CBM calculator and container fit
Add your cartons, crates or pallets to get the total cubic metres and weight — and see how full a 20′, 40′ or 40′ high cube container would be and how many units of each size fit.
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How to calculate CBM
CBM means cubic metre (m³) — the standard unit for the volume of a shipment in sea freight and groupage. Measure each piece at its widest points, including the pallet and packaging:
Example: 40 cartons of 60 × 40 × 40 cm = 0.096 m³ each → 3.84 m³. Ten EUR pallets 120 × 80 × 110 cm = 1.056 m³ each → 10.56 m³. Together: 14.4 m³ — about 43% of a 20′ container.
Container dimensions
| Container | Internal L × W × H | Volume | Door W × H | Typical payload | EUR pallets (1 tier) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ dry (22G1) | 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | ≈ 33 m³ | 2.34 × 2.28 m | ≈ 28 t | 11 |
| 40′ dry (42G1) | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | ≈ 67.7 m³ | 2.34 × 2.28 m | ≈ 26.7 t | 23–25 |
| 40′ high cube (45G1) | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.70 m | ≈ 76.4 m³ | 2.34 × 2.58 m | ≈ 26.5 t | 23–25 |
These are commonly quoted values for standard steel dry containers. Exact dimensions and tare weight are printed on the container door and differ by manufacturer; the permitted gross weight on the road also depends on the country. Confirm with your carrier for tight loads.
Why the container never fills to 100%
Pallets rarely match the container width exactly, cartons are not perfect blocks and you need space for securing and doors. As a rule of thumb, plan on about 25–28 m³ in a 20′, 55–60 m³ in a 40′ and 65–70 m³ in a 40′ high cube. For heavy cargo the payload, not the volume, is the limit — the calculator shows both. Road freight is usually priced by loading metres instead: try the loading meter calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How many CBM fit in a 20ft container?
A standard 20′ dry container has about 33 m³ of internal volume (5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m). In practice 25–28 m³ of cartons is a realistic load, because of gaps, packaging shape and securing.
How many CBM fit in a 40ft and a 40ft high cube?
A 40′ dry container has about 67.7 m³, a 40′ high cube about 76.4 m³ thanks to an extra 30 cm of height. Realistic loads are about 55–60 m³ and 65–70 m³ respectively.
How many pallets fit in a 20ft and a 40ft container?
In one tier: 11 EUR pallets (120×80) or 9 industrial pallets (120×100) in a 20′, and 23–25 EUR pallets or 20–22 industrial pallets in a 40′. Exact numbers depend on pallet overhang and how tightly the container is loaded; a high cube may allow a second tier if the goods are stackable.
How do I convert CBM to cubic feet?
1 m³ equals 35.315 cubic feet. The calculator shows both. For volumetric weight in air, express or road freight, use the volumetric weight calculator.
When is LCL cheaper than a full container?
As a rough guide, below about 13–15 m³ shipping as LCL (groupage) is often cheaper than paying for a whole 20′ container. Above that, a full container usually wins and is handled less. Rates change, so compare both quotes.
Can milog plan consolidated loads for me?
milog has a consolidation module for groupage with an LDM calculator, 3D loading view, client references and documents, plus quotes, tracking and invoicing. Create a free account — every module is free for everyone until September 2027.
More free tools for logistics
Loading meter calculator
Loading metres for EUR and industrial pallets, stacking, trailer fill and payload check.
Open tool →Volumetric weight calculator
Chargeable weight for air, express, road and sea freight — with typical ratios.
Open tool →Container number check
Validate a container number by ISO 6346 — check digit, owner code and category.
Open tool →CBM & container calculator
Shipment volume in m³ and how much fits into 20′, 40′ and 40′ high cube containers.
Open tool →