A carton figure is useful only when it belongs to the exact model, configuration and packing method you plan to order. Use this checklist to compare supplier data before asking for a freight quote. The calculation below is an illustrative example, not a PackableSofa product specification or loading promise.
1. Match the packing record to the product
Start with the model or SKU, selected size, upholstery, included components and packaging revision. Confirm whether one saleable unit uses one carton or several. A bed-frame image may show a mattress or bedside furniture that is not part of the proposed order; ask for an explicit included-items list.
For a design such as the Luna Arched Compressed Bed, request the current packing record for your intended configuration. Catalogue renderings are design references; request production sample photos when checking what is supplied.
2. Request external measurements for every carton
- Carton length, width and height, with the measurement unit stated.
- Number of each carton type per complete product, and total ordered units.
- Net product weight and gross packed weight, clearly distinguished.
- Whether measurements describe loose cartons or the final palletised shipment.
- Any restrictions on stacking, orientation or handling, and how they were established.
Use measurements of the final packed exterior rather than furniture dimensions or an empty box drawing. If pallets or other outer packing are used, ask the forwarder which dimensions and weights are needed for the shipment quotation.
3. Calculate cubic metres consistently
For measurements in metres: CBM per carton = length × width × height.
For measurements in centimetres: CBM per carton = length × width × height ÷ 1,000,000. Multiply each carton type’s CBM by its quantity, then add the totals.
Worked example only: carton A measures 100 × 50 × 40 cm, so its volume is 0.20 m³. Carton B measures 100 × 40 × 30 cm, so its volume is 0.12 m³. If a hypothetical product needs one of each carton, one complete unit occupies 0.32 m³ in carton volume. Fifty units total 16 m³, before any additional outer packing. These figures do not describe a product offered on this site.
4. Separate carton volume from a loading plan
Total CBM is a comparison input, not a verified container loading quantity. Ask for a loading layout that considers the actual carton shapes, door access, permitted orientation, stacking limits, handling space and weight limits. A volume-only division cannot show whether the proposed arrangement fits or protects the goods.
Ask what supports the proposed loading quantity: a layout, photographs of the same packing configuration, or an actual loading record. Check that the evidence matches your model mix and packaging revision.
5. Send a complete freight enquiry
Give your forwarder the origin, destination, shipment quantities, packing measurements, gross weight and handling requirements. Ask which services and charges the quote covers and when it expires. The forwarder’s charging rules determine the quote; cubic volume alone is not a freight price.
DHL’s freight quote guide explains the role of dimensions, volume, weight and handling information in preparing a quotation. Use the rules quoted for your shipment.
Prepare your request
Send the model, configuration, destination, quantity, carton count and any packing records you already have. Mark missing values as “to be confirmed” so your team can resolve them before order approval.
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