OEM Scented Candle Pricing Explained
Created on 2025.12.21
What Determines the Cost of Custom Candles for US Brands?
If you are sourcing custom scented candles from an OEM manufacturer, one question always comes first:
For US brands, candle pricing depends on much more than just wax and fragrance. Understanding these cost factors helps you set realistic budgets, avoid surprises, and work more efficiently with your supplier.
1. Wax Type and Formula
Wax selection is a primary pricing factor.
In the US market, soy wax and soy-based blends are the most common choices due to their clean-burning image and strong consumer demand. However, pricing varies depending on:
- Pure soy vs. blended wax formulas
- Stability and melting point
- Performance requirements such as glass adhesion and scent throw
More refined or customized wax formulas generally cost more but help reduce issues like tunneling or frosting in large-scale production.
2. Fragrance Oil Cost and Load Percentage
Fragrance oil is often one of the highest variable costs.
OEM candle pricing is influenced by:
- Quality and origin of fragrance oils
- IFRA-compliant formulations suitable for the US market
- Fragrance load percentage (typically 6%–10%)
- Custom scent development vs. existing fragrances
Higher fragrance loads improve scent throw but increase material cost and require additional testing.
3. Wick Selection and Burn Testing
Wick selection directly affects burn performance and customer experience.
Cost factors include:
- Wick type (cotton, paper-core, or wooden wick)
- Wick size matching the container diameter
- Burn testing to prevent smoking, tunneling, or uneven melting
For US retail and Amazon sellers, consistent burn performance is critical to avoid negative reviews.
4. Jar, Tin, or Vessel Choice
Container choice affects both unit cost and shipping cost.
Common options for US brands include:
- Glass jars (clear or frosted)
- Metal tins (lightweight and travel-friendly)
- Ceramic or premium vessels
Pricing differences depend on material, thickness, customization, and breakage risk during transportation.
5. Labeling and Packaging Requirements
Retail-ready packaging is part of OEM pricing.
Cost is influenced by:
- Label materials and printing methods
- Warning labels and compliance information
- Individual boxes, gift packaging, or bulk packing
US brands often require UPC codes and clean, professional packaging, which adds to total cost.
6. MOQ and Order Quantity
Minimum order quantity (MOQ) has a direct impact on unit price.
Lower MOQs usually result in:
- Higher per-unit cost
- Lower production efficiency
However, low-MOQ orders are ideal for US startups, seasonal launches, and product testing before scaling.
7. Sampling, Lead Time, and Shipping
OEM pricing also includes development and logistics considerations:
- Sampling and performance testing
- Production lead time
- Shipping method to the US (sea or air)
Proper planning helps reduce costs and ensures stable delivery schedules.
OEM scented candle pricing is not about finding the lowest price—it is about creating a product that matches your brand positioning, performance standards, and budget.
To receive an accurate quote, prepare the following:
- Target market
- Jar size and style
- Scent idea or reference
- Target price range
- Expected MOQ
Share your project details, and we’ll help you build a custom candle that fits your market and cost expectations.
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