Trading volume describes the size of a trading position. On MT4 and MT5 it is commonly entered in lots, but the quantity represented by one lot depends on the instrument's contract specification.
Volume, lots and contract size
Volume is the order or position size entered in the platform.
Lot is the platform unit used to express that volume.
Contract size is the quantity represented by one lot for the selected instrument.
Notional position value is based on volume, contract size and the applicable instrument price or conversion rate.
A simplified quantity calculation is:
Volume in lots × contract size = underlying quantity
The notional value shown or used for a programme may require the current market price and currency conversion. Do not assume that one lot has the same value or price sensitivity across Forex, metals, indices, commodities or digital-asset CFDs.
How to check the current specification
Connect to the correct trading account and server.
Open Market Watch in MT4 or MT5.
Right-click the instrument.
Select Specification.
Review contract size, minimum volume, maximum volume, volume step, margin information and trading sessions.
Does higher volume mean higher risk?
Generally, a larger position creates a larger monetary gain or loss for the same price movement. Actual exposure also depends on the instrument, direction, entry price, leverage, margin requirements and any other open positions.
A technical maximum is not a recommended trade size. Choose a volume that is consistent with your risk controls and available margin.
Volume used for rebates or incentive programmes
A rebate, loyalty or partner programme may apply its own qualifying-volume rules, exclusions, holding-time conditions and conversion method. Use the rules for that specific programme rather than the order-ticket volume alone. Programme availability and terms can change.