Definition
The standard unit of volume used to measure cargo for freight pricing and container planning, equal to one metre by one metre by one metre. Less-than-container-load sea freight is usually charged on the greater of weight or volume, with volume expressed in CBM. Accurate CBM figures are essential for quoting and for loading containers efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
What is CBM (Cubic Metre)?
The standard unit of volume used to measure cargo for freight pricing and container planning, equal to one metre by one metre by one metre. Less-than-container-load sea freight is usually charged on the greater of weight or volume, with volume expressed in CBM. Accurate CBM figures are essential for quoting and for loading containers efficiently.
Which glossary terms are related to CBM (Cubic Metre)?
CBM (Cubic Metre) is a supply chain & warehousing term in the South African import/export industry. Related terms in the same area include 3PL (Third-Party Logistics), 4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics), ABC Analysis, Bonded Logistics, Bonded Warehouse (SOS/OS) — each has its own plain-English definition in the TradeCaravan glossary.