The number of gallons in one container of oil depends on the specific type of container. While a standard barrel of oil is defined as 42 US gallons, crude oil and other petroleum products are often shipped in drums that commonly hold 55 US gallons.
Understanding Oil Container Capacities
When discussing "containers of oil," it's crucial to distinguish between a standard unit of measurement and a physical shipping container.
The Standard Oil Barrel: 42 US Gallons
The most widely recognized and traded unit for crude oil globally is the oil barrel. This standard volume of 42 US gallons has historical roots, dating back to the 1870s when it was based on the size of whiskey containers.
- Measurement Standard: The 42-US-gallon barrel is the measurement standard used for pricing, production, and reserves in the oil industry worldwide.
- Equivalencies:
- Approximately 35 Imperial gallons.
- Approximately 159 liters.
Learn more about the Oil Barrel as a unit of volume.
Common Oil Drums: 55 US Gallons
Beyond the standard measurement unit, crude oil and other refined petroleum products are frequently transported in physical steel or plastic drums. A very common capacity for these drums is 55 US gallons.
- Shipping Container: These 55-US-gallon drums are practical physical containers for storing and transporting various types of oil and other liquids, especially when bulk transport in tankers or pipelines isn't feasible.
- Practical Use: They are often used for smaller-scale distribution, industrial use, or even individual consumption.
Find out more about Drums (containers).
Container Types and Capacities at a Glance
To clarify the difference between the measurement standard and common physical containers, refer to the table below:
| Container Type | Purpose | Capacity (US Gallons) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Oil Barrel | Measurement Standard | 42 | Global unit for crude oil pricing and reporting |
| Oil Drum | Physical Container | 55 | Common size for shipping and storage of oil |
In summary, when referring to the standard measurement of oil, one "container" (a barrel) holds 42 US gallons. However, a physical "container" (a drum) that crude oil is sometimes shipped in, typically holds 55 US gallons.
