The basic calculation
CBM measures shipment volume in cubic meters. Convert each package dimension to meters, multiply length by width by height, then multiply by the package quantity.
CBM = length (m) × width (m) × height (m) × quantityWorked example
A carton measuring 60 × 40 × 35 cm equals 0.60 × 0.40 × 0.35 = 0.084 m³. Ten cartons equal 0.84 m³.
What to check before using the result
Packing lists and freight worksheets often need package dimensions or total shipment volume. Use outside packaged dimensions, not the bare product dimensions.
Use the result as part of shipment preparation, then keep the final dimensions, weights and package counts consistent with the packing list, carrier instructions and other paperwork.
Reminder: Carrier measurement, rounding, classification and billing rules vary. Confirm the rules that apply to your shipment.