DMS ConsultancyDigital Shipping Toolbox

Logistics Utilities

Freight Conversion Multi-Tool (All-in-One Shipping Converter)

Convert cargo weights, marine bunker volumes and nautical depth units in a single interface — built for shipbrokers, operators and freight forwarders.

All-in-One Shipping Converter

Ratios used: 1 MT = 0.9842 LT = 1.1023 ST.

Conversions are based on standard international shipping constant metrics and nominal marine fuel densities for informational purposes only.

Cargo weight units in global shipping

International trade documents mix Metric Tons, Long Tons and Short Tons depending on the origin of the counterparty. The weight converter uses fixed ratios (1 MT = 0.9842 LT = 1.1023 ST) so a charter party negotiated in long tons can be reconciled with a stowage plan drawn up in metric tons without ambiguity.

Marine bunker & liquid conversions

Bunker fuel is quoted per metric ton but delivered and gauged by volume. The tool uses the industry-standard petroleum barrel (159 L / 42 US gal) and a nominal fuel-oil density of roughly 7.3 barrels per MT. For final invoicing, always cross-check the density on the bunker delivery note.

Nautical depth and distance units

Meters dominate modern hydrographic surveys, but many charts, pilot books and vessel draft marks still reference feet and fathoms. One fathom equals 6 feet or 1.8288 meters — a constant used unchanged since the 19th century.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Metric Ton, Long Ton and Short Ton?

A Metric Ton (MT) equals 1,000 kg and is the global shipping standard. A Long Ton (LT), used in the UK/Imperial system, equals about 1,016 kg (1 MT = 0.9842 LT). A Short Ton (ST), used in the US, equals about 907 kg (1 MT = 1.1023 ST).

Why does marine fuel convert from Metric Tons to Barrels?

Bunker fuel is bought and stemmed in mass (MT) but stored and pumped in volume. Because density varies by grade and temperature, a nominal conversion of about 7.3 barrels per MT of fuel oil is used for quick estimates.

What is the standard shipping barrel?

The petroleum barrel used in shipping equals 159 liters or 42 US gallons. This tool uses that constant for all liquid conversions.

When are Fathoms still used?

Fathoms are used on nautical charts and in vessel draft or depth-sounding reports. One fathom equals 6 feet or 1.8288 meters.

Are these conversions exact for commercial use?

Weight and depth ratios are exact constants. Marine fuel figures use a nominal density and should be replaced with the actual bunker delivery note (BDN) density for contractual or accounting purposes.