Stowage Factors
Reference stowage factors for common bulk commodities, in cubic metres per metric tonne (m3/MT), plus key maritime unit quick-conversions for cargo planning.
Stowage factors by commodity
| Commodity | Stowage factor (m3/MT) |
|---|---|
| Iron ore | 0.40 – 0.60 |
| Coal (thermal) | 1.10 – 1.40 |
| Coal (coking) | 1.25 – 1.50 |
| Wheat | 1.35 – 1.55 |
| Soyabeans | 1.50 – 1.70 |
| Maize | 1.28 – 1.48 |
| Fertiliser | 1.10 – 1.30 |
| Bauxite | 0.80 – 1.00 |
| Petcoke | 1.40 – 1.70 |
| Woodchips | 1.70 – 2.20 |
| Sugar (raw) | 1.05 – 1.25 |
| Cement | 0.90 – 1.10 |
| Steel | 0.20 – 0.35 |
| Salt | 0.90 – 1.10 |
Quick conversions
| From | Equals |
|---|---|
| 1 metric tonne (MT) | 0.9842 LT / 1.1023 ST / 1,000 kg |
| 1 nautical mile (nm) | 1.852 km / 1.1508 statute miles |
| 1 knot | 1.852 km/h |
| 1 cubic metre (m3) | 35.315 ft3 |
| 1 barrel (bbl) | 158.99 litres |
| 1 bar | 14.504 PSI / 100 kPa |
| 1 kilowatt (kW) | 1.341 hp |
About stowage factors
The stowage factor of a cargo is the volume, in cubic metres, occupied by one metric tonne of that commodity when stowed in a ship's hold. It determines how much cargo a vessel of known grain capacity can carry without exceeding its deadweight or cubic limits.
A low stowage factor (such as iron ore at 0.40–0.60 m3/MT) means the cargo is dense: the vessel reaches its weight limit before filling its holds. A high stowage factor (such as woodchips at 1.70–2.20 m3/MT) means the cargo is bulky: the vessel fills its holds before reaching its deadweight limit.
Stowage factors are indicative ranges. The actual factor varies with moisture content, trim, broken stowage allowance, and how the cargo is packed. Always use surveyor or shipper figures for fixture calculations. Broken stowage (typically 5–15% for bagged or irregular cargo) further reduces the usable cubic.
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Results are indicative only and do not constitute financial, chartering or legal advice. Verify against your charter party terms and current market data.