Knowledge Base
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about sourcing B2B candy with Harborlume — MOQ, certifications, OEM process, and lead times.
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Harborlume supplies 40+ varieties of hard candy including fruit drops (raspberry, strawberry, blueberry, peach, orange), novelty shapes (starfish, seashell, goldfish, heart, UFO, wheel), filled candies, coffee candy, mint candy, ginger candy, puff candy, candy canes, and crystal ball transparent candy. We also supply swirl lollipops in 8 sizes (12g to 200g), 8 series of specialty lollipops (rainbow, twisted, probiotic, LED flash, 3D shaped, sugar-free artisanal), and retail-packaged super sour candies, filled candy bags, board candy sticks, and gift sets.
02Is Harborlume's manufacturing partner FDA registered?
Yes. Harborlume's exclusive manufacturing partner holds FDA Food Facility Registration, HACCP Certification, BRCGS Food Safety Grade B, ISO 9001:2015, HALAL Certification, and SMETA Social Audit — a total of 6 major international food safety certifications, all current and valid. The facility fully complies with US FDA import requirements.
03What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for hard candy or lollipops?
Standard catalog products start from approximately 500kg per SKU. Custom OEM and private label orders typically require 1,000–2,000kg minimum per SKU depending on packaging complexity, custom color, and flavor specifications. Contact our trade team at [email protected] for a specific quote.
04How long does the OEM candy manufacturing process take?
The complete OEM process typically takes 10–16 weeks from initial consultation to warehouse delivery: 1–2 weeks for quotation, 1 week for contract, 2–3 weeks for sample production, 1 week for sample approval, 6–8 weeks for full production, and 2–3 weeks for export, customs clearance, and delivery.
05Does Harborlume offer private label and OEM candy manufacturing?
Yes. We provide complete OEM and private label services including custom flavor development, color matching, packaging design (bags, boxes, tins, individual wrappers), and OEM branding with your logo. We manage the entire process from concept to retail-ready delivery.
06What is BRCGS Grade B certification and why does it matter?
BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standard) is the most widely recognized food safety certification for retail suppliers. Grade B indicates a high compliance score in rigorous audits. It is recognized as a supplier prerequisite by major US and European retailers including Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Whole Foods.
07What candy customization options are available?
Every product is fully customizable: (1) Flavor — any fruit, sour, mint, coffee, ginger, exotic, or proprietary blend. Sugar-free and probiotic options available. (2) Color — full custom color matching including dual-color and rainbow patterns. (3) Packaging — retail bags, gift boxes, bulk cartons, individual wrappers, tins. (4) OEM Branding — your logo, brand name, nutritional info, and regulatory labeling.
08How do I request candy samples from Harborlume?
Email [email protected] or call +1 781 873 2355 (Mon–Fri 9AM–6PM EST), or submit a request at harborlume.com/contact. Our trade team responds within 24 business hours and arranges sample shipment for qualified B2B buyers.
09What markets does Harborlume export to?
Our manufacturing partner exports to 10+ countries including the US, UK, EU (Germany, France, Netherlands), Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Harborlume LLC is based in Massachusetts, USA and primarily serves North American retailers, distributors, and brands.
10What are the payment and shipping terms?
Payment terms (typically T/T with deposit) and shipping terms are confirmed during the quotation stage. Harborlume handles all FDA-compliant export documentation. Shipping is via sea freight (FCL or LCL). A detailed quote including factory cost, freight, and total landed cost is provided before any commitment.
11How long has Harborlume's manufacturing partner been in operation?
Our exclusive manufacturing partner has been producing premium confectionery since 1994 — over 30 years. Their 18,000 m² facility has 5,000+ m² of dedicated production area, holds 6 major certifications, and exports to 10+ countries. Manufacturer details are shared with qualified partners under NDA.
12What is the difference between HACCP and FDA registration for candy imports?
FDA Food Facility Registration grants the legal right to export food to the United States. HACCP is a systematic food safety management system that controls hazards throughout production. Both are required for US candy imports: FDA registration grants market access; HACCP demonstrates ongoing food safety compliance. Our partner holds both, plus BRCGS Grade B and ISO 9001:2015.
Ready to Start Sourcing?
Our trade team responds within 24 business hours. Request samples, get a quote, or discuss your OEM requirements.