Cubic Meter (CBM) and measurement re two common terms used in shipping industry. Though both are important in helping to determine the volume and dimensions of a shipment, they are of different purposes and are utilized in different contexts. This article will go into discussing measurement and cbm meaning in shipping, the difference between the two as well as how each is computed in the logistics industry.

What is CBM?

It is a unit of volume used to calculate the volume occupied by a package or shipment. In shipping particularly, it is very important to know just how much room a cargo will occupy in a transport vehicle, from a container ship, to truck, to freight plane. CBM is essential in assessing shipping cost and planning cargo space – it is a standard freight measurement internationally.

Calculating CBM

The formula for calculating CBM is:

CBM=L (m)×W(m)×H (m)

For example, if L= 2m, W=1m, and H=0.5m then,

CBM=2×1×0.5=1 cubic meter

What is Measurement?

With respect to shipping, measurement generally refers to the actual physical dimensions of a package or container. This involves the measuring of length, width and height of an item. Whereas CBM is based on volume, measurement is typically used to verify that cargo fits within acceptable dimensions for carriers or government regulations, and also can be used to determine dimensional weight for air freight shipments.

Dimensional Weight in Measurement

Another important shipping concept is dimensional weight, or volumetric weight, which really matters for air freight. Therefore, package density is determined through the package dimensions from which a hypothetical weight is calculated for pricing purposes. The formula for dimensional weight usually divides the product of the dimensions by a divisor specified by the carrier:

The Dimensional Weight (kg)=Length (cm)×Width (cm)×Height (cm)/Divisor.

Shipping charges are a function of the greater actual weight and dimensional weight (also known as volumetric weight), and carriers strongly encourage shippers to use the most compact packaging feasible.

Key Differences Between CBM and Measurement

• Purpose: CBM is used mainly for calculating volume in order to maximize the usage of space on shipping containers and other cargo carriers. Measurement, on the other hand, is used for ensuring compliance with carrier restrictions and calculating costs based on physical or dimensional weight.
• Calculation: CBM is a calculation of volume and requires multiplying three dimensions and usually refers to space utilization. Measurement can refer to simply measuring linear dimensions without calculating volume or weight, often used for checking if an item will fit through doors or into specific storage areas.
• Use in Pricing: CBM is typically used to determine bulk shipping rates, particularly in sea freight. Measurement, or more specifically dimensional weight calculations, are crucial for air freight pricing, influencing how much the shipment will cost depending on its size and weight ratio.

Conclusion

Both CBM and measurement are fundamental concepts in the field of logistics and shipping. If you are in the shipping industry in any capacity, from logistics manager to shipper, it’s important you understand the difference because it plays into how cargo is packed, priced, and moves around the world. By understanding how and when to utilize each to most efficiently and cost-effectively ship items, everyone stands to save money.