Brands plan in bottles: 5,000 units of 30 ml, say. The manufacturer buys and invoices oil by the kilo or litre. That gap causes mistakes: an order too small that halts filling, or a surplus that ties up capital.
The core formula
Weight = volume × density. Argan oil is lighter than water, with a density typically around 0.91 to 0.92 g/ml, varying slightly by batch and temperature. Ask for the figure on the technical data sheet of your specific batch.
- Net volume: bottles × fill volume (5,000 × 30 ml = 150,000 ml).
- Convert: 150,000 × 0.92 ≈ 138 kg.
- Add a loss allowance: agreed with the manufacturer based on the line and batch size.
- Add samples and testing: lab samples and reference samples.
Illustrative example
| Bottle size | Bottles | Net volume | Approx. weight before loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 ml | 1,000 | 30 L | ≈ 27.6 kg |
| 50 ml | 1,000 | 50 L | ≈ 46 kg |
| 100 ml | 1,000 | 100 L | ≈ 92 kg |
| 30 ml | 5,000 | 150 L | ≈ 138 kg |
With an illustrative 4% loss, the last case becomes about 143.5 kg. The real rate may be lower or higher.
Where does loss come from?
- Priming the line (tubing, pump).
- Calibrating fill volume with test bottles.
- Rejected bottles (cap, dropper, underfill).
- Oil clinging to tank walls.
- Quality control samples.
Smaller batches carry a higher loss percentage. See our article on the pilot batch versus production batch.
What changes the final number
- Nominal fill versus glass capacity: ask for the actual fill volume.
- Dropper displacement: the level rises when it is inserted.
- Density and temperature: agree which unit the invoice uses.
- Extras: marketing samples, trade shows, test sizes.
Also worth reading: lead times in cosmetics manufacturing.
FAQ
Kilos or litres when ordering?
Either works if the unit and density are confirmed in writing.
What loss rate is typical?
There is no fixed rate; ask for an estimate for your batch.
Same maths for culinary argan oil?
Yes: volume × density plus loss, but calculate each product separately.
What about leftover oil after filling?
Put the rule in the quote: delivered to you or kept by the manufacturer.
To work out your quantity by size and grade, request a quote at assilouargane.com/quote. You can see the steps on our process page.
