03m
Internal Length
2.39m
Internal Height
Quick Reference Table - 40' Standard
| Boxes (60×40×40cm) | CBM | Container % | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35 | 3.4 CBM | 5% | Small shipment |
| 176 | 16.9 CBM | 25% | Quarter load |
| 352 | 33.8 CBM | 50% | Half container |
| 527 | 50.6 CBM | 75% | Three-quarter load |
| 633 | 60.8 CBM | 90% | Near full |
| 703 | 67.5 CBM | 100% | Full container |
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Now that you've calculated your container volume, get a quote for your shipment.
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