Freight is priced by space as much as by weight, and furniture is bulky. If you can estimate cubic metres (CBM) yourself, you can plan quantities, compare quotes and avoid paying to ship air.
- CBM per carton = length × width × height in metres.
- Add up all cartons, then compare with the usable space of the container, not its nominal volume.
- Furniture usually fills a container by volume first, but heavy solid-wood pieces can reach the weight limit.
- Knock-down design can change CBM dramatically.
The formula, with a worked example
For every carton, multiply length × width × height in metres. Then multiply by the number of cartons.
A dining chair carton measures 0.55 × 0.50 × 0.95 m, which is about 0.26 CBM. An order of 200 chairs packed one per carton is about 52 CBM.
Nominal volume versus real loading
Container sizes are quoted as nominal internal volumes. Real loading is always lower.
The usable share depends on carton shapes, stacking limits and how well sizes fit together. Treat the figures above as planning guides, and ask your supplier for a loading plan.
Stap voor stap
- List every model and quantity.Include spare parts, cushions and accessories packed separately.
- Get packed carton sizes.Use the packed size, not the product size. Foam and corner protection add centimetres.
- Calculate CBM per model, then total.Use a spreadsheet so you can change quantities quickly.
- Compare with the container.Divide the total by the usable volume you expect, not the nominal one.
- Check weight.Dense items such as solid teak tables can hit the payload limit before the container is full. Ask the carrier for the limit.
Send the models and quantities. We will return the carton sizes, CBM and a container plan with the quotation.
Ways to fit more in the same box
- Choose knock-down designs where the structure allows it.
- Nest or stack products that are made to stack.
- Mix tall and flat cartons so spaces are filled.
- Match order size to the container instead of leaving a quarter empty.
Ask for the loading plan with your quotation. It prevents the unpleasant surprise of an order that is just a few CBM over one container. Read how Verzend voorwaarden decide who pays for freight, and see our Verzend informatie.
