Candle fragrance

Buyers must prioritize the Flash Point, which determines the temperature at which the oil can ignite; for gel candles, a high flash point (>170°F) is essential. Additionally, verify the Scent Throw (both cold and hot) to ensure the fragrance performs well when the candle is unlit and burning. Ensure the oil is 100% concentrated and undiluted to maintain consistency in your wax-to-fragrance load ratios, typically ranging from 6% to 10%.

It is mandatory to request an IFRA (International Fragrance Association) Certificate of Conformity to ensure the oil is safe for its intended use. You must also obtain a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and a Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for every scent. For exports to the US or EU, ensure the ingredients comply with REACH regulations and do not contain prohibited phthalates or parabens if marketing as 'clean' products.

Fragrance oils interact differently with Soy, Paraffin, and Beeswax. Some oils may cause 'sweating' in natural waxes if the solubility is poor. Always ask the supplier for the Vanillin content, as high vanillin levels can cause discoloration (browning) in the wax over time, requiring the use of a UV stabilizer or a vanillin color stabilizer.

Conduct a burn test using a controlled sample size. Evaluate the wick compatibility, as certain heavy fragrance molecules (like spice or wood notes) may clog the wick, requiring a larger size or a different material. Check for shelf stability by observing if the fragrance separates or changes color after being mixed with wax and stored for 48 hours.

Fragrance oils are often classified as Class 3 Flammable Liquids (Dangerous Goods) depending on their flash point. You must ensure the supplier provides a UN-rated packaging and a DGD (Dangerous Goods Declaration). Shipping via air is significantly more expensive for these items; sea freight is more economical but requires climate-controlled containers to prevent oxidation or heat degradation during transit.

Request a Tiered Pricing Structure where the unit price drops by 15-25% for volumes exceeding 100kg. To ensure quality, use Trade Assurance services and specify that the bulk batch must match the Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) profile of the initial sample. This prevents 'batch-to-batch' variance which is a common risk in chemical sourcing.

Check your local Customs Tariff Code (HS Code)—typically 3302.90 for mixtures of odoriferous substances. Be aware that some countries require a Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) declaration or similar environmental imports permits. Always confirm if the supplier can provide a Certificate of Origin to help you benefit from preferential tariff rates under trade agreements.