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How to Calculate CBM (Using cm) For Your shipment Needs
Introduction
When shipping goods from Bali, most suppliers will give you dimensions in centimeters (cm). That’s why it’s very important to know how to calculate CBM (Cubic Meter) correctly using cm.
If you don’t calculate it properly, you might overpay or underpay your shipping cost. This guide will show you the easiest way.
🔹 What is CBM?
CBM (Cubic Meter) is used to measure the volume of your cargo.
This is one of the main factors used to calculate shipping cost, especially for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments.
🔹 CBM Formula (Using CM)
👉 CBM = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 1,000,000
⚠️ Make sure all dimensions are in centimeters (cm)
🔹 Step-by-Step Example
Let’s say your cargo size is:
- Length: 120 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 50 cm
Step 1: Multiply all dimensions
120 × 60 × 50 = 360,000
Step 2: Divide by 1,000,000
360,000 ÷ 1,000,000 = 0.36 CBM
👉 Your total volume = 0.36 CBM
🔹 Multiple Items Calculation
If you have multiple items:
Example:
- 5 boxes × 0.36 CBM = 1.8 CBM total
🔹 Why This Matters in Shipping
✔ Determines your shipping cost
✔ Helps decide FCL or LCL
✔ Prevents overcharging
✔ Used by cargo companies for quotation
👉 In sea freight, volume (CBM) is often more important than weight
🔹 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Forgetting to divide by 1,000,000
❌ Mixing cm with meters
❌ Not including packaging size
❌ Guessing dimensions instead of measuring
💡 Pro Tips to Save Money
✔ Pack efficiently to reduce volume
✔ Combine shipments (consolidation)
✔ Ask your cargo agent to double check CBM
✔ Always include packing dimensions (not product only)
📢 Conclusion
Calculating CBM using cm is simple once you know the formula. By understanding this, you can control your shipping cost and avoid unnecessary charges.
👉 At Bali Sourcing Cargo, we help you calculate CBM accurately and choose the best shipping option for your cargo.
📲 Contact us today for a free consultation.