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No Responses September 1, 2025

The Complete Exporter’s Guide: CBM, Volumetric Weight, Chargeable Weight & Packing Tips

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A complete guide for exporters on calculating CBM, volumetric weight, chargeable weight, and packing cargo efficiently. Singh International Xpress, Amritsar, Punjab, provides expert shipping tips.

📦 1. What is CBM in Shipping?

CBM (Cubic Meter) measures the volume of your shipment and determines how much space your cargo occupies in a container.

Formula:
CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m)

Example:
A crate measuring 2 m × 1.5 m × 1 m → CBM = 3 CBM

CBM is primarily used for sea freight and large cargo shipments.

⚖️ 2. What is Volumetric Weight?

Volumetric weight is used to charge for large but lightweight shipments. Instead of actual weight, shipping costs are based on space occupied.

Air Cargo Formula:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 5000 (cm)

Sea Cargo LCL Formula:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = CBM × Conversion Factor (1 CBM ≈ 1000 kg, varies by shipping line)

🧮 3. How to Calculate Chargeable Weight

Chargeable weight is the higher of actual weight and volumetric weight, which determines shipping costs.

Steps:

  1. Measure actual weight (including packaging)

  2. Calculate volumetric weight

  3. Compare both → chargeable weight = higher value

Example (Air Cargo):

  • Package: 120 cm × 80 cm × 60 cm

  • Volumetric Weight: 576,000 ÷ 5000 = 115.2 kg

  • Actual Weight: 100 kg → Chargeable Weight = 115.2 kg

Example (Sea Cargo LCL):

  • Package: 2 m × 1.5 m × 1 m = 3 CBM

  • Conversion Factor: 1 CBM ≈ 1000 kg

  • Volumetric Weight = 3 × 1000 = 3000 kg

🧰 4. Packing Tips to Save Shipping Costs

  1. Use Right-Sized Boxes – avoid empty space to reduce volumetric weight

  2. Weigh and Measure Accurately – include packaging and pallets

  3. Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom – prevent damage

  4. Use Durable Packaging Materials – corrugated boxes, bubble wrap, foam

  5. Fill Empty Spaces – prevent movement without increasing volume

  6. Stack Smartly on Pallets – maximize container space

  7. Label Clearly – indicate fragile items and handling instructions

⚓ 5. Why Efficient Packing and Accurate Weight Matter

  • Reduces shipping costs

  • Prevents cargo damage

  • Ensures proper container utilization

  • Smooth customs clearance

Proper calculation of CBM, volumetric weight, and chargeable weight, combined with efficient packing, ensures a cost-effective and safe shipment.

📞 Contact Singh International Xpress

We provide trusted sea and air cargo services, helping exporters in Amritsar, Punjab calculate CBM, volumetric weight, and chargeable weight, and pack cargo efficiently.

Contact Us:
🌐 www.singhxpress.com
📱 +91 96465 55522 | +91 79867 01081
🏢 Amritsar, Punjab
Service: Singh International Xpress – Reliable Courier & Sea Cargo Solutions