Quick answer
How do I calculate CBM?
CBM = length × width × height in cm ÷ 1,000,000, multiplied by the number of cartons.
CBM = L × W × H (cm) ÷ 1,000,000 × Cartons
How it works
Freight Cost Calculator
From carton dimensions to freight per piece — for sea (per CBM) or air (per chargeable kg).
Sea freight is charged on volume; air freight on the higher of actual and volumetric weight.
Formula
The formula, in full
- CBM
- L × W × H (cm) ÷ 1,000,000 × Cartons
- Volumetric kg
- L × W × H ÷ Divisor × Cartons
- Sea freight
- CBM × Rate
- Air freight
- max(Actual kg, Volumetric kg) × Rate
Example
417 cartons by sea
- 01CBM / carton = 0.084
- 02Total = 35.03 CBM
- 03Freight = $1,926.54 → $0.192 / pc
Use “Load Example” above to run this example in the calculator.
Industry tip
Industry tip
“Optimise carton size to the container: a 2 cm change in carton height can fit an extra layer.”
Assumptions
What this calculator assumes
- Usable container volume and air divisor are editable.
- All duty, tax, freight and exchange rates are entered by you. Results are estimates, not legal or tax advice — confirm rates with your customs broker, forwarder and bank.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate CBM?
CBM = length × width × height in cm ÷ 1,000,000, multiplied by the number of cartons.
What is chargeable weight?
For air freight, the higher of actual gross weight and volumetric weight (L × W × H ÷ 6000).