LOADWISE PLANNING GUIDE
Cargo CBM Calculator: How to Calculate Cubic Metres
CBM means cubic metres. For rectangular cargo, multiply the outer packaged length, width and height expressed in metres, then multiply by quantity. Include the pallet and packaging in every measurement.
Open the free 3D load planner →Calculate your cargo volume
Enter the outside dimensions of one packaged piece and the number of identical pieces. For mixed sizes, calculate each size separately and add the totals.
Volume alone does not establish fit or payload. Check your cargo layout in the 3D planner.
CBM formulas by input unit
| Dimensions | CBM per piece |
|---|---|
| Centimetres | Length × width × height ÷ 1,000,000 |
| Millimetres | Length × width × height ÷ 1,000,000,000 |
| Inches | Length × width × height × 0.000016387064 |
Total CBM = CBM per piece × quantity. For mixed cargo, calculate each cargo type separately and add the results. Keep enough decimal places until the final total.
Example in centimetres
A packaged pallet measuring 120 × 100 × 110 cm has volume 1.320 m³. Ten identical pallets have a combined volume of 13.200 m³.
Example in inches
A crate measuring 60 × 60 × 70 in has volume 252,000 cubic inches. Multiplying by 0.000016387064 gives 4.130 m³ rounded to three decimal places. Its weight is separate: a 12,000 lb crate has the same CBM as a lighter crate of identical dimensions.
Does CBM tell me how many pallets will fit?
No. Two cargo lists with equal CBM can require different layouts. Door clearance, pallet footprints, rotation, unused gaps, stacking and cargo weight all matter. Use the loading planner to check an arrangement instead of dividing container volume by pallet volume and treating the answer as a guaranteed capacity.
Can I use centimetres and pounds together?
Yes. Loadwise has independent length and weight selectors. It accepts mm, cm or inches for dimensions and kg, pounds or metric tonnes for weight. Each cargo entry shows its CBM per piece and total CBM in cubic metres.
Is CBM the same as chargeable weight?
No. CBM measures volume. Chargeable weight and freight charges depend on the transport mode, carrier tariff, dimensional-weight rules and shipment details. This planner does not quote freight rates.