CBM to Ton Converter
Convert cubic meters (CBM) to metric tons, short tons, and long tons. Learn the freight ton (revenue ton) concept used in shipping.
1 CBM × 300 kg/m³ =
In international shipping, carriers use the concept of a freight ton (also called revenue ton) to determine chargeable weight. The rule is simple:
Freight Ton = max(Weight Tons, Measurement Tons)
where 1 Measurement Ton = 1 CBM
Carriers charge whichever is higher — the actual weight or the volume. Light, bulky goods (like foam or clothing) are charged by volume (CBM), while dense goods (like steel) are charged by weight.
Your Freight Ton
Volume-based (light cargo)
CBM to Ton Conversion Table
| CBM | @ 200 kg/m³ | @ 300 kg/m³ | @ 500 kg/m³ | @ 1000 kg/m³ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 | 0.1 MT | 0.15 MT | 0.25 MT | 0.5 MT |
| 1 | 0.2 MT | 0.3 MT | 0.5 MT | 1 MT |
| 2 | 0.4 MT | 0.6 MT | 1 MT | 2 MT |
| 5 | 1 MT | 1.5 MT | 2.5 MT | 5 MT |
| 10 | 2 MT | 3 MT | 5 MT | 10 MT |
| 20 | 4 MT | 6 MT | 10 MT | 20 MT |
| 33.2 | 6.64 MT | 9.96 MT | 16.6 MT | 33.2 MT |
| 67.7 | 13.54 MT | 20.31 MT | 33.85 MT | 67.7 MT |
MT = Metric Ton (1,000 kg). 33.2 CBM ≈ 20ft container. 67.7 CBM ≈ 40ft container.
How do you convert CBM to tons?
Multiply CBM by density (kg/m³) to get kg, then divide by 1000 for metric tons.
What is a freight ton?
The greater of 1 metric ton or 1 CBM. Carriers charge whichever produces more revenue.
What is the difference between metric, short, and long ton?
Metric ton = 1,000 kg. Short ton (US) = 907.185 kg. Long ton (UK) = 1,016.047 kg.
How many CBM in 1 ton?
Depends on density. For general cargo (~300 kg/m³), 1 ton ≈ 3.33 CBM. For water (1000 kg/m³), 1 ton = 1 CBM.