GN Container Dimensions & Sizes: All Gastronorm Dimensions at a Glance
GN containers (Gastronorm containers) are the standardized container system for professional catering according to DIN EN 631. They fit into refrigerators, combi steamers, bain-maries and service counters. This comprehensive guide explains all GN container sizes, dimensions, materials and applications.
The short answer: The basic size GN 1/1 measures 530 × 325 mm. All other Gastronorm sizes are fractions or multiples thereof: GN 2/1 = 650 × 530 mm, GN 1/2 = 325 × 265 mm, GN 1/3 = 325 × 176 mm, GN 1/4 = 265 × 162 mm, GN 1/6 = 176 × 162 mm, GN 1/9 = 176 × 108 mm. Common depths: 20, 40, 65, 100, 150 and 200 mm.
What are GN Containers?
GN containers are standardized containers for catering according to the European standard DIN EN 631. The abbreviation "GN" stands for "Gastronorm" - a uniform sizing system used worldwide in professional kitchens.
The basis of all GN container dimensions is the size GN 1/1 with external dimensions of 530 x 325 mm. All other Gastronorm sizes are fractions or multiples of this standard size. This ensures GN containers fit perfectly in all common catering equipment such as refrigerators, combi steamers, bain-maries and serving counters.
Advantages of the Gastronorm System
- Universally applicable in all catering equipment according to DIN EN 631
- Stackable and space-saving in every professional kitchen
- Matching lids for GN containers in every size
- Internationally standardized for professional kitchens
- Large selection of materials: stainless steel, plastic, porcelain
- Various depths for different volumes
→ View all GN containers in the shop (stainless steel & plastic, all sizes with lids)
All GN Container Sizes at a Glance
The following table shows all common GN container dimensions with external sizes, area and typical applications:
| GN Size | External Dimensions (mm) | Area | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| GN 2/1 | 650 x 530 | 200% | Large kitchens, pass-through trolleys |
| GN 1/1 | 530 x 325 | 100% | Standard, combi steamer, refrigerator |
| GN 2/3 | 354 x 325 | 67% | Under-counter chillers, compact equipment |
| GN 1/2 | 325 x 265 | 50% | Bain-marie, saladette, buffet |
| GN 1/3 | 325 x 176 | 33% | Sauces, side dishes, topping bars |
| GN 1/4 | 265 x 162 | 25% | Small portions, beverages, desserts |
| GN 1/6 | 176 x 162 | 17% | Spices, dressings, small quantities |
| GN 1/9 | 176 x 108 | 11% | Single portions, sauces, dips |
GN Container 1/1 – The Standard Size
The 1 1 GN container with external dimensions of 530 x 325 mm is the base size of all Gastronorm containers. It fits practically every catering device and is available in various depths:
| GN 1/1 Depth | Volume (approx.) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mm | 1.0 litre | Shallow dishes, cold cuts |
| 40 mm | 2.5 litres | Meat, fish, shallow dishes |
| 65 mm | 5.5 litres | Standard depth, versatile |
| 100 mm | 9.0 litres | Soups, sauces, larger quantities |
| 150 mm | 14.0 litres | Stews, goulash, large portions |
| 200 mm | 28.0 litres | Large kitchens, mass catering |
GN Container 1/2, 1/3, 1/4 Dimensions
The smaller GN sizes are fractions of the GN 1/1 standard and offer flexible solutions for different requirements:
GN 1/2 Container (325 x 265 mm)
Two GN 1/2 containers fit exactly into one GN 1/1 cutout. Ideal for bain-maries, saladettes and buffet service.
GN 1/3 Container (325 x 176 mm)
Three GN 1/3 containers fit into one GN 1/1 cutout. Perfect for sauces, side dishes and toppings in topping bars.
GN 1/4 Container (265 x 162 mm)
Four GN 1/4 containers fit into one GN 1/1 cutout. Suitable for smaller portions and desserts.
GN 1/6 Container (176 x 162 mm)
Six GN 1/6 containers fit into one GN 1/1 cutout. Optimal for spices and dressings.
GN 1/9 Container (176 x 108 mm)
Nine GN 1/9 containers fit into one GN 1/1 cutout. For small sauces and dips.
Lids for GN Containers
Matching lids for GN containers are essential for hygiene and freshness preservation. They prevent drying out, protect against contamination and keep food warm or cold.
Lid Variants:
- Flat lids: Standard lids for closing
- Lids with spoon cut-out: For serving situations
- Lids with silicone seal: Especially tight, for transport
- Transparent lids: Content visible at a glance
Containers made of Plastic vs. Stainless Steel
When choosing the material for catering containers, there are two main options:
Containers made of stainless steel
- Extremely robust and durable
- Dishwasher safe and heat resistant
- Ideal for combi steamers and hot applications
- Hygienic and easy to clean
- Higher purchase costs
Containers made of plastic (polycarbonate/polypropylene)
- Lighter and cheaper than stainless steel
- Transparent – content visible
- Ideal for cold storage and storage
- Not suitable for hot applications
- BPA-free variants available
Technical Data according to DIN EN 631
The European standard DIN EN 631 specifies all technical data for Gastronorm containers:
- External dimensions (length x width)
- Internal radii and edge rounding
- Stacking height and stacking rim
- Handle design
- Material requirements
This standardization ensures that all GN containers from different manufacturers are compatible and fit into standardized catering equipment.
Which GN Size for Which Purpose?
The choice of the right GN container size depends on the application:
| Application | Recommended GN Size |
|---|---|
| Combi steamer | GN 1/1, GN 2/1 |
| Refrigerator | GN 1/1, GN 2/3 |
| Bain-marie / holding cabinet | GN 1/2, GN 1/3 |
| Saladette / refrigerated counter | GN 1/3, GN 1/4 |
| Pizza topping bar | GN 1/6, GN 1/9 |
| Transport / catering | GN 1/1 with lid |
Buy GN Containers at Gastro-Nik
Discover our range of GN containers in all sizes and materials – from stainless steel to plastic, with matching lids and accessories. We also stock GN grids & inserts.
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Last updated on 2 September 2026.