Hard empty capsules, also called empty hard gelatin capsules or two-piece capsules, are the shells that pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and herbal companies fill with powders, granules or pellets. This guide covers what to check before you buy: sizes, capacity, colours, quality and ordering.
The short answer
Hard empty capsules are two-piece gelatin shells, a cap and a body, that lock together after filling. Choose the size from your fill weight and powder density, pick a colour or print for your brand, and buy from a WHO-GMP manufacturer that supplies a certificate of analysis with every batch.
What are hard empty capsules?
A hard empty capsule has two parts: a longer body that holds the fill and a shorter cap that slides over it. A snap-fit lock keeps the two parts closed once filled. The shells are made from pharmaceutical-grade gelatin, which dissolves quickly at body temperature and releases the contents in the stomach. Learn more about pharmaceutical gelatin.
Hard empty capsule sizes and capacity
| Size | Volume (mL) | Fill at 0.8 g/mL (mg) | Closed length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 000 | 1.37 | 1,096 | 26.1 |
| 00 | 0.90 | 720 | 23.4 |
| 0 | 0.68 | 544 | 21.6 |
| 1 | 0.48 | 384 | 19.4 |
| 2 | 0.36 | 288 | 17.6 |
| 3 | 0.27 | 216 | 15.7 |
| 4 | 0.20 | 160 | 14.3 |
| 5 | 0.13 | 104 | 11.1 |
Size 0 and size 00 are the most common for supplements. For full dimensions, weights and capsules per carton, see our empty capsule size chart and size 0 vs size 00.
Colours and printing
- Transparent: shows the fill, popular for herbal and supplement products.
- Opaque and two-tone: protect light-sensitive fills and build brand recognition.
- Pearl and metallic: premium finishes for standout products.
- Printed: brand name or code on the cap and body for identification.
See how to choose capsule colours and our custom capsule options.
Quality points to check
- Pharmaceutical-grade, TSE/BSE-free gelatin, with Halal and Kosher certificates if needed.
- Moisture typically 13 to 16 percent, so shells are neither brittle nor soft.
- Tight dimensional tolerances for smooth running on filling machines.
- A certificate of analysis for every batch. See how to read a CoA.
Packing and storage
Hard empty capsules are usually packed in food-grade polythene bags inside corrugated cartons and should be stored away from heat and humidity. See how to store empty capsules.
How to order hard empty capsules
- Choose the size from your fill weight and powder density.
- Choose the colour, finish and any printing.
- Request samples and the specification.
- Confirm quantity, packing and delivery, then place the order.
Universe Capsules, Indore, manufactures hard empty capsules under WHO-GMP norms, tested to USP, BP and IP standards, in sizes 000 to 5 and a wide range of colours. See plain gelatin capsules and how to choose a capsule supplier.
Frequently asked questions
Are hard empty capsules the same as empty hard gelatin capsules?
Yes. Both terms describe the two-piece gelatin shells used for powders, granules and pellets.
Which hard empty capsule size is most common?
Size 0 is the most widely used, followed by size 00 and size 1.
How many hard empty capsules are in a carton?
It depends on the size, for example about 100,000 size 0 capsules per carton. See the size chart for every size.
Can I get samples before ordering?
Yes. Contact us with your size and colour.
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