Aluminum beverage cans come in standardized sizes that matter for manufacturers, craft brewers, and packaging designers. Aluminum can size dimensions helps you choose the right container, design proper labels, and meet industry specifications.
This guide covers exact measurements for popular can sizes, from slim 8 oz options to standard 16 oz pints.
Standard Aluminum Can Dimensions
The beverage industry uses a unique sizing system that confuses many newcomers. A 211 can doesn’t mean 211 millimeters—it’s actually a measurement code where the first digit represents inches and the next two numbers show sixteenths of an inch.
Here’s how it breaks down: 211 equals 2 and 11/16 inches, which converts to 2.6875 inches in diameter. This standardized system helps manufacturers, fillers, and label makers communicate exact specifications without confusion.
Standard can measurements include both diameter and height. The diameter determines how much space the can takes up, while height affects label area and shelf presence. Most aluminum cans use 202, 204, or 211 diameter specifications depending on volume capacity.
Popular Aluminum Can Sizes and Their Exact Measurements
The 12 oz standard can dominates the beverage market with dimensions of 4.8 inches (12.2 cm) in height and 2.6 inches (6.62 cm) in diameter. This 355ml aluminum can offers the perfect balance between portion size and portability for craft beers, seltzers, and sodas.
16 oz pint cans measure approximately 6 inches tall with varying diameters. The standard 16 oz uses a 211 diameter (2.6875 inches), while some manufacturers offer 207 diameter versions that stand taller to maintain the same volume with a slimmer profile.
Slim 8.4 oz cans (250ml) feature a 200 diameter specification and stand roughly 5.3 inches tall. Energy drink brands favor this sleek format because it fits easily in cup holders and creates distinctive shelf presence.
The 11.2 oz slick can (330ml) represents the European standard now gaining popularity in US craft beverage markets. These measure about 4.7 inches in height with a 202 diameter, offering a slightly smaller alternative to the traditional 12 oz.
Tallboy 19.2 oz cans stretch to approximately 7.5 inches in height while maintaining standard 211 or 202 diameters. Craft breweries use these for premium offerings and high-ABV beers where larger servings make sense.
Aluminum Can Dimensions for Labeling and Decoration
Label Circumference
Calculated as diameter × π (3.1416). A standard 211 can (2.6875″ diameter) has 8.443″ circumference. Wrap-around labels should be 8.125″ wide for proper overlap.
Standard Label Heights
12 oz cans: 3.625″ (3 5/8″) height.
16 oz cans: 5″ vertical coverage.
These leave balanced margins for sealing and aesthetics.
Slick vs Standard Cans
Slick cans have smooth bodies without traditional necking, offering more printable surface area for full designs and premium branding.
Decoration Methods
Options include full-wrap shrink sleeves, direct digital printing, and pressure-sensitive labels. Shrink sleeves best tolerate diameter variations.
Material Specifications and Weight Standards
Material & Thickness
Aluminum beverage cans use 3004 or 3104 alloy with wall thickness of 0.0097–0.013 inches. This ensures lightweight design while maintaining strength under carbonation pressure.
Weight Standards
An empty 12 oz can weighs just 13–15 grams (0.46–0.53 oz). Approximately 60–70 empty cans equal one kilogram — dramatically reducing shipping costs and environmental impact.
Recycling Excellence
Aluminum cans contain 73% recycled content on average — the highest of any beverage container in North America. They recycle infinitely without quality loss and return to shelves in as little as 60 days.
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Question’s
What are the dimensions of an aluminum can?
The standard 12 oz aluminum can measures 4.8 inches (12.2 cm) tall and 2.6 inches (6.62 cm) in diameter. These represent the most common beverage can dimensions in the United States market.
What size is a 330ml can?
A 330ml can (11.2 oz) typically measures 4.7 inches in height with a 202 diameter specification. European markets use this as their standard size, and it’s gaining traction with US craft beverage producers.
What are the dimensions of a can?
Can dimensions vary by volume capacity. Common sizes include 8.4 oz slim (5.3″ × 2.0″), 12 oz standard (4.8″ × 2.6″), and 16 oz pint (6.0″ × 2.6″). Each serves different market segments and beverage types.
How big is a 500mL can?
A 500ml can (16.9 oz) stands approximately 6.2 inches tall with a standard 211 diameter of 2.6875 inches. Some manufacturers use 207 diameter versions that measure taller but slimmer.
How tall is a 250ml can?
The 250ml slim can (8.4 oz) reaches about 5.3 inches in height. Energy drink brands prefer this format because the narrow 200 diameter (2 inches) creates an elongated, premium appearance.
How big is a 500ml tin?
When referring to aluminum beverage containers, a 500ml “tin” uses the same dimensions as a 500ml aluminum can—roughly 6.2 inches tall by 2.6 inches wide. The term “tin” is a misnomer for modern aluminum cans.
What is the difference between a tin can and an aluminum can?
Tin cans use steel plated with tin and weigh significantly more than aluminum alternatives. Aluminum cans recycle more efficiently, cost less to transport, and dominate beverage packaging. True tin cans now primarily serve food products rather than drinks.
What are the dimensions of a 440mL can?
The 440ml can measures approximately 5.9 inches in height with a 211 diameter (2.6875 inches). This European standard size sits between US 12 oz and 16 oz options.
How many aluminum cans is 1 kg?
Approximately 60-70 empty 12 oz aluminum cans equal one kilogram. The exact number varies based on can size, wall thickness, and manufacturing specifications.
Conclusion
Aluminum can size dimensions empowers better packaging decisions for your beverage brand. Standard measurements like the 12 oz can (4.8″ × 2.6″) and 16 oz pint (6″ × 2.6″) provide proven formats that consumers recognize and retailers stock easily.
The industry sizing system makes sense once you grasp the measurement code. Remember that 211 means 2 and 11/16 inches, and you’ll decode specifications quickly. Whether you’re designing labels, ordering stock, or planning a product line, these dimensions form the foundation of successful beverage packaging in 2026.
I’m the admin of CanSizeDimensions.com, sharing clear and accurate Measurement Guides to make everyday decisions easier. I enjoy simplifying complex dimension details so Readers Can Quickly understand sizes, comparisons, and practical uses. My goal is to provide helpful, reliable information for everyone.