How Big Is A Pizza Box? [By Brand]

Pizza is a classic food that everyone loves. But have you ever stopped to think about how big a pizza box is or if the box size varies by brand? Look no further as we have done plenty of research to find you all the answers. With that said, let's dive right in!

The average box dimensions range from 14" to 14" to 18" by 18". But then, it still depends on the brand as they also differ with pizza and pizza diameter. Here are the popular pizza stores and their box sizes:

Pizza Hut: 14" x 14" and 12" x 12"
Domino's Pizza: 16" x 16"
Little Caesars: 14" x 14"
Papa John's: 16.75" x 16.75"

Keep reading as we take a closer look at the dimensions of a pizza box and see just how much pizza it can hold. We'll also explore some fun alternatives to traditional pizza boxes.

What Is The Average Pizza Box Size?

Most people would be surprised to learn that the average pizza box is quite large. The average pizza box is about 18" long and 18" wide.

That's big enough to fit a large pizza, typically 16" in diameter, and a medium pizza with 14" in diameter. Other pizzas also use jumbo pizza boxes 27" by 21" in dimensions.

But then, why do pizzerias use such large boxes? There are two main reasons.

First, it allows them to include a larger margin for error when cutting the pizza.
Second, it gives them more room to include other items, such as napkins, utensils, and dipping sauces.

Pizza Box Sizes By Brand

When it comes to pizza boxes, size does matter. Depending on the brand, pizza boxes can vary in size. So, how big is a pizza box? Here’s a breakdown of the average dimensions of a pizza box by brand:

Pizza Hut: 14" x 14" and 12" x 12"

Domino's Pizza: 16" x 16"

Little Caesars: 14" x 14"

Papa John's: 16.75" x 16.75"

As you can see, there is a pretty extensive range in pizza box sizes. The average size of a pizza box is about 18 inches by 18 inches. But some brands, like Little Caesars, have smaller boxes that are only 14 inches by 14 inches.

Some brands, like Papa John's, have larger boxes that are 16.75 inches by 16.75 inches.

How Much Pizza Can You Fit Into A Pizza Box?

The answer to this question depends on the size of the pizza and the size of the pizza box. It could range from the size of the pizza, such as small, medium, or large.

Small Pizza

A small pizza is typically about 12 inches in diameter. So, if you have a small pizza and a large pizza box (like Papa John's), you can fit up to four small pizzas in one box.

But if you have a small pizza and a small pizza box (like Little Caesars), you can only fit one or two small pizzas in the box.

Medium Pizza

Now let's take a look at medium pizzas. Medium pizzas are typically 14 inches in diameter. So, if you have a medium pizza and a large pizza box (like Papa John's), you can fit up to three medium pizzas in one box.

But if you have a medium pizza and a small pizza box (like Little Caesars), you can only fit one or two medium pizzas in the box.

Large Pizza

Finally, let's take a look at large pizzas. Large pizzas are typically 16 inches in diameter. So, if you have a large pizza and a large pizza box (like Papa John's), you can fit up to two large pizzas in one box.

But if you have a large pizza and a small pizza box (like Little Caesars), you can only fit one large pizza in the box.

Pizza boxes are usually pretty big, but they don't have to be! Try a mini pizza box if you're looking for a smaller option. Mini pizza boxes are typically about six inches by six inches.

So, if you have a small pizza and a mini pizza box, you can fit up to two small pizzas in one box. Or, if you have a medium pizza and a mini pizza box, you can fit one medium pizza into the box.

How Do You Measure A Pizza Box?

When you open the box, most pizza boxes have four scoring or fold lines that create a rectangular shape. You can measure the length of the pizza box can by opening the box and finding the distance between two scoring lines on opposite sides.

You can determine the box's width by measuring the distance between the other two scoring lines. Also, you can calculate the area of the pizza box by measuring the length and width and then multiplying them together.

Besides that, you can estimate the volume of the pizza box by filling it with small objects like beans or marbles and then counting how many things fit inside. Whether you're trying to figure out how much pizza to order or how big your recycling bin needs to be, knowing how to measure a pizza box can be helpful!

Why Are Pizza Boxes Square?

Did you know that pizza boxes were initially made square? It’s true! The first pizzas were made in Italy, and they were cooked in square pans. The square shape of the pan dictated the shape of the pizza box.

Nowadays, you can find pizza boxes in all shapes and sizes, but the classic square box is still the most popular.

What Are Pizza Boxes Made Of?

Now that we know the average dimensions of a pizza box and how much it can hold, let's look at what they're made of. Pizza boxes are usually made from corrugated cardboard, which is recyclable.

What Are Some Alternative Uses For Pizza Boxes?

Pizza boxes have a pretty big environmental footprint. About 3 billion pizza boxes are thrown away each year in the United States alone. That’s a lot of waste!

Fortunately, there are some ways to reduce the environmental impact of pizza boxes.

One way is to recycle them, as we mentioned before. But then, recycling pizza boxes can be tricky because they are getting covered in grease and food residue. To make sure your pizza box is recyclable, give it a good rinse with warm water and let it air dry before putting it in the recycling bin.
Another way is to compost them. You can compose pizza boxes if they are clean and free of food residue. You can also reuse pizza boxes to make fun crafts or use them as storage containers.

Should You Fold Or Roll A Pizza Box?

Anyone who has ever eaten pizza out of a delivery box knows that there is a right way and a wrong way to package it. The question is, folding or rolling the box?

On the one hand, folding the box offers a few advantages. It protects the pizza from being squished, and it leaves a nice, flat surface on which to place the pie. On the other hand, rolling the box has its benefits.

It creates a tighter seal around the pizza, preventing air and moisture from getting in and making the crust soggy. In addition, it allows you to stack multiple pizzas in the same box, which is ideal for large orders.

Ultimately, how to package a pizza comes down to personal preference. But, if you're looking for our opinion, we think rolling is the way to go.

How Do You Build A Pizza Box From Scratch?

You can even make your own pizzeria-style cardboard oven at home if you're feeling creative! Here's the compilation of the materials and the methods you can begin with:

Materials

A pizza box template
Scissors
Duct tape
Decorative paper

Instructions

Once you have the supplies, you can start by cutting out a cardboard square.
Then, use the markers to decorate the box however you like. You can even add a personal message or your favorite pizza toppings.
Finally, use the tape to seal up the box to complete it.

Building your pizza box is fun to show your personality and creativity. Plus, it's a great way to recycle old cardboard boxes. So, you can always try creating or building your pizza box at home.

See this cardboard cutter on Amazon.

To Wrap It Up

While the size of a pizza box may not seem like an essential factor when it comes to enjoying your favorite food, it can make a difference in terms of the taste and texture of the pizza itself.

Next time you’re ordering a pizza, ask for a big enough box to hold your pie without squishing or folding it. And if you want to get creative, try making your pizza box out of recycled materials: be sure to cut slits in the top so steam can escape.

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