How to Choose the Right Takeout Containers for Your Restaurant
A comprehensive guide to selecting takeout containers based on your menu, budget, and sustainability goals.
1. Consider Your Menu Items
Different foods require different container types. Hot, saucy dishes need leak-resistant containers with secure lids, while salads and cold items can use lighter materials. Match your container to your food:
- Hot entrées: Foam or paperboard containers with tight-fitting lids
- Soups and saucy items: Plastic deli containers or microwaveable bowls with snap lids
- Sandwiches and wraps: Hinged clamshell containers or paper wraps
- Salads: Clear plastic containers to showcase freshness
- Fried foods: Vented containers to prevent sogginess
2. Material Options Compared
Foam (Polystyrene)
Pros: Excellent insulation, lightweight, low cost
Cons: Not eco-friendly, banned in some cities
Paper/Paperboard
Pros: Recyclable, biodegradable, good for dry/low-moisture foods
Cons: Not leak-proof, can get soggy
Plastic (PET, PP)
Pros: Leak-resistant, clear for visibility, microwaveable (PP)
Cons: Environmental concerns, higher cost
Compostable (Molded Fiber, PLA)
Pros: Eco-friendly, appeals to conscious consumers
Cons: Higher cost, requires commercial composting
3. Size Matters
Common takeout container sizes range from 8 oz to 64 oz. Standard sizes include:
- 8-12 oz: Sides, sauces, small portions
- 16-24 oz: Single entrées, large sides
- 32-38 oz: Large entrées, family-style portions
- 48-64 oz: Sharing platters, catering orders
4. Cost Considerations
Container costs typically range from $0.10 to $1.50+ per unit depending on material, size, and customization. Calculate your cost per order and factor it into menu pricing. Buying by the case (typically 100-500 units) provides the best value.
5. Sustainability & Local Regulations
Many cities have banned foam containers and single-use plastics. Check local regulations before ordering. Eco-friendly options include:
- BPI-certified compostable containers
- Molded fiber (sugarcane/bagasse)
- Recyclable paperboard with PE coating
- Plant-based PLA containers
Ready to Order?
Browse our complete selection of takeout containers with wholesale pricing and fast shipping. Orders ship within 1-3 business days.
Shop Takeout ContainersFinal Recommendations
For most restaurants, we recommend starting with a variety pack to test different materials and sizes with your menu. Popular combinations include:
- Hinged foam clamshells (8x8) for hot entrées
- Clear plastic deli containers (16-32 oz) for salads and cold items
- Paper food trays for sandwiches and wraps
- Portion cups (2-4 oz) for sauces and sides
Have questions about which containers are right for your menu? Contact our team for personalized recommendations.