Aluminum Tray Sizes

Aluminum Tray Sizes: A Global Overview

1. Standard Dimensions and Applications

Aluminum trays are categorized by shape (rectangular, round, square), size (length/width), and depth. Below are common sizes with regional usage notes:

• Small Trays (6"–9")

  • Examples: 6" x 4" x 1.5" (individual desserts), 9" x 7" x 2" (single-serve meals).

  • Markets: Popular in Europe for bakery items and in the U.S. for takeout sides.

• Medium Trays (10"–12")

  • Examples: 11" x 9" x 2.5" (standard lasagna pan), 12" x 10" x 3" (roasting dishes).

  • Markets: Widely used in Middle Eastern catering for rice dishes.

• Large Trays (13"–18")

  • Examples: 18" x 13" x 2" (half-sheet pan), 16" x 12" x 4" (deep steam table pans).

  • Markets: Essential in U.S. restaurants and Asian banquet halls.

• Extra-Large Trays (19"+)

  • Examples: 22" x 16" x 2.5" (full-sheet pan), 24" x 18" x 4" (industrial food prep).

  • Markets: Dominant in institutional kitchens (schools, hospitals).

2. Depth Variations and Functional Uses

• Shallow (1"–2"): Ideal for dry goods (pastries, rolls).

• Medium (2"–3"): Versatile for wet/dry foods (casseroles, grilled meats).

• Deep (3"–4"+): Designed for liquids (soups, curries) or layered dishes (lasagna).

3. Regional Sizing Standards

• North America: Follows ANSI sheet pan sizes (e.g., 18" x 13").

• Europe: Uses metric dimensions (e.g., 30cm x 20cm).

• Asia: Favors deeper trays (≥3") for saucy dishes.

4. Procurement Tips for Importers

• Material Thickness: Opt for 0.8mm–1.2mm for durability; <0.6mm risks bending.

• Coatings: Non-stick or hard-anodized trays cater to high-end markets.

• MOQs: Negotiate bulk discounts (e.g., 10,000+ units) with Chinese manufacturers.

• Certifications: Ensure FDA/EC compliance for food safety.

• Customization: Offer branding (embossed logos) to enhance buyer appeal.

5. Supplier Evaluation Checklist

• Sample Testing: Verify heat distribution and warp resistance.

• Lead Times: 30–60 days for bulk orders; expedite for seasonal demand.

• Sustainability: Prioritize suppliers with recycled aluminum (≥80% content).

Aluminum Tray Size Reference Table

Additional Notes:

1. Standard thickness ranges: 0.7mm-1.5mm (thicker for larger trays)
2. Common coatings: Standard, Non-stick, Hard-anodized, Ceramic
3. Capacity based on water volume test (actual food capacity may vary by 15-20%)
4. Most manufacturers offer custom sizing with ±2% tolerance