DimPack3D is a free online 3D packaging calculator designed for e-commerce sellers, Amazon FBA sellers, and freight forwarders. It helps you calculate optimal product-to-carton packing, container loading, CBM (cubic meters), and Amazon FBA size tiers with interactive 3D visualization.

How do I calculate CBM (Cubic Meters)?

To calculate CBM, enter your carton dimensions (length, width, height) in centimeters. DimPack3D automatically converts to cubic meters using the formula: CBM = (Length × Width × Height) / 1,000,000. The calculator also shows total CBM for multiple cartons in your shipment.

What are Amazon FBA size tiers?

Amazon FBA size tiers determine fulfillment fees based on product dimensions and weight. Tiers include Small Standard, Large Standard, Large Bulky, and Extra-Large. DimPack3D uses the 2025 Amazon FBA standards to classify your products and estimate fees.

How many boxes can fit in a 40-foot container?

The number of boxes depends on your carton dimensions. A 40GP container has internal dimensions of approximately 1203 × 235 × 239 cm (67.5 CBM). DimPack3D's container loading calculator optimizes placement and shows exactly how many cartons fit with 3D visualization.

Is DimPack3D free to use?

Yes, DimPack3D is completely free with no registration required. All features including 3D visualization, packing calculator, container loading, and FBA size tier calculations are available at no cost. Your data is saved locally in your browser.

What is dimensional weight and how is it calculated?

Dimensional weight (DIM weight) is a pricing technique for freight that considers package size. It's calculated by multiplying Length × Width × Height and dividing by a DIM factor (typically 5000 for air freight, 6000 for sea freight). Carriers charge the greater of actual weight or dimensional weight.

What is CBM in shipping?

CBM stands for Cubic Meter, the most commonly used volume measurement unit in international logistics. Shipping companies calculate freight based on cargo CBM or weight, whichever is greater. The formula is: Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 1,000,000 = CBM.

How do I calculate CBM for multiple cartons?

To calculate total CBM for multiple cartons: First calculate single carton CBM = (L × W × H) ÷ 1,000,000 (using cm). Then multiply by the number of cartons: Total CBM = Single Carton CBM × Quantity.

What is the capacity of a 20GP container?

A 20GP (20-foot General Purpose) container has a total capacity of approximately 33 CBM. Internal dimensions are 5.9m × 2.35m × 2.39m. Usable capacity is typically 26-28 CBM, and maximum load weight is 28,000 kg.

What is the capacity of a 40GP and 40HQ container?

A 40GP container has approximately 67 CBM capacity (usable: 54-58 CBM), with internal dimensions of 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m. A 40HQ (High Cube) container has approximately 76 CBM capacity (usable: 62-68 CBM), with dimensions of 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.69m. Both have a max load of 26,000 kg.

What is the recommended container loading rate?

The recommended loading rate is 80-85%. Avoid targeting 100% utilization as you need to leave space to prevent cargo damage and facilitate unloading. Using standardized carton sizes helps achieve more efficient stacking and higher loading rates.

CBM Calculator Guide: Master Shipping Volume Calculations

1What is CBM?

CBM stands for Cubic Meter, the most commonly used volume measurement unit in international logistics. Shipping companies typically calculate freight based on cargo CBM or weight, whichever is greater.

Why is CBM Important?

Accurate CBM calculation helps you: 1) Get accurate freight quotes 2) Choose the right container type 3) Optimize packing to save costs

2CBM Calculation Formula

// Basic Formula (cm)

CBM = Length(cm) × Width(cm) × Height(cm) ÷ 1,000,000

// Multiple Cartons

Total CBM = Single Carton CBM × Quantity

Unit Conversion Table

Unit	Formula	Divisor
cm	L × W × H	÷ 1,000,000
m	L × W × H	= CBM (no conversion)
inch	L × W × H	÷ 61,024
ft	L × W × H	× 0.0283

3Container Capacities

20GP

33 CBM

Internal: 5.9m × 2.35m × 2.39m
Usable: ~26-28 CBM
Max Load: 28,000 kg

40GP

67 CBM

Internal: 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m
Usable: ~54-58 CBM
Max Load: 26,000 kg

40HQ

76 CBM

Internal: 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.69m
Usable: ~62-68 CBM
Max Load: 26,000 kg

Loading Rate Tip

Recommended loading rate is 80-85%. Avoid targeting 100% utilization - leave space to prevent damage and facilitate unloading.

4Practical Examples

Example: Calculate CBM for 100 Cartons

Carton dimensions: 60cm × 40cm × 50cm

Quantity: 100 cartons

Step 1:Single carton volume = 60 × 40 × 50 = 120,000 cm³
Step 2:Single carton CBM = 120,000 ÷ 1,000,000 = 0.12 CBM
Step 3:Total CBM = 0.12 × 100 = 12 CBM

Conclusion: 12 CBM fits in a 20GP container (capacity 26-28 CBM), ~43-46% utilization

5Optimization Tips

1Choose the Right Container

If cargo exceeds 28 CBM but is under 54 CBM, compare whether two 20GP containers or one 40GP is more cost-effective.

2Standardize Carton Sizes

Using standardized carton sizes allows for more efficient stacking and higher loading rates.

3Consider Volumetric Weight

Air freight is typically calculated using the greater of volumetric weight (CBM × 167 or CBM × 200) and actual weight.

4Use 3D Simulation

Use 3D visualization tools to simulate loading plans and find the optimal arrangement.

6Use Our Calculator

Use our free tools to easily calculate CBM, optimize packing, and simulate container loading.

Packing Calculator Container Loading Calculator

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