CBM calculator
Enter each piece in centimetres and kilograms. In LCL mode you get the cubic metres, the metric tons and the W/M you will be charged. Switch to Air or Express to see the same cargo by volumetric weight.
How to calculate CBM
LCL W/M = max(CBM, metric tons), minimum 1, rounded up to 0.01
Worked example: 3 pallets to Jebel Ali by LCL
Each pallet is 120 × 80 × 150 cm and weighs 280 kg.
| Step | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 120 × 80 × 150 × 3 ÷ 1,000,000 | 4.32 CBM |
| Weight | 280 × 3 ÷ 1000 | 0.84 t |
| Chargeable | max(4.32, 0.84) | 4.32 W/M |
At USD 45 per W/M the ocean freight is USD 194.40. The volume drives the charge, which is normal for general cargo.
CBM to kg by mode
| Mode | 1 CBM counts as | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Air cargo | 166.67 kg | divisor 6000 |
| Express | 200 kg | divisor 5000 |
| LCL sea | 1,000 kg | W/M, 1 CBM = 1 t |
Price it per W/M, send the quote.
In QUAY, a cost line can be a rate per W/M with a minimum. The app multiplies it by the chargeable W/M, adds your margin and shares a PDF quote with your client.
What is W/M?
Weight or measure: LCL is charged on the greater of CBM and metric tons, usually with a 1 W/M minimum.
Is CBM rounded?
Most consolidators round W/M up to two decimals: 2.341 becomes 2.35.
Small shipment under 1 CBM?
You pay the minimum, usually 1 W/M. 0.4 CBM weighing 150 kg is charged as 1 W/M.