CBM Calculator & Container Loading Optimizer
Shipping goods from China to the USA or Europe? Don't pay for empty air. Pixedra’s CBM (Cubic Meter) Calculator helps you determine the exact volume and weight of your consignment.
Whether you are shipping via Sea Freight (LCL/FCL) or Air Freight, this tool calculates your Total CBM and Chargeable Weight instantly. Use the Container Loading visualizer to see if your goods will fit in a standard 20ft or 40ft container.
Container Capacity Guide
How much fits in a container?
| Container Type | Max Volume (Approx) | Max Payload (Weight) |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | 33 CBM | 25,000 kg |
| 40ft Standard | 67 CBM | 26,000 kg |
| 40ft High Cube (HQ) | 76 CBM | 26,500 kg |
Note: Practical capacity is usually 5-10% less than max volume due to packaging inefficiencies.
Understanding "Chargeable Weight"
Why is my "Chargeable Weight" higher than my Actual Weight?
Logistics companies charge based on whichever is higher: the Actual Weight or the Volumetric Weight.
- Sea Freight: Usually charges per CBM (1 CBM = 1,000 kg).
- Air Freight: Charges based on volume density (1 CBM = 167 kg).
Example: If you ship a large box of pillows (Light but Big), the airline will charge you based on the Volume, not the light weight. Our calculator automatically shows you this "Volumetric Weight" so you don't get surprised by the bill.
Common Use Cases
Amazon FBA Sellers
Calculate if your product boxes will fit on a standard pallet or container.
LCL (Less than Container Load)
If your total CBM is under 15, our tool helps you estimate the cost for shared container shipping.
FCL (Full Container Load)
Use the progress bars to maximize your space. If you have 28 CBM, a 20ft container (33 CBM cap) is the perfect choice.