Why are there quality grades?
Importers don’t all sell to the same customer. A premium brand sold in specialist shops needs little white ash and a long burn time, while a distributor selling large volumes in a price-sensitive market needs a good product at a lower cost. That is why we produce coconut charcoal in three grades that differ in ash content and color, moisture, volatile matter, calorific value and briquette strength.
The numbers side by side
| Parameter | Platinum | Super Premium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ash content | 1.6 – 1.9% | 1.9 – 2.2% | 2.3 – 3% |
| Ash color | White | White | Grey |
| Fixed carbon | 80% min | 80% min | 75% min |
| Moisture (max) | 5% | 6% | 8% |
| Burn time | Up to 2.5 hours | Up to 2 hours | 60 – 90 minutes |
| Drop test (from 1 m) | 8 – 10 out of 10 | 7 out of 10 | 5 – 6 out of 10 |
Burn time also increases with larger sizes, so compare grades at the same size.
Platinum: for brands that sell on quality
The top grade, with white ash of 1.6 to 1.9%, a burn time of up to 2.5 hours and the best drop test result. It suits premium brands and customers who compare brands and notice the color and amount of ash on the hookah bowl. If your brand sells at a higher price than competitors, this grade protects its reputation.
Super Premium: the balance between quality and price
White ash of 1.9 to 2.2% and a burn time of up to 2 hours. It is the balanced choice for most distributors: quality your customers will notice, at a lower cost than Platinum. If you are entering a new market and don’t yet know what customers expect, it is a safe place to start.
Premium: for price-sensitive markets
The economy grade, with grey ash of 2.3 to 3% and a burn time of 60 to 90 minutes. It suits markets where price comes first and products are sold in large volumes.
How to read these numbers
- Ash content: what remains after complete burning. The lower it is, the less cleaning the hookah bowl needs.
- Ash color: white ash is a sign many smokers and distributors look for.
- Moisture: lower moisture means faster, more even ignition and a more accurate shipment weight.
- Drop test: we drop 10 pieces from a height of one meter and count how many stay intact. The higher the number, the less breakage during transport and handling.
How to choose
Ask yourself three questions: what price will you sell the box at? Do your customers compare brands? And what do your customers complain about today — ash, burn time or breakage? The answers point to the right grade. If you are not sure, choose “Not sure” in the quote request form and our export team will recommend a grade.
All grades are available in all five shapes. Browse our products and their sizes, then send a quote request with the grade, shape and container type. If you are choosing a supplier for the first time, read 10 questions to ask before your first order.