Why do you have to recalculate CBM and chargeable weight every time?
Ocean and air freight are billed on whichever is larger — actual weight or volume — not on actual weight alone. The problem is this isn't a single formula: ocean freight uses Revenue Ton (the larger of CBM vs. metric tons), while air freight compares volumetric weight (using a divisor of 5,000 or 6,000) against actual weight. Doing this by hand invites unit mistakes (mm vs. cm) and the wrong divisor choice, wasting time when you're trying to verify a quote.
This calculator takes box dimensions and quantity and computes total CBM, volumetric weight, chargeable weight, and ocean Revenue Ton all at once — and once you enter a base rate, it instantly compares rough ocean and air freight estimates. The calculated cargo dimensions can also be sent straight to the 3D Loading Simulator to check the actual layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do I choose the right volumetric divisor?
A. IATA's general cargo standard commonly uses 6,000, but many airlines and forwarders apply 5,000 in practice. Always check the divisor stated on your actual quote and enter that value.
Q. What's the difference between ocean Revenue Ton and air chargeable weight?
A. Ocean Revenue Ton simply charges whichever is larger — total CBM or total actual weight in metric tons. Air chargeable weight instead compares actual weight against volumetric weight (volume in cm³ divided by the divisor) and bills the larger figure in kilograms.
Q. Can I use this result directly on a formal quote?
A. This is a reference calculator based on cargo dimensions alone. Actual charges can vary by carrier minimums, surcharges (THC, etc.), and contract terms — always confirm the final quote with your carrier.