Cargo Tips
How to Calculate Cargo Weight and CBM for Shipping
Chargeable weight for air (÷ 6000) and CBM for sea: measure after packing so Dubai quotes match the invoice.
Freight invoices follow chargeable units, not the number you hoped for. Air freight charges the higher of actual kilograms and volumetric weight. Sea LCL charges CBM. If you give unpacked product sizes, the quote will look cheap and the warehouse will bill more.
Elite Cargo can re-measure at pickup in Dubai. Sending photos with a tape measure in the frame still saves a revision cycle.
Air volumetric weight
Formula: L × W × H in cm ÷ 6000 = volumetric kg. Example: 60 × 50 × 40 cm = 120,000 ÷ 6000 = 20 kg. If the carton weighs 8 kg, you pay 20 kg. Some couriers use ÷ 5000; we will say which divisor applies on the quote.
Sea CBM
Formula: L × W × H in metres. Example: a pallet 1.2 × 1.0 × 1.5 m = 1.8 CBM. Ten identical pallets = 18 CBM. Compare 18 CBM LCL against a 20ft container — FCL can win even if the box is not full.
Practical measuring rules
Measure the longest points including pallets and overhang. Round centimetres up. Count every piece. For mixed loads, list each size instead of an average. Tell us if cargo is stackable; non-stackable cargo can occupy more billable cube than the sum of cartons.
WhatsApp Elite Cargo on +971 54 706 0040 with a piece list (L×W×H and kg each) for an air-versus-sea comparison from Dubai.
Related services and routes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the air freight volumetric formula?
Length × width × height in centimetres ÷ 6000 equals volumetric kilograms. Charge the higher of that or actual weight.
How do I calculate CBM for sea freight?
Length × width × height in metres. Add all pieces. LCL is usually priced per CBM; FCL is a container rate.
Should I measure before or after packing?
After packing, including pallet height. Quotes based on unpacked product size are usually too low.
What happens if warehouse dimensions differ?
The airline or shipping line rebills. You pay the difference and sometimes an admin fee. Measure twice before booking.