Convert Gallon (US) (gal (US)) to Barrel (UK) (bbl (UK)) instantly.
About these units
Gallon (US) (gal (US))
The US gallon is defined as exactly 231 cubic inches, or 3.785411784 liters. It is widely used in American commerce for gasoline, milk, water, and other household liquids. Its historical roots lie in old English wine and ale gallons, whose varying definitions ultimately led to divergent US and UK systems. Today, the US gallon remains deeply embedded in American culture, especially in automotive contexts—fuel economy ratings such as "miles per gallon" (MPG) illustrate its everyday relevance. Despite the global shift toward metric volume units, the US gallon persists due to familiarity and regulatory inertia. It remains an iconic unit, symbolizing uniquely American measurement traditions.
Barrel (UK) (bbl (UK))
The UK barrel also varies by context but is commonly set at 36 imperial gallons, or about 163.66 liters. Used in British breweries, distilleries, and older trade systems, the UK barrel historically held ale, beer, and spirits. Barrel sizes were not only a reflection of trade standardization but also taxation. Governments often taxed based on container size, prompting industries to standardize capacities for legal and economic stability. Though less prevalent today due to metrication, the UK barrel remains in use in traditional breweries and historical references. It is an enduring symbol of Britain's long brewing heritage and the complex history of imperial trade.