
The freight class of candles depends on various factors, including weight, length, height, density, ease of handling, value, and liability. Beeswax candles, for instance, are classified under HS code 1521.90, while candles made primarily from vegetable wax fall under HS code 1521.10. Most candles, however, are classified under HS code 3406.00. In the context of the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), candles are assigned the code 39810, which is used to determine shipping costs based on transportation characteristics such as density, stowability, handling, and liability.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Freight Class | 0 |
| NMFC Code | 39810 |
| HS Code | 3406.00 |
| Density | Calculated based on weight and size |
| Liability | Based on value and risk of theft, damage, breakability, and spoilage |
| Handling | Whether special equipment or precautions are needed |
| Stow-ability | How it fits with other freight |
| Weight | Heavier items are harder to ship |
| Height and Length | Affects ease of shipping |
| Value | Influences liability |
| Material | Beeswax (1521.90), Vegetable Wax (1521.10), or other materials (3406.00) |
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What You'll Learn

Freight class for wax
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a publication maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It provides a search tool to help determine the appropriate NMFC code for a shipment based on its weight, dimensions, density, and transportation characteristics. There are 18 freight classes, ranging from 50 to 500, and the lower the class number, the lower the freight charge.
Wax is classified under NMFC code 196880 and falls under Freight Class 100. This classification is based on the weight and dimensions of the wax shipment, as well as its density, stowability, handling, and liability.
Petrolatum-resin-paraffin wax compound, on the other hand, has a different NMFC code of 155070 and falls under Freight Class 55. This classification takes into account the same factors as previously mentioned, including weight, dimensions, and transportation characteristics.
It is important to accurately determine the freight class for wax or any other commodity. The classification directly impacts shipping costs, and incorrect classification may result in additional fees. Shippers should pay close attention to the density, weight, and dimensions of their shipments, especially with the recent changes in classification criteria by the NMFTA.
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NMFC classification
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a standard that provides a comparison of commodities moving in interstate, intrastate, and foreign commerce. The NMFC system is in place to define standard freight classes for goods being transported. It sorts freight into several categories, which are continuously amended by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). The NMFC classification is based on four transportation characteristics: handling, stowability, liability, and density.
Handling refers to the ease with which an item or group of items can be moved into and out of a truck. The less heavy or fragile an item is, the less expensive it is to move. This includes any special care or attention necessary to safely and efficiently handle the goods. Stowability refers to how well an item travels with other items. If an item is non-hazardous, not heavily regulated by the government, or does not come packed in an odd shape, it is easier to move other items with it and, therefore, less expensive to ship. Liability refers to how likely a shipment is to break in its packaging, break other items it might come into contact with, or expire during delivery. Finally, density is how much an item weighs in relation to its size.
The NMFC system uses a scale of 50 to 500, with denser and easier-to-handle and stow loads receiving lower classification numbers, while less dense and more difficult-to-handle loads are classified with higher numbers. Cargo with liability concerns can also receive higher classification numbers. A lower class number generally means a lower shipping cost because the item is easier to ship.
The NMFC classification is important for shippers to understand because it directly impacts shipping rates. An item will have a very specific NMFC code and a broader freight class to assist both LTL carriers and shippers about what to expect when transporting the goods. Properly classifying freight can save shippers time and money and ensure on-time delivery.
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HS code classification
The Harmonized System (HS) code is an international standard for classifying products, and it is crucial for successful international trade. The HS code for a product determines its applicable duty rates, compliance, admissibility, and supply chain advantages.
The primary HS code for candles falls under Chapter 34 of the Harmonized System, which covers various products, including soap, waxes, polishing or scouring preparations, and candles. Specifically, candles are classified under heading 3406. Beeswax candles may sometimes be classified under HS code 1521.90 (Beeswax and other insect waxes), while candles made primarily from vegetable wax might fall under HS code 1521.10.
Some specialised candles may have different classifications. For example, candles with therapeutic properties could potentially be classified under Chapter 33 (Essential oils and resinoids; perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations). Candles that are part of a religious or festive set might be classified under the appropriate festive article heading. The way candles are packaged or presented can also affect their classification. For instance, candles in decorative holders might be classified based on the material of the holder, and gift sets containing candles along with other items may be classified as sets.
Additionally, unique or novelty candles, such as those shaped like food items or incorporated into other objects, may require additional scrutiny to determine the correct classification. While the HS code system is internationally standardised, some countries may have specific national subdivisions or interpretations that affect candle classification. Therefore, proper classification is essential for compliance with customs regulations, avoiding delays or penalties, and contributing to accurate international trade statistics.
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Shipping cost
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a publication maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It has 18 freight classes, ranging from 50 to 500, based on weight, length, height, density, ease of handling, value, and liability from theft, damage, breakability, and spoilage. The NMFC code for candles is 39810, which falls under Freight Class 0. A lower class number generally means a lower shipping cost because the item is easier to ship.
When it comes to shipping costs, small businesses often pass on the exact shipping cost to their customers. This is because it is the safest way to guarantee that they do not lose profit, and it is simple to set up through e-commerce platforms or shipping software. However, this may deter customers who want to place large orders due to higher shipping costs.
Alternatively, businesses can include the cost of shipping in their product prices. This allows them to offer free shipping while still making a profit. When setting prices, it is important to understand the variable costs, fixed costs, and profit margins. Variable costs include the cost of each component of the candle, shipping, and sometimes labor. Fixed costs include labor, insurance, and listing fees for online sales.
To calculate the total cost of producing each candle, businesses can use candle-making cost calculators or traditional pricing metrics. A traditional metric is to charge two times the cost for wholesale orders and three to four times the cost for direct sales. A marginal markup percentage can also be set based on costs, with a 25% to 50% margin being a good range for new candle businesses.
When shipping candles, it is important to use appropriate packaging to prevent breakage. This includes using corrugated or honeycomb cardboard wrap, bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, and packing tape.
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International trade
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a publication maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It determines the appropriate NMFC code for a shipment based on its weight, dimensions, density, ease of handling, value, and liability. The NMFC code for candles is 39810.
In terms of international trade, candles are a significant product category, with Europe accounting for about 60% of the worldwide candle import market. The top candle-importing countries include the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and France. Germany is Europe's leading candle importer, with 90% of German consumers having bought home wellness products such as scented candles. France is another key market, with imports growing from €105 million in 2018 to €154 million in 2022. China is France's leading candle supplier, followed by the Netherlands, Italy, and Belgium.
The global candle market is growing, with imports reaching €3.7 billion in 2021 and the global scented candle market expected to be worth $3.76 billion in 2023. The demand for aromatic candles is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.10% from 2023 to 2033, resulting in an overall market value of $5.64 billion by 2033. The United States is the top leader in the candle industry, accounting for more than a third of all global candle sales.
To ensure accurate pricing and compliance with transportation regulations, it is essential to determine the correct freight class for candles based on the NMFC classification system. The NMFC code for candles is an important reference for shipping and logistics operations in the international trade of candles.
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Frequently asked questions
Candles typically fall under the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) code 39810, Freight Class 0. This class is determined by the item's weight, dimensions, density, ease of handling, value, and liability from theft, damage, breakability, and spoilage.
An item's freight class is determined by its transportation characteristics, including density, stowability, handling, and liability.
You can use an NMFC search tool to determine the appropriate NMFC code for your shipment. Alternatively, you can refer to the NMFC tariff publication, which contains rules, descriptions, and ratings of commodities.











































