Shipping Volume Calculator

CBM (Cubic Meter) is the standard unit of volume measurement for ocean freight. It is calculated as Length × Width × Height in meters. A standard 20-foot shipping container holds approximately 25–28 CBM of cargo. CBM is used to price LCL (Less than Container Load) ocean shipments, typically at a rate per CBM.

Volumetric (dimensional) weight is a pricing technique that reflects the space a package occupies rather than its actual weight. For air freight: Volumetric Weight (lbs) = L × W × H (inches) ÷ 139. For ocean freight: the billable weight is the greater of actual weight or CBM × 1,000 kg. Carriers charge the higher of actual vs volumetric weight.

The DIM divisor varies by carrier and service: IATA standard (most international airlines): 6,000 cm³/kg (139 in³/lb). FedEx/UPS domestic: 139 in³/lb. FedEx/UPS international: 139 in³/lb. DHL Express: 5,000 cm³/kg (167 in³/lb) for some services. USPS Priority Mail: 166 in³/lb. Always confirm with your carrier.

A standard US pallet is 48 × 40 inches (1,920 sq in footprint). Pallet positions in a truck or container are estimated by dividing total floor space by pallet footprint. A standard 53-foot trailer has approximately 26 pallet positions. The calculation: Pallets needed = ceil(Total boxes ÷ Boxes per pallet layer per pallet height).

LCL (Less than Container Load) means your cargo shares a container with other shippers. It is priced per CBM (typically $50–$200/CBM depending on trade lane) and is cost-effective for shipments under ~10–15 CBM. FCL (Full Container Load) means you rent the entire container — a 20ft (≈25 CBM) or 40ft (≈55 CBM). FCL is better for large shipments and provides more cargo security.