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.
Related terms
Chargeable Weight
The weight freight is billed on — the greater of actual gross weight and volumetric weight.
Volumetric Weight
A notional weight derived from a shipment’s volume, used to charge bulky, low-density cargo fairly.
LCL (Less than Container Load)
An ocean shipment too small to justify a full container, consolidated with other cargo into one box.
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