Category: Operations & measurement
CBM (Cubic Metre)
Also known as: Cubic Metre, m³
Definition
The volume of cargo in cubic metres — length × width × height in metres — used to price freight.
CBM is the standard volume unit in shipping. For each item you multiply length × width × height in metres, then sum the items for the shipment total.
LCL ocean and air freight are priced on the greater of actual weight or volumetric (chargeable) weight, so CBM directly drives cost. A Euro pallet of 1.2 × 0.8 × 1.0 m is 0.96 CBM.
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