CBM Calculator: Shipping Volume & Cubic Feet
Calculate shipment CBM and cubic feet from packed dimensions, package quantities and optional weights. Combine several carton or pallet sizes.
Your inputs
Example inputs are hypothetical. Choose units and assumptions that match your measurements.
Your result
Enter your values, then choose Calculate.
Calculations stay in this browser. Display rounding does not change the underlying calculation.
Calculation breakdown
Method, assumptions and worked example
What is CBM?
CBM means cubic meters, a measure of volume. One package’s CBM equals its outside length × width × height, with all dimensions in meters. Multiply by the number of identical packages and sum the results for mixed carton sizes.
Worked example
A packed carton measuring 50 × 40 × 30 cm has volume 0.5 × 0.4 × 0.3 = 0.06 m³. Ten cartons total 0.6 CBM, approximately 21.19 ft³. If each carton weighs 8 kg, their actual total weight is 80 kg. These are separate measurements; volume cannot reveal weight without density.
Measure the complete package
Include packaging, pallet height and any protruding parts. Use the outside bounding dimensions for an irregular object. If measuring a loaded pallet as one package, do not also add the cartons already included within that pallet’s dimensions. Enter zero weight when you only need volume.
CBM, billable weight and container capacity
Air and parcel carriers may convert dimensions into dimensional weight using their own divisor and rounding. Sea-freight quotes can use separate weight or measurement terms. This tool calculates geometric volume and entered actual weight, not a freight quote. A summed volume smaller than a container’s nominal volume does not guarantee fit: doors, orientation, stacking limits, gaps and payload matter. Use the dimensional-weight and container-cost tools for the next stage.
Frequently asked questions
Can I mix carton sizes?
Yes. Add a separate row for each size and enter its quantity. All rows use the selected dimension unit.
Does changing units preserve the shipment?
Yes. Length, width and height convert together. Quantity and weight in kilograms stay unchanged.
Can I use centimeters, inches or feet?
Yes. Conversions use 1 inch = 0.0254 m and 1 foot = 0.3048 m; cubic feet are converted from the total volume.
Method review and references
Formula and content reviewed on 10 October 2026. Worked examples are hypothetical. Methods and assumptions are explained on each page. Use actual measurements, product yields and applicable school or employment rules. These tools are independent estimates.
The calculation or selection method is described above. Use the relevant school policy, supplier quote or measurement definition when choosing inputs.