Euro containers follow a fixed size grid. The base sizes 600 × 400, 400 × 300, 300 × 200 and 200 × 150 mm fit together in such a way that small and large containers can be combined and stacked on the same area. This guide explains the modular system using containers from our category EURO-NORM basicline.
The principle: each size divides the next
The size grid is based on a simple division. Each time, the footprint of a container is halved:
- 600 × 400 mm is the largest base size in the grid.
- 400 × 300 mm is half of it: two containers side by side make 600 × 400 mm.
- 300 × 200 mm is in turn half of 400 × 300 mm. Four of these containers cover the area of one 600 × 400 mm container.
- 200 × 150 mm is half of 300 × 200 mm. Four of them fit on the area of 400 × 300 mm.
Because the outer dimensions are matched to one another, you can mix large and small containers in one layer without leaving gaps. The grid is also matched to the Euro pallet: four containers of 600 × 400 mm cover its footprint.
The base sizes at a glance
These basicline containers from the manufacturer Bekuplast show how different in size containers can be within the same grid:
- The Container basicline closed, closed handle, 600x400x70 mm, colour grey is flat and holds 13.7 l at a weight of 830 g.
- The Container basicline closed, open handle, 600x400x320 mm, colour grey has the same footprint but holds 64.5 l and weighs 2200 g.
- The Container basicline closed, open handle, 400x300x220 mm, colour grey holds 20.8 l and weighs 1010 g.
- The Container basicline closed, closed handle, 300x200x120 mm, colour grey holds 5.1 l and weighs 340 g.
- The Container basicline, sides and base closed, 200x150x70 mm, colour grey holds 1.3 l and weighs 130 g.
According to the product data, all of these containers are made of PP-C (polypropylene copolymer) and have closed sides.
The volume shows how much the height matters: the flat 600 × 400 mm container holds 13.7 l, the tall one with the same footprint 64.5 l. Empty, light containers are easier to carry, whereas full tall containers quickly become heavy. So also plan for the weight of the filled containers.
Outer dimensions, inner dimensions and height
The grid refers to the outer dimensions. Whether your goods fit inside, however, depends on the inner dimensions. They are smaller because of the wall thickness:
- 600 × 400 × 70 mm outside, 567 × 367 × 67 mm inside.
- 400 × 300 × 220 mm outside, 367 × 268 × 217 mm inside.
- 300 × 200 × 120 mm outside, 268 × 168 × 118 mm inside.
- 200 × 150 × 70 mm outside, 168 × 118 × 68 mm inside.
The height is free within the grid. Containers with the same footprint come in different heights, as the two 600 × 400 mm containers with heights of 70 mm and 320 mm show. This lets you adapt the volume to your goods without leaving the grid.
Combining and stacking containers
The advantage of the grid shows when you combine containers. Small containers can be arranged in layers on the area of a large one. According to the product text, the 400 × 300 × 220 mm container is stackable and so allows space-saving storage.
When mixing, keep this in mind: containers with the same footprint can be stacked directly on top of each other. Smaller containers on a larger one should cover the area completely and evenly so that the stack stands firmly. Before stacking, clarify which load the lower containers are to carry.
According to the product text, the 200 × 150 × 70 mm container is suitable for manual handling and automated conveyor systems. The manufacturer states that its smooth surfaces are easy to clean.
Typical applications
Small parts storage in workshops and production
Screws, standard parts or spare parts can be sorted into small containers of 300 × 200 or 200 × 150 mm. On the area of a large container, they form a tidy layer that can be moved as a whole.
Order picking and shipping in the warehouse
For larger quantities, containers of 600 × 400 or 400 × 300 mm are suitable. Because they share the same grid, mixed shipments can be put together neatly on one area.
Frequently asked questions
Do containers from different series fit together?
The grid refers to the outer dimensions. Whether containers from different series can be stacked on top of each other safely is stated in the manufacturer's information.
Which size should I choose for my goods?
Measure your goods and compare them with the inner dimensions. Then choose the footprint, and after that the height.
What does open or closed handle mean?
An open handle is a continuous hand opening you reach into. A closed handle keeps the container wall closed. Which version a container has is shown in its name.
How to use the modular system
- Measure your goods and compare them with the inner dimensions.
- Choose a footprint from the grid.
- Choose the height to match the volume you need.
- Combine small and large containers on the same area.
You will find all sizes in the category EURO-NORM basicline. We are happy to answer questions about choosing a container: +49 2237 628095-00, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.