Commercial can liners are specified by gallon capacity, dimensions, resin and gauge. Ordering the wrong size wastes money and causes overhang or tearing. Here's how to get it right.
Record the container opening circumference or diameter, height and shape. Measure at the widest usable opening rather than relying on the gallon label alone.
For a round container, start with about half of the opening circumference. For a rectangular container, use half of the perimeter of the opening. This gives a starting width; confirm the final liner width on a sample.
Record the container height, the bottom shape or seal requirement, and the rim overhang needed for the selected bag type. Bottom allowance and rim-cuff allowance are separate measurements. Do not apply one universal length formula to every seal type or container shape.
The diagram separates container height, bottom allowance and rim-cuff allowance. Use it as a measurement checklist, then confirm the liner size against the actual container and approved sample.
Typical ranges: 12–16 gal (office/restroom), 20–30 gal (mid bins), 33 gal (standard commercial), 40–45 gal (large), 55–60 gal (industrial drums). Capacity is only a starting point; opening and height determine the final size.
AUREN's 16 Gal core liner is 24 x 33 in with a star seal and perforated coreless-roll format. First measure the actual bin opening and height; then confirm the separate bottom allowance and rim-cuff allowance on a physical sample. This example is not a universal formula for other bag types or container shapes.
High-density (HDPE, gauged in microns) suits light, dry waste with high yield per case. Low-density (LDPE/LLDPE, gauged in mil) suits wet, heavy or sharp waste.
Star-seal (seamless, leak-resistant, conforms to many can shapes) is a common commercial option; flat and gusseted seals suit specific dispensers and container shapes.
Measure these three items separately. The correct allowances depend on the container shape and the approved bag seal; confirm the final liner against the actual container and sample.
| Typical use | Core capacity | Core liner size | Confirm before ordering |
|---|---|---|---|
| Office / restroom | 16 Gal | 24 x 33 in | Opening shape, rim cuff and waste type |
| Commercial bins | 33 Gal | 33 x 39 in | Container opening and required overhang |
| Industrial / large containers | 55–60 Gal | 38 x 58 in | Container height, bottom allowance and rim cuff |
These rows are a specification reference, not a universal fit guarantee. Confirm a physical container measurement and approved sample before bulk production.
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