Understanding beverage can dimension is more than knowing basic measurements. The exact height, diameter, and proportions of cans directly impact production efficiency, shipping costs, shelf visibility, and consumer perception.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the precise dimensions of every standard can size, explains why these measurements matter, and helps you choose the right specifications for your product.
Dimensional Comparison Tables
| Can Size | Height (inches/mm) | Diameter (inches/mm) | Volume (oz/ml) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.5 oz | 4.0″ / 102mm | 2.13″ / 54mm | 7.5 oz / 222ml | Mini sodas, kids’ drinks |
| 8.4 oz | 5.75″ / 146mm | 2.12″ / 53mm | 8.4 oz / 250ml | Energy drinks, plain water |
| Can Size | Height (inches/mm) | Diameter (inches/mm) | Volume (oz/ml) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 oz Standard | 4.83″ / 123mm | 2.6″ / 66mm | 12 oz / 355ml | Sodas, beer, tea |
| 12 oz Slim | 6.125″ / 156mm | 2.25″ / 57mm | 12 oz / 355ml | Hard seltzers, ready-to-drink cocktails |
| Can Size | Height (inches/mm) | Diameter (inches/mm) | Volume (oz/ml) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 oz | 6.19″ / 157mm | 2.6″ / 66mm | 16 oz / 473ml | Craft beer, iced coffee |
| 19.2 oz | 7.12″ / 181mm | 2.6″ / 66mm | 19.2 oz / 568ml | C-store beer |
| 24 oz | 8.5″ / 216mm | 2.88″ / 73mm | 24 oz / 710ml | Value beer, energy drinks |
| Can Size | Height (inches/mm) | Diameter (inches/mm) | Volume (oz/ml) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 oz | 7.12″ / 181mm | 4.0″ / 102mm | 32 oz / 946ml | Crowlers, fresh beer |
| 64 oz | 10-11″ / 254-279mm | 4.75″ / 121mm | 64 oz / 1893ml | Growlers, wine, specialty |
Standard Beverage Can Dimensions by Size
7.5 oz Mini Can Dimensions
The mini can stands approximately 4.0 inches (102 mm) tall with a diameter of 2.13 inches (54 mm). This compact dimension holds 222 ml or 7.5 oz of liquid. The smaller footprint makes these cans perfect for vending machines, airline service, and portion-controlled beverages.
8.4 oz Energy Can Dimensions
This iconic dimension measures 5.75 inches (146 mm) in height with a slim 2.12 inch (53 mm) diameter. The 250 ml volume became synonymous with energy drinks. The tall, narrow profile fits perfectly in car cup holders and backpack pockets.
12 oz Standard Can Dimensions
The most common beverage can dimension in the USA stands 4.83 inches (123 mm) tall with a 2.6 inch (66 mm) diameter. This 355 ml format represents the industry standard for sodas, beer, iced tea, and sparkling water. Nearly every production facility can handle this dimension without modifications.
This dimension emerged as the perfect balance between serving size and manufacturing efficiency. The proportions allow efficient pallet stacking with 1,200-1,300 units per pallet. Distributors prefer this size because it moves smoothly through existing logistics networks and fits standard retail coolers.
12 oz Slim/Sleek Can Dimensions
The slim version stretches to 6.125 inches (156 mm) tall while narrowing to 2.25 inches (57 mm) in diameter. It holds the same 355 ml volume as standard cans but creates a completely different visual impression. Hard seltzer brands and ready-to-drink cocktails favor this modern dimension.
16 oz Tallboy/Pint Can Dimensions
The tallboy measures 6.19 inches (157 mm) high with a 2.6 inch (66 mm) diameter. This 473 ml format holds nearly a full pint. Craft beer brands prefer this dimension because it provides ample label space for storytelling and detailed graphics.
19.2 oz Stovepipe Can Dimensions
This convenience store favorite stands 7.12 inches (181 mm) tall with a 2.6 inch (66 mm) diameter. The 568 ml capacity fills the gap between tallboy and full 24 oz cans. Major beer brands target single-serve occasions like sporting events and road trips.
24 oz Oil Can Dimensions
The largest common single-serve dimension reaches 8.5 inches (216 mm) in height with a wider 2.88 inch (73 mm) diameter. This 710 ml format maximizes value perception for mainstream beverages. The bulkier proportions require special consideration for shelf placement and cooler design.
32 oz Crowler Dimensions
The crowler can measures 7.12 inches (181 mm) tall with a significantly wider 4.0 inch (102 mm) diameter. This 946 ml format allows breweries to package fresh draft beer for takeaway. The wider base provides stability during filling and transport.
64 oz Growler Dimensions
The largest standard dimension varies but typically stands 10-11 inches (254-279 mm) tall with a 4.75 inch (121 mm) diameter. This 1893 ml volume serves groups and special occasions. The substantial dimensions position it as a premium sharing format rather than individual consumption.
Beverage Can Dimensions by Category
Different beverage categories show clear dimension preferences based on consumption patterns and market positioning. Brands choose specific measurements to align with customer expectations and retail strategies. Understanding these category-specific dimensions helps position products effectively.
Soft Drink Can Dimensions
Soft drinks primarily use the 12 oz standard dimension of 4.83 inches by 2.6 inches. This measurement became universal through decades of market development. Secondary options include 7.5 oz mini cans for portion control and 16-24 oz formats for value seekers.
Energy Drink Can Dimensions
Energy drinks favor the signature 8.4 oz slim dimension at 5.75 inches by 2.12 inches. This tall, narrow profile became iconic for the category. Some brands offer 12 oz sleek alternatives, but the original dimension remains dominant for premium functional beverages.
Craft Beer Can Dimensions
Craft beer operations rely heavily on 12 oz standard and 16 oz tallboy dimensions. These measurements balance label real estate with production efficiency. The 16 oz format at 6.19 inches height provides 28% more branding space than standard cans.
Hard Seltzer Can Dimensions
Hard seltzers overwhelmingly prefer the 12 oz slim dimension at 6.125 inches by 2.25 inches. The taller, narrower proportions differentiate these products from traditional beer cans. This dimension choice helped establish hard seltzer as a distinct category in consumer minds.
Ready-to-Drink Coffee Can Dimensions
RTD coffee brands favor 8 oz stubby and 12 oz sleek profiles. These dimensions signal craft quality and distance the products from mass-market sodas. The measurements allow for nitrogen sealing that maintains freshness and creates a smooth mouthfeel.
Canned Wine & Cocktail Dimensions
Canned wine uses 250 ml (8.4 oz) single-serve dimensions and 375 ml half-bottle equivalents. The 250 ml dimension typically measures 5.75 inches by 2.12 inches, matching energy can proportions. Ready-to-drink cocktails range from 200 ml to 19.2 oz depending on ABV and occasion.
Other Dimensions: Monster Can Dimensions: Size, Height and Length
FAQ’s
What are the dimensions of a drink can?
A standard drink can in the USA measures 4.83 inches (123 mm) tall with a 2.6 inch (66 mm) diameter. This 12 oz format dominates the beverage market. Dimensions vary significantly by category, with energy drinks using taller slim formats at 5.75 inches by 2.12 inches, while mini cans measure just 4.0 inches by 2.13 inches.
What is the standard size of cans?
The standard can size is 12 oz (355 ml) with dimensions of 4.83 inches in height and 2.6 inches in diameter. This measurement became the industry norm through decades of market evolution. It balances serving size, production efficiency, and distribution convenience across the beverage sector.
What size is a 250ml can?
A 250 ml can corresponds to 8.4 oz and typically measures 5.75 inches (146 mm) tall with a 2.12 inch (53 mm) diameter. This dimension format dominates the energy drink category. The tall, slim proportions create distinctive shelf presence and fit easily in cup holders and bags.
What are the dimensions of a 24 pack of beer cans?
A 24-pack of standard 12 oz beer cans measures approximately 16 inches long, 10.5 inches wide, and 5 inches tall. Individual cans within the pack are 4.83 inches by 2.6 inches. Case dimensions vary slightly between cardboard carriers and shrink-wrapped formats, affecting pallet configurations used by distributors.
How much is a standard can size?
The standard can size is 12 oz (355 ml) in volume with physical dimensions of 4.83 inches height and 2.6 inches diameter. This became the default industry format for soft drinks, beer, and most beverages. The measurement provides optimal balance between consumer preference and manufacturing efficiency.
How big is a 250ml coke can?
A 250 ml Coke can uses similar dimensions to energy drink cans: approximately 5.75 inches (146 mm) tall and 2.12 inches (53 mm) in diameter. This format appears less commonly for Coke than the standard 12 oz size. The taller, slimmer profile differentiates it from traditional soda can dimensions and appeals to customers seeking portion control.
Conclusion
Beverage can dimension represents far more than technical measurements. The specific height and diameter you choose influence production efficiency, shipping costs, retail visibility, and consumer perception. Every millimeter matters when competing in today’s crowded beverage market.
Standard dimensions offer cost advantages and compatibility with existing infrastructure. Unique measurements create differentiation that helps brands stand out on crowded shelves. The most successful companies align dimension strategy with overall brand positioning and target market expectations.
Haru, the dedicated Admin of candimension.com, curates an informational blog on Can Dimension. With passion and expertise, Haru delivers insightful articles to educate and empower readers on this fascinating niche.
