How to Choose an Aluminum Tin for Candles: Wax Volume, Size, and Lid Fit
Choose a candle tin by wax volume first, then by tin size and lid fit. Confirm the size, lid, and finish with a sample before bulk production.
Start with the wax volume, then choose a tin size that fits that volume without excess empty space. Confirm the chosen tin and lid with a sample filled with the actual wax before bulk production, because the right tin depends on the wax volume, the container shape, and how the closed tin looks and feels.
1. Start with wax volume, not with a size name
A size name alone does not tell you whether a tin suits a candle. Two tins with similar names can hold different amounts, and a tin that is too small for the wax volume can be hard to fill and label, while a tin that is much larger than the wax volume can look empty. Work out the wax volume first, then shortlist tin sizes that fit that volume.
2. Check the complete set size
Use the complete set size, diameter by height, when you compare tins. The table below lists the standard aluminum box sizes from the factory specification, product and size only.
| Product | Size |
|---|---|
| 10g | 35 x 18 mm |
| 15g | 38.5 x 19.5 mm |
| 20g | 47 x 20 mm |
| 30g | 52 x 20 mm |
| 50g | 57 x 26.5 mm |
| 60g | 68 x 26 mm |
| 80g | 68 x 35 mm |
| 100g | 83 x 27 mm |
| 150g | 83 x 38 mm |
| 200g | 92 x 44.5 mm |
A larger diameter gives more surface for the wax pool, and a taller tin gives more room for the wax depth. Do not choose by diameter alone, and do not assume a lid fits a particular box only because the diameters look close. Confirm the lid fit on the actual container.
3. Choose the lid and closure for how the candle will be used
A candle tin is usually opened, burned, and closed again, so the lid must close securely and be easy to open more than once. A screw-top lid suits a resealable closure. Check the closed tin for appearance and fit, and check that the lid stays secure when the tin is handled and stored.
4. Choose finish and printing after size and lid
Finishes listed in the site FAQ are silver, matte, brushed, polished, and custom color. Printing listed in the site FAQ is silk screen, laser engraving, or offset printing, plus embossing and debossing. Confirm the finish and printing for the chosen tin before ordering, and check the printed sample for legibility and appearance on the actual tin surface.
5. Confirm timing and quantity before ordering
The standard MOQ is 5,000 pcs per SKU. Smaller trial orders may be available depending on the product, so confirm volume before ordering. Sample production usually takes 3-7 days. Bulk production is 15-20 days after sample approval, and custom mold development typically adds 7-15 days before mass production. Confirm size, finish, printing, sample, and production timing in writing before bulk production.
Checklist before bulk production
- Wax volume confirmed
- Tin size shortlisted by complete set size
- Lid fit confirmed on the actual container
- Finish and printing confirmed for the chosen tin
- Sample checked against the actual wax, not against a size name alone
- Quantity per SKU, sample, and production timing confirmed in writing
FAQ
Q: What size tin suits a candle?
A: Start with the wax volume, then choose a tin size that fits that volume without excess empty space. Confirm the size with a sample before bulk production, because the right size depends on the wax volume and the container shape.
Q: What is the MOQ for candle tins?
A: The standard MOQ is 5,000 pcs per SKU. Smaller trial orders may be available depending on the product, so confirm volume before ordering.
Q: How long do candle tins take?
A: Bulk production is 15-20 days after sample approval. Sample production usually takes 3-7 days, and custom mold development typically adds 7-15 days before mass production.
Q: Can I order a custom candle tin size?
A: Yes. In-house mold development can design and tool a custom diameter, height, or shape. Confirm the final dimensions with a sample before bulk production.
Frequently asked questions
What size tin suits a candle?
Start with the wax volume, then choose a tin size that fits that volume without excess empty space. Confirm the size with a sample before bulk production, because the right size depends on the wax volume and the container shape.
What is the MOQ for candle tins?
The standard MOQ is 5,000 pcs per SKU. Smaller trial orders may be available depending on the product, so confirm volume before ordering.
How long do candle tins take?
Bulk production is 15-20 days after sample approval. Sample production usually takes 3-7 days, and custom mold development typically adds 7-15 days before mass production.
Can I order a custom candle tin size?
Yes. In-house mold development can design and tool a custom diameter, height, or shape. Confirm the final dimensions with a sample before bulk production.
