When selecting takeaway soup cups, size is a key parameter affecting portion, cost, packaging, and user experience. Below are typical sizes you will encounter, with a breakdown of their usual volume, typical applications, and how to choose among them.
Common takeaway soup cup volumes include 8 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz, 20 oz, 24 oz, 32 oz and similar increments. For example, the manufacturer LVHUI lists product sizes of 8 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz, 20 oz, 24 oz, and 32 oz on their website.
| Size (US oz) | Approximate Metric (ml) | Typical Use Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| 8 oz | ~ 240 ml | Small single-serving soup, lighter lunch or side soup. |
| 12 oz | ~ 355 ml | Standard portion for soup plus some bread or side salad. |
| 16 oz | ~ 475 ml | Larger individual serving, could serve as main dish for many. |
| 20 oz | ~ 590 ml | Large individual portion or shareable for two with sides. |
| 24 oz | ~ 710 ml | Designed for soups plus generous add‐ons, or share-friendly. |
| 32 oz | ~ 950 ml | Family size, or for higher volume catering use. |
Portion control: Smaller sizes (8 oz, 12 oz) allow cost control and may reduce waste for establishments offering side soups.
Value perception: Medium sizes (16 oz, 20 oz) often strike a balance between cost and customer satisfaction, making them a popular choice.
Shareability and catering: Larger sizes (24 oz, 32 oz) are well suited for group orders, buffets, or premium offerings.
Material and lid compatibility: Ensure that the cup size aligns with available lid systems, insulation (if soup is hot), and stackability for transport.
Branding and shelf space: Choosing a consistent size across your menu can simplify inventory and enhance brand consistency.
Thermal performance: Hot soup demands good insulation or double-wall cups; larger sizes may require sturdier materials or optional sleeve.
Cost per unit: Larger sizes may increase the cost of raw materials and shipping volume; smaller sizes may reduce cost but also reduce margin per sale.
Offering a range of cup sizes enables flexibility to meet different customer needs. A fast-casual dining venue offering only one size may lose opportunities for upselling or waste control. For example, customers wanting a light soup may prefer 8 oz, whereas those making it a main course may opt for 16 oz or more. Additionally, catering orders require larger formats.
Using a reputable supplier such as LVHUI helps ensure that you have access to a full size range, consistent quality, timely production, and reliable delivery. On the LVHUI site one can find the full list of standard sizes and learn about their manufacturing capabilities in the plastics and disposable food-service vessel area.
Menu clarity: Clearly display the available sizes alongside prices so customers know their options.
Standardize lids and accessories: Ensure that lids, sleeves, and labels match whichever sizes you choose.
Inventory tracking: Monitor usage across sizes to adjust ordering and avoid overstocking rarely-used formats.
Branding opportunity: Use the flat surface or side of the cup for logo, messaging, or QR code linking to the menu.
Sustainability: If your target market values eco-friendly products, choose a supplier offering recyclable or biodegradable options. LVHUI highlights environmentally-friendly tableware production.
Thermal considerations: For hot soups, choose materials and lid designs that retain heat and prevent leakage.
Compatibility with transport: Ensure the size works well within delivery bags, boxes or carriers, and maintains structural integrity when stacked.
Selecting the right size for takeaway soup cups is a strategic decision. The commonly available sizes span from 8 oz up to 32 oz, with each tier serving different use cases and customer behaviours. By offering a mix of sizes, a food-service provider can better match portion to demand, reduce waste, accommodate catering needs, and improve profit margins. Working with a trusted manufacturer like LVHUI ensures access to consistent quality, full size range options and reliable logistics support.
By carefully aligning your cup size strategy with your menu, customer base, pricing model and operational workflow, you can enhance both customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
