Choosing the right jerry can starts with understanding exact dimensions. Whether you need containers for fuel, water, or chemicals, knowing jerry can dimensions helps you plan storage space and meet safety regulations.
This guide covers all standard jerry can sizes, heights, and lengths available in the USA market. From compact 5-liter containers to industrial 25-liter options, you’ll find precise measurements for every capacity.
Jerry Can Dimensions Comparison Chart
Quick Reference Table: Standard jerry can dimensions by capacity. All measurements in inches (“) for dimensions and pounds (lbs) for weight. Ranges account for slight variations by manufacturer.
S Small Capacity (1-5 Liters)
M Medium Capacity (10-15 Liters)
L Large Capacity (20-25 Liters)
XL Extra-Large Capacity (30+ Liters)
Note: Dimensions may vary slightly by material (metal vs. plastic) and brand. Always check manufacturer specs for exact fit.
How Jerry Can Dimensions Are Measured
Height measurement runs from the base to the top of the cap. This vertical dimension determines shelf clearance and stacking ability. Most manufacturers list height as the first specification in product details.
Length and width measure the container’s footprint at its widest points. The diameter at the base differs from measurements at the shoulders. Handles and spouts add extra inches to overall dimensions, so factor these into your space calculations.
Capacity versus dimensions often confuses buyers. A 25-liter jerry can holds more liquid than a 20-liter model but may only be 2 inches taller. Wall thickness and design shape affect internal volume without dramatically changing external size.
Standard Jerry Can Dimensions by Capacity
Small Capacity Jerry Cans (1-5 Liters)
5-liter jerry can dimensions typically measure 10-12 inches in height, 8-9 inches in length, and 4-5 inches in width. These compact containers weigh around 1-1.5 pounds empty. Perfect for automotive additives, camping trips, and emergency fuel reserves.
The 5-litre jerry can fits easily in car trunks and under seats. Its small footprint makes it ideal for marine applications and personal use. Food-grade versions store cooking oil, syrup, and drinking water safely in kitchens and RVs.
1-2 liter jerry cans measure approximately 7-9 inches tall with a 5-6 inch length. These mini containers excel at storing hand sanitizers, liquid soaps, and veterinary medicines. Their portable design suits household needs and small-scale operations perfectly.
To put this in perspective, a standard US 12 fl oz Coke can stands at 4.83 inches (12.3 cm) high with a 2.6-inch diameter. A 5-liter jerry can is roughly twice as tall as a soda can, making it compact yet practical for various storage needs.
Medium Capacity Jerry Cans (10-15 Liters)
10-liter jerry can dimensions range from 14-16 inches in height, 10-11 inches in length, and 5-6 inches in width. Empty weight stays around 2-2.5 pounds, making manual handling comfortable. This mid-range size balances portability with substantial liquid capacity for daily operations.
Agriculture professionals prefer this size for chemical storage and field applications. The 10L container fits standard equipment racks while providing enough volume for full workdays. Industrial users appreciate the easier lifting compared to 20-liter models.
15-liter jerry cans measure approximately 16-17 inches tall with similar length and width to 10L versions. The extra 5 liters adds minimal dimensional increase. Commercial operations use this size for cleaning agents and maintenance supplies throughout facilities.
Large Capacity Jerry Cans (20-25 Liters)
20-liter jerry can dimensions stand at 17-18 inches (432-457mm) in height. Length measures 13-14 inches (330-355mm) while width spans 6-7 inches (152-178mm). This standard size dominates industrial and commercial markets worldwide due to its optimal balance.
Empty weight ranges from 3-4 pounds, but filled weight reaches 44-48 pounds depending on liquid density. The NATO military jerry can follows similar specifications. Fuel storage, water transport, and bulk chemical handling rely heavily on this capacity.
25-liter jerry can dimensions measure 18-20 inches (457-508mm) tall, 14-16 inches (355-406mm) long, and 7-8 inches (178-203mm) wide. These heavy-duty containers serve industrial applications requiring maximum capacity. Transportation becomes challenging due to 55+ pound filled weight.
The 25L container suits stationary storage better than frequent moving. Chemical-resistant versions protect hazardous materials in manufacturing facilities. Double-layer options add safety for extreme temperature conditions and corrosive substances in demanding environments.
Extra-Large Jerry Cans (30+ Liters)
30-32 liter jerry can dimensions reach 19-21 inches in height with 15-17 inch length. Width expands to 8-9 inches to accommodate extra volume. These represent maximum practical sizes for manual handling scenarios in most work environments.
Filled weight exceeds 70 pounds, requiring two-person lifting or mechanical assistance. Specialized industrial operations use these for bulk distribution points. Double-layer construction adds protection for petroleum products and aggressive chemicals in processing plants.
Jerry Can Dimensions by Material Type
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) Jerry Can Dimensions
HDPE jerry cans maintain consistent dimensions across production batches. Wall thickness typically ranges from 2-4mm, minimally affecting external measurements. A 20-liter HDPE container matches metal equivalents in height but weighs 40% less empty.
FDA food-grade specifications don’t change dimensional standards in the USA market. Chemical resistance properties make HDPE perfect for acids, bases, and solvents. The material’s flexibility prevents cracking during temperature changes while maintaining shape integrity over years of use.
Transparent HDPE versions use identical dimensions as opaque models. UV-resistant formulations add protective compounds without altering container size. This consistency simplifies storage planning across different liquid types and applications.
Metal Jerry Can Dimensions
Steel jerry cans follow NATO standards with precise 20-liter dimensions. Height measures exactly 17.75 inches (450mm), length 13.5 inches (345mm), and width 6.5 inches (165mm). These military specifications ensure universal compatibility worldwide.
Wall thickness increases weight to 6-8 pounds empty for steel construction. DOT compliance requires specific gauge thickness for fuel applications in the United States. The rigid structure prevents bulging but makes containers heavier than plastic alternatives.
Aluminum jerry cans use identical external dimensions as steel versions. Weight drops to 4-5 pounds empty, offering lightweight advantages. Aviation and racing industries prefer aluminum for its strength-to-weight ratio and premium appearance characteristics.
Different Types of Jerry Cans and Their Dimensions
Type 1 vs Type 2 Gas Can Dimensions
Type 1 gas can dimensions feature simple spout designs with minimal protrusion. Pre-2009 EPA models measure slightly smaller overall due to basic caps. A Type 1 5-gallon (19L) can typically stands 17 inches tall with straightforward pouring mechanisms.
Type 2 gas cans add 2-3 inches to overall height from child-resistant closures. Automatic shut-off features increase spout assembly size. Post-2009 EPA compliance requirements changed dimensional standards significantly for consumer safety across the nation.
CARB-compliant dimensions in California follow stricter regulations. Vapor recovery systems add bulk to cap areas. Understanding these differences matters when planning vehicle storage or selecting containers for interstate transportation requirements.
Specialty Jerry Can Dimensions
NATO military jerry cans maintain the classic 20-liter standard at 17.75 inches tall. These serve as the benchmark for most commercial designs. Racing fuel cans feature quick-fill spouts adding 3-5 inches to standard height measurements.
Water storage jerry cans use identical dimensions to fuel versions but include food-grade materials. Chemical-resistant containers follow standard sizing with reinforced walls. Stackable square jerry cans measure differently than traditional rectangular designs for warehouse efficiency
Jerry Can Storage and Space Planning
Calculating Storage Space Based on Jerry Can Dimensions
Shelf height requirements vary by container capacity significantly. 5-liter cans need minimum 12-inch clearance while 25-liter containers require 22+ inches. Add 2-3 inches extra for safe removal and replacement without damage.
Floor space calculations multiply length by width for footprint area. A 20L jerry can occupies approximately 0.6 square feet of floor space. Multiply by quantity needed to determine total storage area requirements for your facility.
Stacking height limitations follow OSHA guidelines for safe storage practices. Maximum three containers high for 20-25L sizes prevents toppling risks. Smaller 5-10L cans stack up to five high with proper stabilization and securing methods.
Safety clearances around stored containers prevent accidents and allow emergency access. Leave minimum 3-foot aisles between storage rows. Maintain 18-inch clearance from heat sources and electrical equipment per fire codes.
Vehicle Storage Considerations
Truck bed dimensions accommodate multiple 20L containers in standard pickup trucks. Secure containers with tie-downs preventing movement during transport. DOT regulations require proper placement away from passenger compartments for fuel storage.
SUV and car trunk fitting works best with 5-10L compact sizes. Measure trunk depth before purchasing larger containers. A standard US sedan trunk holds two 10L cans or one 20L can with remaining cargo space.
Secure mounting based on jerry can size prevents dangerous shifting during travel. Use ratchet straps or mounting brackets rated for filled container weight. Position containers low in vehicles for stability and lower center of gravity.
More Dimensions: Coffee Can Dimensions: Size, Height, and Length
Question’s
What are the standard dimensions of a jerry can?
The most common standard is the 20-liter NATO jerry can measuring 17.75 inches tall, 13.5 inches long, and 6.5 inches wide. This military specification became the worldwide benchmark. Variations exist by manufacturer but stay within 1-2 inches of these measurements for 20L capacity.
How tall is a 20L jerry can?
A 20L jerry can typically stands 17-18 inches (432-457mm) tall from base to cap top. Metal versions measure exactly 17.75 inches following NATO standards. HDPE plastic versions range 17.5-18.5 inches depending on wall thickness and handle design at the top.
How big is a 5 litre jerry can?
A 5-litre jerry can measures approximately 10-12 inches in height, 8-9 inches in length, and 4-5 inches in width. Empty weight runs 1-1.5 pounds. This compact size fits easily in vehicle trunks, under seats, and in standard cabinet storage for household and personal use.
How big is a 25l jerry can?
A 25l jerry can stands 18-20 inches tall, 14-16 inches long, and 7-8 inches wide. Empty weight ranges 4-5 pounds while filled weight exceeds 55 pounds. This large capacity serves industrial applications where maximum volume matters more than frequent manual handling requirements.
How big is a 25l container?
A 25l container in jerry can style matches dimensions above at 18-20″ height. Other 25L container types like buckets or drums have different dimensions. Square containers use less floor space than rectangular designs. Always verify exact shape and measurements for proper storage planning.
How many litres is a standard jerry can?
The standard jerry can capacity is 20 liters (5.3 gallons) worldwide. This size originated from WWII military specifications and remains the benchmark today. Regional variations exist, but 20L dominates industrial, commercial, and consumer markets across the United States and globally.
What are the different types of jerricans?
Different jerry can types include NATO military (20L steel), Type 1 gas cans (simple spout), Type 2 gas cans (safety features), HDPE plastic (chemical resistant), aluminum (lightweight), water storage (food-grade), and fuel-specific containers. Each type maintains similar dimension ranges but varies in materials, safety features, and regulatory compliance specifications.
Are all fuel cans the same size?
No, fuel cans range from 1-liter portable sizes to 30+ liter industrial containers. Common sizes include 5L, 10L, 20L, and 25L capacities. Material type (metal vs plastic), regulatory compliance (Type 1 vs Type 2), and intended use affect both dimensions and features significantly across different products.
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 gas cans?
Type 1 gas cans feature simple pour spouts and basic caps, measuring smaller overall. Type 2 gas cans include child-resistant closures, automatic shut-off valves, and vapor recovery systems adding 2-3 inches to height. Type 2 models comply with post-2009 EPA regulations requiring additional safety features affecting overall dimensions.
Conclusion
Jerry can dimensions vary significantly from compact 1-liter sizes to industrial 32+ liter containers. Understanding exact measurements helps you choose the right capacity for your specific storage, transport, and handling needs. The standard 20-liter jerry can at 17-18 inches tall remains the most popular across industries.
Choosing the right size depends on your application, storage space, and handling capabilities. Small 5-liter containers suit personal use while 20-25 liter sizes serve commercial and industrial operations. Always verify dimensions match your available space before purchasing.
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.
