8oz, 12oz, or 16oz? The Ultimate Paper Cup Size Conversion Guide (ml & cc)

2025-12-08 18:21

8oz, 12oz, or 16oz? The Ultimate Paper Cup Size Conversion Guide (ml & cc)

Running a coffee shop, restaurant, or catering business in the UK can be confusing when it comes to packaging. You measure your coffee shots and milk in millilitres (ml), but most suppliers sell disposable cups in ounces (oz).

One of the most common questions we get asked at Orderpack is: "How many ml are actually in an 8oz paper cup?"

If you order the wrong size, your Flat White might look half-empty, or your large Latte might overflow. This guide breaks down the exact dimensions, capacities, and best usage scenarios for standard disposable cups to help you make the right choice.

8oz paper cup

The Quick Answer: 8oz to ml

In the disposable packaging industry, a standard 8oz paper cup typically holds approximately 280ml to 285ml when filled to the very brim (rim-full).

However, the practical serving capacity is closer to 227ml to 250ml. This extra "headspace" is crucial—it prevents spills during transport and allows room for milk foam or lids.

Paper Cup Size Conversion Chart (oz to ml)

Below is the standard conversion chart used by most UK and European packaging manufacturers.

Cup Size (Trade Name)	Capacity to Rim (Max)	Practical Fill (Usable)	Best For (UK Menu)
4 oz	~120 ml	~100 ml	Espresso, Macchiato, Sampling
6 oz	~190 ml	~170 ml	Small Flat White, Cortado
8 oz	~280 ml	~240 ml	Regular Coffee, Tea, Cappuccino
12 oz	~400 ml	~350 ml	Large Latte, Americano, Hot Choc
16 oz	~500 ml	~450 ml	Extra Large Coffee, Iced Drinks

Note: "Capacity to Rim" means filling the cup until it overflows. "Practical Fill" is the comfortable liquid level for a customer to hold.

Detailed Guide: Which Size Should You Choose?

1. The 4oz Cup (Espresso Size)

Metric Volume: approx. 100-120ml
Best For: Single or double espresso shots, macchiatos, or free tasting samples at food stalls.

2. The 8oz Cup (The UK Favourite)

Metric Volume: approx. 240-280ml
Best For: This is the standard size for most independent UK coffee shops. It is perfect for a Flat White, a small Cappuccino, or filter coffee.
Why it matters: Precision is key here. If you serve a 250ml drink in a 12oz cup, the customer will feel short-changed. The 8oz cup ensures your "Regular" size looks generous and full.

3. The 12oz & 16oz Cups (The "To-Go" Standard)

Metric Volume: 350ml - 450ml+
Best For: Lattes with extra milk, Americanos with hot water top-ups, or herbal teas. The 16oz is essential if you offer "Large" or "Grande" options on your menu, similar to major chains like Starbucks or Costa.

8oz paper cup

Industry Insights: Why "oz" Varies

You might notice slight variations between different suppliers. This is often due to the difference between Imperial (UK) fluid ounces and US fluid ounces.

1 UK fl oz ≈ 28.41 ml
1 US fl oz ≈ 29.57 ml

While the difference seems small (approx 1ml per oz), it adds up in larger sizes. At Xiamen Orderpack, we standardize our moulds to ensure consistent volumes that fit universal lid sizes (usually 80mm or 90mm diameter), ensuring a leak-proof fit every time.

Beyond Size: Quality Factors You Can't Ignore

When sourcing paper packaging for your brand, size isn't the only spec to check.

GSM (Paper Thickness): A standard cup should be sturdy. Low GSM paper will feel soft and hot to the touch, risking burns. We use high-quality, food-grade paper stock to ensure stability.
Single vs. Double Wall: For very hot drinks (90°C+), a single wall cup might need a sleeve. A double-wall cup offers built-in insulation, keeping the drink hot and hands cool.
Certifications: Always check if your supplier meets local regulations.

8oz paper cup

Why Choose Xiamen Orderpack?

Finding a supplier that balances price, quality, and service is challenging. You need a partner who understands that a "leaky cup" can damage your brand's reputation.

Xiamen Orderpack is a leading industry and trade enterprise specializing in disposable paper food packaging.

20 Years of Experience: We don't just sell cups; we manufacture them. Our deep industry knowledge ensures you get the right product for your market.
One-Stop Solution: From paper cups and bowls to pizza boxes and burger boxes. Our 3,000 sqm warehouse allows us to consolidate your entire packaging list into one shipment, saving you logistics costs and time.
Certified & Safe: We hold full certifications (FDA, FSC,BRC,CE, etc.), ensuring our products meet global safety standards for food contact.
Customization: Whether you are a wholesaler or a restaurant chain, we offer bulk customization to make your brand stand out.