Restaurant Container Sizes
Restaurant containers help operators store and secure a variety of foods in dry or cold storage to maintain organized, sanitary kitchen environments. Typically made of plastics such as polypropylene and polycarbonate, these tubs are hygienic, durable, and easily identifiable. Commercial kitchens can meet various storage needs by stocking multiple restaurant container sizes, which range from 1 quart to 22 gallons.
Restaurant Container Size Chart
| Container Size | Capacity | Capacity (Liters) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 1-4 qts. | 1-3.8 | Store toppings, garnishes, or ingredients for quick access |
| Medium | 6-12 qts. | 5.7-11.4 | Store common ingredients, hold soups or sauces, marinate meats |
| Large | 18-22 qts. | 17-20.8 | Contain high-use ingredients like rice, beans, flour, etc. |
| Large Storage Boxes | 2-22 gal. | 7.6-83.3 | Bulk storage for high-volume kitchens and bakeries |
Standard Restaurant Container Sizes Explained
Small
The smallest restaurant container sizes hold 1, 2, or 4 quarts and are ideal for storing toppings, spices, dressings, and smaller food portions. Their compact size fits in spaces around prep lines for convenient access.
Medium
Medium-sized restaurant containers typically hold produce, grains, and other everyday ingredients in cold or dry storage. They're also useful for preserving batches of soup or stock or marinating meats. Typical sizes include 6-, 8-, and 12-quart containers.
Large
Large restaurant containers come with 18- and 22-quart capacities and are best for storing frequently used ingredients. They're sturdy and often have built-in handles that ease transport.
Large Storage Boxes
Large storage boxes hold as much as 22 gallons, providing significantly more capacity than most restaurant containers. These wide, low-profile boxes don't have measurement graduations because they're designed for bulk storage in large-volume operations like cafeterias, hotels, and catering kitchens. They're also used in bakeries for holding batter and storing ingredients.
How to Choose the Right Restaurant Container Size
Compare kitchen output and storage needs to find the right container size. Additional considerations include:
- Storage space: Purchase containers that fit existing shelving and walk-in space
- Identification: Find clear options for ease of identification
- Organization and flow: Choose bins that streamline storage and prevent cross contamination
- Alternate applications: Use restaurant containers for marinating, pickling, brewing, and more
Restaurant Container Features
- Materials: Common options include polyethylene, polypropylene, and polycarbonate
- Measurements: Most restaurant containers include graduation marks, while food storage boxes typically don’t
- Handles: Some containers feature side handles or a bail handle
- Shapes: Restaurant containers are square or round, while food storage boxes are rectangular
Learn more about food storage container types in our Learning Center.
FAQs About Restaurant Container Sizes
What are deli container sizes?
Deli containers are small, round containers made for serving takeout portions or storing sides and toppings. Standard sizes include 8-, 12-, 16-, 24-, and 32-ounce options.
What are four types of restaurant containers and sizes?
The common sizes are small (1-4 qts.), medium (6-12 qts.), and large (18-22 qts.) restaurant containers, plus large food boxes (2-22 gal.).
How many ounces are in a standard restaurant container?
Medium restaurant containers typically hold about 200 to 400 ounces.
What is a good size for a restaurant meal-prep container?
When storing prepared meals like pasta, salads, soups, and casseroles, choose a container size based on how many portions you expect to serve. A good rule of thumb is to allot two to four servings per quart, depending on the item being served.
What is the most common container size?
Common container sizes hold 6, 8, and 12 quarts.
Shop All Restaurant Containers at KaTom
KaTom offers a food storage container size for any kitchen task. Whether you're looking for a small ingredient container or a large food box for bulk storage, find the right size at KaTom. Browse top food storage brands such as Cambro CamSquare®, Winco, and Rubbermaid.
