In the field of international trade and logistics, CBM is an important concept that is often mentioned. For online store owners, understanding the calculation method of CBM and how to convert it can effectively manage inventory, optimize packaging, and estimate shipping costs more accurately. This article will delve into the definition, calculation method, and conversion of CBM to help you better grasp this important logistics indicator.
What is CBM?
CBM (Cubic Meter) means "cubic meter" in Chinese. In international logistics, CBM is the standard unit for measuring cargo volume. Whether shipping by sea, air or land, CBM is an important basis for calculating freight and arranging cargo loading.
CBM = length (m) × width (m) × height (m)
For example, if the dimensions of a box are 1m long, 0.5m wide, and 0.8m high, then its CBM is:
1 × 0.5 × 0.8 = 0.4 CBM
In actual operation, we often need to convert between CBM and centimeters (cm). There are several important conversion relationships here:
1 CBM = 1,000,000 cm³ (cubic centimeters)
To convert CBM to cm, simply multiply CBM by 1,000,000;
Conversely, to convert cm to CBM, divide by 1,000,000.
For example:
0.5 CBM = 0.5 × 1,000,000 = 500,000 cm³
250,000 cm³ = 250,000 ÷ 1,000,000 = 0.25 CBM
The conversion of CBM to kilogram is a little more complicated because it involves the density of the goods. Different types of cargo have different densities, so the CBM to kilogram conversion is not fixed. However, in international logistics, a concept called "volume weight" is often used for estimation.
For air freight, the commonly used conversion standard is:
1 CBM = 167 kg (volume weight)
If the actual weight of the goods is less than the volumetric weight, the charge will be based on the volumetric weight.
If the actual weight of the goods is greater than the volumetric weight, the charge will be based on the actual weight.
For example, a cargo with a volume of 0.6 CBM:
Volume weight = 0.6 × 167 = 100.2kg
If the actual weight of the goods is 80 kilograms, then 100.2 kilograms will be used as the calculation basis when billing.
Huifeiyun provides a convenient online CBM Calculator, you can easily calculate your cargo CBM on Huofeiyun's website. This tool can not only calculate CBM, but also directly estimate storage costs, which is very practical.
Understanding and correctly calculating CBM is crucial for e-commerce sellers. It not only affects warehousing costs, but also transportation costs. Using Huofeiyun's CBM calculator and warehousing services can help you better manage inventory and optimize logistics costs.
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