CBM & Pallet Calculator
Calculate total cubic metre (CBM) volume for any shipment — multiple box types supported. See how many pallets you need and how much container space your cargo fills.
CBM Formula
CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) × Quantity- Standard pallet capacity: 1.728 CBM (1.2m × 1.0m × 1.44m stacking height)
- Container capacities are usable volume estimates — actual cargo may vary
- For LCL ocean freight, you are charged per CBM or per 1,000kg (whichever is greater)
Quick Reference: Container & Pallet Capacities
20ft Container
~25 CBM usable / ~21,700 kg max payload
- › Internal: 5.9m × 2.35m × 2.39m
- › Typical LCL cutoff: 15 CBM
- › Best for: 10–15 pallets
40ft Standard Container
~55 CBM usable / ~26,500 kg max payload
- › Internal: 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m
- › Typical LCL cutoff: 35 CBM
- › Best for: 20–24 pallets
40ft High-Cube Container
~67 CBM usable / ~26,500 kg max payload
- › Internal: 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.69m
- › Extra 0.30m height vs standard
- › Best for: tall or palletized cargo
Standard Pallet (NA)
1.2m × 1.0m base
- › Typical stack height: 1.44m
- › Volume: ~1.73 CBM
- › Max weight: 1,000–1,500 kg
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CBM and how is it calculated?
CBM stands for cubic metre — the standard unit of volume used in international freight and warehousing. It is calculated as: CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) × Quantity. For dimensions in centimetres, divide each dimension by 100 before multiplying.
How many CBM fit on a standard pallet?
A standard Euro pallet (1.2m × 0.8m) stacked to a typical 1.5m height holds approximately 1.44 CBM. A North American pallet (1.2m × 1.0m) at 1.44m height holds approximately 1.73 CBM. This calculator uses the North American standard.
How many CBM fit in a shipping container?
A 20ft standard container holds approximately 25–28 CBM of usable cargo space. A 40ft standard container holds approximately 55–58 CBM, and a 40ft high-cube holds approximately 67–68 CBM. Actual loading capacity depends on cargo density and how boxes stack.
How is ocean freight charged by CBM?
LCL (less-than-container-load) ocean freight is typically charged per CBM or per 1,000 kg (a metric ton), whichever is greater. For example, if your shipment is 3 CBM but weighs 4,000 kg, you would be charged for 4 CBM (since 4,000 kg / 1,000 = 4). This is called the revenue ton.
Also useful: DIM Weight Calculator · Warehousing & Storage
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