Calculate cubic meters
Total volume
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CBM formula
CBM equals length × width × height × quantity after all dimensions are converted to meters. For centimeters, divide the cubic-centimeter result by 1,000,000. Measure the outermost packaged dimensions, not the bare product.
Worked CBM example
A carton measuring 120 cm × 80 cm × 100 cm occupies 0.96 cubic meters. Ten identical cartons occupy 9.6 m³ before any pallet overhang, protective packaging, or unusable loading space is considered.
If packages have different dimensions, calculate each package group separately and add the CBM results. Do not average unlike cartons because quantity and dimensional differences can materially change the total volume.
Measurement tips for freight teams
Use the longest outer length, widest outer width, and tallest outer height after packing. Include pallets, crates, corner protection, and anything that changes the space occupied in a container or consolidation. Keep the original unit consistent for all three dimensions.
Volume is not chargeable weight
CBM is physical volume. Freight quotes may apply mode-specific volumetric or chargeable-weight rules, minimums, density factors, and carrier tariffs. Confirm the applicable commercial rule before using this result in a customer quote.