1. What Does CBM Stand For?
CBM stands for Cubic Meter (m³). In international freight shipping and cargo logistics, CBM is the definitive metric measurement used to calculate freight rates for LCL (Less than Container Load) ocean shipments, air cargo, and multi-modal freight.
2. The Step-by-Step CBM Formula
To compute CBM from measurements taken in centimeters (cm):
CBM = [Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) / 1,000,000] × Total Cartons
For example, 10 cartons measuring 50 cm × 40 cm × 30 cm = (60,000 / 1,000,000) × 10 = 0.60 CBM.
3. CBM vs. Volumetric Weight (Air Freight)
Airlines and express couriers bill on Chargeable Weight, which is the greater of actual weight and dimensional weight. The standard air freight conversion is:
1 CBM ≈ 167 kg (Air Freight, Divisor 6000)
1 CBM ≈ 200 kg (Express Courier DHL/FedEx, Divisor 5000)
1 CBM ≈ 1,000 kg (Ocean LCL Freight, 1 Ton Rule)
1 CBM ≈ 200 kg (Express Courier DHL/FedEx, Divisor 5000)
1 CBM ≈ 1,000 kg (Ocean LCL Freight, 1 Ton Rule)