This section is about what to do before you even contact a supplier. Think of it as packing for a trip: you wouldn't head to the airport without your passport, and you shouldn't email a vendor without knowing your numbers.

First, know your target market's legal limits. If you're selling in the UK or EU, the maximum nicotine strength is 20 mg/mL (2%). In the US, there's no federal cap yet, but the FDA has proposed a 20 mg/mL standard, and some states have their own restrictions. If you're planning to cross borders, check both the origin and destination rules.

Second, decide which nicotine form you need: salts or freebase. This matters more than you think. Nicotine salts are smoother at high strengths, so they're common in disposables (often 35–50 mg/mL). Freebase is harsher, so it's usually used at lower strengths (3–12 mg/mL). If you're not sure, read our pillar guide on nicotine salts vs. freebase for a deeper breakdown.

Third, set your budget for verification. A COA costs money, but it's a few hundred dollars compared to the cost of a bad batch. Include that line item in your procurement plan.