CBM Calculator

Use our CBM calculator to quickly estimate your cargo volume and gross weight for air or ocean shipments.

CBM (cubic meter) is the standard unit used to calculate shipping costs. This calculator helps you determine total volume and gross weight for your shipment, whether by air or ocean freight. Enter your package details below and let our CBM calculator do the rest for you.

Freight logistics visual showing container truck, ship, and airplane for CBM calculator

Shipping Tips: Air vs. Ocean Freight

Here are some practical tips to help you understand how CBM and weight impact your shipping costs and method choices:

✈️ For Air Freight

🚢 For Ocean Freight

01. Understand volumetric weight

Air freight charges are often based on volumetric weight (L×W×H in cm)÷6000. If volumetric weight exceeds actual weight, charges will be based on the higher number.

02. Best for urgent and valuable cargo

Air shipping is ideal when speed matters — small, lightweight, and high-value goods benefit most from this method.

03. Mind the restricted goods

Items like batteries, liquids, or powders may require special handling or may be restricted entirely — check before shipping.

04. Reinforce packaging for safety

Air cargo involves more transfers. Use durable boxes and mark fragile items clearly to avoid damage.

01. CBM ≠ actual container usage

Your calculated CBM doesn’t account for real-world loading efficiency. Expect 10–15% of unused space due to gaps, pallet height, or carton shape.

02. Container size reference

20GP fits ~28 CBM
40HQ fits ~68 CBM
Loose-packed goods may use less than this due to poor stacking.

03. Plan ahead for mixed cargo

For mixed-size items, load larger cartons first, then fill gaps with smaller ones. Irregular shapes may need pallets or wooden crates.

04. LCL shipping needs added protection

When sharing containers (LCL), goods are usually palletized. For fragile or stack-sensitive items, use warning labels and proper dunnage.

Planning your shipment using a CBM calculator isn’t just about plugging in numbers — it’s about making informed, cost-effective choices. Whether you ship by air or sea, understanding how volume, weight, and cargo type affect pricing and transit time can save you from unexpected fees or delays. A quick estimate is a great starting point, but successful logistics also require the right packaging, proper documentation, and smart method selection. Use these tips to stay ahead, minimize risk, and ship with more confidence.

Air vs. Ocean Shipping — Which Option Fits Your Shipment?

❓When to Choose Air Shipping

Choose air shipping when your cargo is urgent, lightweight, or of high value. It’s faster but comes at a premium cost — especially if volumetric weight applies. Best suited for electronics, samples, and high-margin products.

❓When to Choose Sea Shipping

Choose sea shipping for large-volume, heavy, or non-urgent shipments. It’s cost-effective over long distances but has longer lead times. Ideal for bulk goods, furniture, industrial equipment, or seasonal stock.

💡Quick Tips

Use your CBM and weight estimates to compare total shipping costs. Still unsure which method makes more sense? Feel free to contact us — we’re just a message away.

📩 Need Help or a Quote?

Wondering how your cargo dimensions and CBM results translate into real-world shipping costs? Whether you’re managing bulky goods, odd-sized cartons, or mixed packaging, we’re here to make sense of it all. Our CBM calculator gives you a quick baseline, but logistics often need a second look. We’ll review your details and help you find the most practical and budget-friendly freight option — no pressure, just clear advice.

Tap “Get a Quote” or check our FAQ for importing from China to move forward with confidence — we’re quick to reply.

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CBM Calculator

Shipping Tips: Air vs. Ocean Freight

✈️ For Air Freight

🚢 For Ocean Freight

Air vs. Ocean Shipping — Which Option Fits Your Shipment?

❓When to Choose Air Shipping

❓When to Choose Sea Shipping

💡Quick Tips

📩 Need Help or a Quote?

WhatsApp us now