Select the shipping method to apply the correct dimensional factor.
The actual scale weight of the cargo (optional, for comparison).
Cost per kg to estimate total shipping price.
Chargeable Weight
0 kg
Used for Billing
Volumetric Weight0 kg
Basis of ChargeActual Weight
Estimated Freight Cost0.00
Weight Analysis
Calculation Breakdown
Metric
Value
Formula / Note
What is Volume Weight?
Volume Weight (also known as dimensional weight or volumetric weight) is a pricing technique used by commercial freight transport companies (couriers, air freight, and trucking) to ensure that shippers pay for the amount of space their package occupies, not just its actual weight.
When you ask how to calculate volume weight from cbm, you are essentially converting the spatial volume of your cargo (Cubic Meters) into a weight equivalent (Kilograms). Logistics carriers will compare the Actual Weight (what the scale says) against the Volume Weight. The higher of the two becomes the Chargeable Weight.
This system prevents carriers from losing money on lightweight, bulky items (like cotton wool or Styrofoam) that take up valuable cargo space but weigh very little.
How to Calculate Volume Weight from CBM: The Formula
The calculation relies on a "Dimensional Factor" (DIM factor) which varies by mode of transport. The core formula to convert CBM to Volume Weight is:
Volume Weight (kg) = CBM × Conversion Factor
Here is a breakdown of the standard conversion factors used in the logistics industry:
Freight Mode
Conversion Factor
Ratio
Air Freight
167 kg per 1 CBM
1:6000 (if using cm)
Sea Freight (LCL)
1000 kg per 1 CBM
1:1000
Express (DHL/FedEx)
200 kg per 1 CBM
1:5000
Road Freight
333 kg per 1 CBM
1:3000 (varies)
Practical Examples
Example 1: Air Freight Shipment
Scenario: You are shipping 5 pallets of electronics.
Total Volume: 3.5 CBM
Gross Weight: 400 kg
Step 1: Calculate Volume Weight. Air freight factor is 167 kg/CBM.
Calculation: 3.5 CBM × 167 = 584.5 kg.
Step 2: Determine Chargeable Weight. Compare Actual (400 kg) vs. Volume (584.5 kg).
Since 584.5 > 400, the Chargeable Weight is 584.5 kg. You pay for the volume, not the scale weight.
Example 2: Sea Freight (LCL)
Scenario: Shipping machine parts via ocean.
Total Volume: 2.0 CBM
Gross Weight: 2500 kg
Step 1: Calculate Volume Weight. Sea freight factor is 1000 kg/CBM.
Calculation: 2.0 CBM × 1000 = 2000 kg.
Step 2: Determine Chargeable Weight. Compare Actual (2500 kg) vs. Volume (2000 kg).
Since 2500 > 2000, the Chargeable Weight is 2500 kg. In this case, the cargo is very dense, so you pay for actual weight.
How to Use This Calculator
Our tool simplifies the math for logistics professionals and business owners. Follow these steps:
Enter Volume: Input the total CBM of your shipment. If you only have dimensions (Length, Width, Height), multiply them in meters to get CBM first.
Select Mode: Choose Air, Sea, Road, or Express. This automatically applies the correct density ratio.
Input Weight: Enter the gross weight in kilograms to see the comparison.
Check Rates: Optionally, add your freight rate per kg to see the estimated financial impact.
Key Factors That Affect Volume Weight Results
Several financial and physical variables influence your final shipping costs when calculating volume weight from CBM:
Carrier Divisors: Not all couriers use the standard 5000 divisor (200kg/cbm). Some economy services use 4000 or 6000. Always verify with your forwarder.
Palletization: Dimensions are usually measured after palletizing. A standard pallet adds roughly 0.15 to 0.2 CBM per pallet and 15-25kg of weight.
Stackability: If your cargo cannot be stacked (Non-Stackable), some carriers charge based on the floor space or height of the container, effectively increasing your chargeable volume.
Minimum Densities: Sea freight LCL usually has a minimum chargeable volume of 1 CBM or 1000kg. Even small shipments are billed at this minimum.
Packaging Efficiency: Reducing the box size by even 2cm can significantly drop the CBM and resulting volume weight, saving hundreds of dollars on air freight.
Exchange Rates & Fuel Surcharges: The final financial cost depends on the currency of the freight rate and dynamic fuel surcharges applied to the chargeable weight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my chargeable weight higher than my actual weight?
This happens when your cargo is "light but bulky" (low density). The carrier charges you for the space occupied because that space could have been used for other cargo.
What is the CBM formula?
CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m). If measuring in centimeters, calculate (L×W×H) ÷ 1,000,000.
Does Sea Freight always use 1000kg/CBM?
Yes, for LCL (Less than Container Load) consolidation, the standard is 1 CBM = 1 Ton (1000kg). FCL (Full Container Load) is charged per container, regardless of weight (up to legal limits).
How can I reduce my volume weight?
Use vacuum packaging, minimize empty space in boxes, break down items into smaller components, or choose a freight mode with a more favorable divisor (e.g., Sea instead of Air).
Is the freight rate applied to CBM or KG?
Rates are usually quoted per "Freight Ton" or "Chargeable Kg". You calculate the chargeable weight first, then multiply by the rate.
What is the difference between Net Weight and Gross Weight?
Net weight is the product only. Gross weight includes packaging and pallets. Chargeable weight calculations always use Gross Weight.
Can I use this for domestic trucking?
Yes, but trucking density factors vary widely (from 250kg to 333kg per CBM). Check your carrier's tariff.
What is a 'pivot weight'?
In some contracts, a pivot weight is a threshold where pricing structures change. It is closely related to density tiers in air freight.
Related Tools and Resources
Enhance your logistics planning with these additional resources: