Logistics Tools
Unit Converter
This tool provides rapid conversion between common units of length, weight, and volume essential for logistics and international trade. Supported units include centimeters (cm), inches (in), feet (ft), meters (m), kilograms (kg), pounds (lb), grams (g), metric tons (mt), CBM, Cubic Feet (CFT), and litres. Whether you are verifying weights and dimensions provided by carriers, unifying data for Packing Lists, or comparing quotation details, you can complete all conversions on a single page to reduce errors caused by inconsistent units.
CBM Calculator ▶
Input the length, width, height, and quantity of your outer packaging to quickly calculate the total volume in Cubic Meters (CBM) and Cubic Feet (Cuft).
Volumetric Weight Calculator ▶
Determine the chargeable weight for your air freight shipment. Input dimensions to convert to volumetric weight based on the ÷6,000 or ÷5,000 DIM factor.
Exchange Rate Converter ▶
Instantly estimate shipping and trade costs with our converter, updated hourly with the latest spot buying rates for all major currencies.
Metric vs. Imperial Comparison
Logistics Unit Conversion Standards
| Unit | Unit Name | Metric Equivalent |
| oz | Ounce | 1 oz = 28.3495 g |
| lb | Pound | 1 lb = 0.453592 kg |
| g | Gram | 1 g = 0.001 kg |
| kg | Kilogram | 1 kg = 1,000 g |
Differences Between Metric and Imperial Weight Units in Logistics
While carriers in Taiwan and across Asia predominantly use kilograms (kg), air and sea freight quotations for U.S. routes—as well as Packing Lists from U.S. suppliers—frequently use pounds (lb). The conversion is approximately 1 lb = 0.4536 kg and 1 kg = 2.2046 lb. Additionally, sea freight “Weight Tons” are often measured in “Metric Tons (MT),” where 1 metric ton equals 1,000 kg. Since weight units directly impact freight calculations and quotation comparisons, we recommend unifying all data into a single unit before reviewing Packing Lists, Bills of Lading (B/L), or quotes to avoid discrepancies and billing disputes.
Conversion Between Taiwan’s “Cai” (才) and CBM
In Taiwan’s sea freight and customs clearance practice, “Cai” (才) is a commonly used volume unit, which refers to Cubic Feet (CFT). 1 Cai equals 0.028317 CBM; conversely, 1 CBM is approximately 35.315 Cai. Less than Container Load (LCL) sea freight often uses CBM or Cai as the basis for quotations and billing. If a supplier or quote is priced in “Cai” while your measurements are metric, you can convert them to CBM for cross-referencing. As a general reference for FCL (Full Container Load) vs. LCL evaluation: a 20ft container typically holds 26–28 CBM, and a 40ft container holds 56–58 CBM.
Solving Your Calculation Queries
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I interpret the various units on a quotation?
Logistics quotations generally categorize units into three types: Length, Weight, and Volume. Sea freight is mostly billed by volume (CBM or CFT/Cai) or weight, while air freight and international express are billed by Chargeable Weight (kg or lb). When reading a quote, first identify the billing basis—whether it is based on volume vs. weight, or actual weight vs. volumetric weight—before comparing prices. If units are inconsistent, use this tool to unify them for a more accurate assessment of your actual costs.
Why is there a discrepancy between my calculations and the carrier’s for volume or weight?
There are three common reasons:
- Measurement Standards: Differences in whether measurements include protrusions (handles, wheels) or the pallet itself.
- Rounding Methods: Small fractional differences can occur when converting between centimeters and inches due to rounding.
- Billing Logic: Carriers typically bill based on “Revenue Tons” (the greater of volume weight vs. actual weight).
We recommend using consistent units and measurement methods, keeping calculations to two decimal places. If a significant discrepancy persists, request the specific billing breakdown from your carrier to verify each item.
