Metric to Imperial Board Foot Converter - CM/MM to BDFT Calculator

Convert metric measurements (cm, mm, meters) to Imperial board feet (BDFT). Free calculator with automatic unit conversion for international lumber projects. Supports centimeters, millimeters to board feet.

Last updated: 1/26/2025

Display Options

Metric to BDFT Conversion

Length

Width

Thickness

Quantity

pieces

Cost per Board Foot (Optional)

$

Conversion Results

Board Feet:0.00 BF

Conversion Steps:

Step 1: Convert metric to inches

Step 2: Calculate board feet

Board Feet = (Length × Width × Thickness × Quantity) ÷ 144

Conversion Factors:

  • • 1 centimeter = 0.393701 inches
  • • 1 millimeter = 0.0393701 inches
  • • 1 meter = 39.3701 inches
  • • 1 board foot = 144 cubic inches

How to Convert Metric to Board Feet

Converting metric lumber measurements to board feet is essential for international projects and working with North American lumber standards.

1

Measure in Metric

Measure your lumber in centimeters, millimeters, or meters. Our calculator accepts mixed units - you can use different metric units for length, width, and thickness.

2

Automatic Conversion

The calculator automatically converts your metric measurements to inches using precise conversion factors, then calculates board feet using the standard formula.

3

Get BDFT Results

Receive accurate board feet calculations with imperial equivalents displayed for reference. Perfect for international lumber projects and cost estimation.

Conversion Process

Step 1: Metric to Inches
Inches = cm ÷ 2.54 | mm ÷ 25.4 | m × 39.37
Step 2: Calculate Board Feet
BDFT = (Length × Width × Thickness in inches) ÷ 144

This two-step process ensures accurate conversion from any metric measurement to North American board foot standards.

International Applications

Import/Export

Convert metric lumber specifications to board feet for international trade and customs documentation.

Project Planning

Plan projects using metric measurements while calculating material costs in board feet for North American suppliers.

Cost Estimation

Estimate lumber costs for international projects by converting metric dimensions to board feet pricing standards.

Specification Conversion

Convert architectural plans and specifications between metric and imperial lumber measurement systems.

Quality Control

Verify lumber quantities and dimensions across different measurement systems for quality assurance.

Educational Use

Learn conversion factors and practice calculations for woodworking and construction education programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you convert metric measurements to board feet?

First convert metric to inches: divide cm by 2.54, divide mm by 25.4, multiply meters by 39.37. Then calculate board feet using the standard formula: BDFT = (Length × Width × Thickness in inches) ÷ 144. Our calculator does all conversions automatically.

What metric units can I use with this board foot calculator?

Our calculator accepts centimeters (cm), millimeters (mm), and meters for length measurements. Width and thickness can be entered in centimeters or millimeters. All units are automatically converted to inches for accurate board foot calculations.

Why convert metric lumber measurements to board feet?

Board feet (BDFT) is the standard lumber measurement in North America for pricing and volume calculations. International projects often require converting metric lumber dimensions to board feet for cost estimation, material planning, and compatibility with North American suppliers.

How accurate is the metric to board foot conversion?

Our converter uses precise conversion factors: 1 inch = 2.54 cm exactly, 1 inch = 25.4 mm exactly. Results are calculated to 2 decimal places for maximum accuracy in professional lumber calculations and international trade applications.

Can I see both metric and imperial measurements together?

Yes! Our calculator displays your original metric inputs alongside the converted imperial measurements and final board feet result. This helps verify conversions and provides reference for both measurement systems in international projects.

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