Volumetric Weight Calculator
Calculate international air cargo and courier volumetric weight in kilograms, cubic meters (CBM), and cubic feet (CFT) using standard IATA conventions.
International Dimensions & Metric Air Divisor
Chargeable Weight (kg)
96.0 kg
211.6 lbs
Cubic Volume (CBM)
0.48 CBM
16.95 cu. ft.
Cargo Density
93.8 kg/m³
Bulky cargo
Gross Scale Weight
45.0 kg
Physical mass
Volumetric Weight Formula
Volumetric Weight (kg) = \frac{\text{Length} \times \text{Width} \times \text{Height (cm)}}{5,000}- Cubic Volume (CBM): Length × Width × Height (in meters) = cm³ / 1,000,000.
- IATA Air Divisor 5,000: Standard ratio where 1 CBM equals 200 kg volumetric weight.
- Domestic Road Divisor 6,000: Standard European/international road freight ratio (1 CBM = 167 kg).
- Chargeable Weight: The greater number between actual gross mass (kg) and volumetric mass (kg).
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
- Cubic Volume = 100 × 80 × 60 = 480,000 cm³ = 0.48 CBM (16.95 cu. ft.)
- Volumetric Weight = 480,000 / 5,000 = 96.0 kg (211.6 lbs)
- Chargeable Weight = max(45 kg, 96 kg) = 96.0 kg
- Cargo Density = 45 kg / 0.48 CBM = 93.8 kg/m³ (Bulky Cargo status)
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter carton or pallet dimensions in centimeters.
- 2Input the actual gross scale weight in kilograms.
- 3Select your transport mode divisor (5,000 for air cargo, 6,000 for road freight).
- 4Check cubic meters (CBM) and chargeable weight.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Standard IATA volumetric ratio: 1:6 (1 CBM = 167 kg on road, 200 kg on express air).
- Rounded to the nearest 0.5 kg increment per international airline tariff standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CBM in shipping?
CBM stands for Cubic Meter. It is the primary metric measurement of cargo volume calculated by multiplying length, width, and height in meters.
What is the difference between volumetric weight and dimensional weight?
They refer to the exact same physical concept. "Volumetric weight" is the term predominantly used internationally with metric units (cm, CBM, kg), while "dimensional weight" (DIM) is favored in North America using inches and pounds.
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