Often new brands approach us at Lagersmith requesting a 12oz slim can... but this can doesn’t exist. The aluminum can industry manufactures cans in four different diameters. These diameters are called Slim, Sleek, Standard and King. Specific volume options are available within each diameter. The largest Slim can is 250ml (about 8.45 oz). A 12oz can is only available as a Sleek or Standard sized can. This is a guide to help you choose the right sized can for your beverage in North America. Lagersmith Can Supply has an inventory in stock for common size cans of each type. [email protected] to source the can you need for your beverage.
Slim Can: Appropriately named Slim cans, these are narrower and taller than standard cans. Slim cans have the smallest diameter of 202 (2.02”) and use a narrower 200 end. Slim cans are more common in Europe and are not commonly manufactured in North America. Slims are typically more expensive and not as readily available. They are often used for energy drinks, wines, coffees, and some soft drinks. The most common Slim can is 250ml (8.4oz), but they are also available in 170ml (5.5oz), 187ml (6.3oz), and 200ml (6.8oz) sizes.
Sleek Can: Sleek cans are like slim cans in they have a tall and narrower look, but they are slightly wider. The term "sleek" is often associated with a modern and streamlined design. Sleek cans have a narrow 204 diameter and use a standard 202 end. Because sleeks use a standard 202 end, finding co-manufacturing partners is easier. The 12oz sleek can is one of the most utilized cans in the United States. The 12oz sleek is commonly used for seltzers, functional beverages, delta 9 cannabis beverages, and energy drinks. Sleek cans are also available in 7.5oz, 8oz, and 8.4oz (250ml).
Standard Can: This is the most common diameter can. It is used for sodas (pop... shout out Minnesota!), beer, and water. The most common standard can volumes are 12oz and 16 ounces. 19.2oz standard cans are utilized for single-serve drinks. The 202/211 x 413 12oz (355ml) standard can has a diameter of 2.6” (66 mm) and a height of 4.81” (122.2 mm). 8oz and 8.4oz standard cans are known as “squatty” or “stubby” cans.
King Can: The term "king can" is used to describe larger-sized beverage cans. Some sizes are commonly referred to as Crowlers™, these cans have the largest body diameter at 307 and fitted with a 300 end. These 32oz and 25.4oz/750ml cans are used as to-go containers for craft breweries. The 24oz can is used as a single-serve package in C-stores.
