CBM, VOLUMETRIC WEIGHT & ESTIMATE TOOL

CBM stands for Cubic Metre.

It is the standard measurement used to calculate the volume of cargo for sea freight and shared container shipping. In LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping—also known as consolidated shipping—shippers typically pay for the specific container space they use, measured in CBM.

A standard 20ft container can carry about 28.2 tonnes of cargo and holds about 33 CBM, while a standard 40ft container can carry about 28.8 tonnes and holds about 67 CBM. A 40ft high cube holds about 76 CBM and carries about 28.62 tonnes.

DG cargo means Dangerous Goods.

Some cargo types—especially lithium and sodium-ion batteries—are regulated as dangerous goods for air transport. These may require special packaging, detailed documentation, acceptance checks, and specific routing restrictions.

IATA’s 2026 guidance classifies both lithium and sodium-ion batteries as dangerous goods by air. Standalone battery shipments are generally prohibited on passenger aircraft.