Empty capsule questions, answered.

What types of empty capsules do you offer?

We offer HPMC (vegetable / hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) capsules, gelatin capsules, pullulan capsules, and acid-resistant delayed release (DR) HPMC capsules.

Are your HPMC capsules suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Yes. Our HPMC capsules are 100% plant-based, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly.

What sizes do you supply?

We supply the full spectrum of capsule sizes from #000 down to #5 upon request and hold regular stock for key sizes.

What's the difference between gelatin, HPMC and pullulan capsules?

Gelatin capsules are animal-derived and offer fast disintegration. HPMC capsules are plant-based, remain stable across a wider humidity and temperature range, and suit vegetarian requirements. Pullulan capsules are also plant-based and offer strong oxygen-barrier properties, making them a common choice for sensitive or oxidisable fill materials. Tell us about your product and target market and we can recommend the best fit.

Do you offer capsules for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and food supplement use?

Yes. Our range covers pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and dietary or food supplement applications. Tell us your intended use so we can confirm the right material and any relevant certification requirements.

What quality standards do your capsules meet?

Quality and certification evidence is product-line and manufacturing-site specific. For applicable HPMC lines, the current file includes Non-GMO Project verification, Halal certification, manufacturer compliance declarations, specifications, and batch COAs. We confirm scope and validity against the exact product before supply.

Do you provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs)?

Yes. COAs are available for all batches and can be provided electronically prior to delivery.

Are your capsules tested by third-party laboratories?

Where required, testing such as microbiology and heavy metals can be carried out by accredited third-party laboratories. Documentation is available upon request.

Do you have a quality management system in place?

Yes. Manufacturing partners operate structured quality systems, including HACCP-based controls, internal audits, and traceability procedures.

Can you provide regulatory documentation and certificates for batch tracking?

Yes. The controlled document pack is matched to the product and batch and can include:

• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• Product specification and certificate of conformance
• Safety data and composition information
• Applicable certificates and manufacturer declarations

What HPMC non-GMO, allergen, and BSE/TSE evidence do you hold?

For applicable HPMC lines, we hold current Non-GMO Project verification and manufacturer statements covering the listed allergen matrix, non-irradiation, and animal-origin/BSE-TSE status. We confirm the exact document scope against the selected material, size, colour, and batch rather than applying a blanket claim to every capsule we supply.

Do your capsules comply with regulatory requirements?

Yes. Our capsules are supplied in line with applicable UK, EU, and US regulations for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical use.

Can you provide documentation for audits or approvals?

Yes. We provide documentation to support customer requirements, including specifications, COAs, and relevant certifications where applicable.

Do you have full traceability?

Yes. Traceability systems are in place to track materials through the supply chain, supporting quality control and compliance requirements.

Are your capsules suitable for different filling machines?

Yes. Our capsules are designed for compatibility across a wide range of capsule filling machines, with consistent, reliable locking performance.

Can you support technical issues or capsule performance?

Yes. We provide technical support based on real production experience, including guidance on capsule performance, machinability, and troubleshooting.

What should I check if capsules are denting, missing segments, or misfeeding during encapsulation?

Common operational checks include:

• Module alignment: ensure the upper and lower capsule modules or segment blocks are calibrated and precisely aligned.
• Vacuum pressure: check that the machine's vacuum pressure is not set too high, which can pull or deform shells.
• Clean tooling: thoroughly clean all mould holes to remove powder residue build-up.
• Suction depth: ensure the waste discharge suction device height is properly adjusted.

Do capsules need conditioning before use?

In most environments, no. In very dry or humid production settings, allow the sealed capsule packaging to acclimatise to the filling room's temperature for a few hours before opening it. This can reduce brittleness, condensation, or static-related feeding issues while avoiding unnecessary moisture exposure.

What shelf life can you guarantee?

Our hard empty HPMC and delayed release (DR) capsules carry a manufactured shelf life of 5 years (60 months) from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions. We aim to supply capsules with at least 12 months' shelf life remaining on receipt; a longer remaining shelf life can be arranged when agreed in advance.

How should empty capsules be stored and handled?

• Temperature: store between 15°C and 30°C.
• Relative humidity: maintain between 35% and 65% RH.
• Environment: avoid direct heat sources and rapid temperature fluctuations.
• Handling: keep the inner polybag tightly sealed when capsules are not actively being filled to prevent moisture absorption or drying out.

How are products packed and transported?

Capsules are supplied in standard industry-size boxes and double-bagged internally to protect against contamination. They are stored and transported under controlled conditions, including temperature management where required, to maintain product integrity throughout the supply chain.

How do I place an order?

Orders are placed via purchase order. Our team will confirm availability, lead times, and delivery details upon receipt.

Can I order capsule samples before placing a bulk order?

Yes. We provide quality test samples so you can run evaluation, testing, and compatibility trials on your equipment before placing a full order.

What are the typical packaging quantities per box?

Do you offer volume discounts or recurring supply arrangements?

Yes. We provide tiered bulk pricing depending on your annual or monthly requirements. We can also hold buffer stock in our UK warehouse for scheduled delivery drops.

What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

MOQ varies by capsule size, material, colour, finish, and whether printing is required. Standard catalogue specifications usually have lower MOQs than custom capsules. Tell us what you need and we will confirm the minimum for your order.

What payment terms do you offer?

Payment terms are agreed for each account. Net 30 terms may be available following a satisfactory financial check and approval; your account contact can confirm the terms available to you.

Can I get a quote before ordering?

Yes. Send us the required sizes, materials, colours, and volumes and we will provide a formal quote.

Are prices public?

No. Capsules.com is a B2B supply site. Customer pricing is account-specific and only appears inside the portal.

Where are your capsules supplied from?

We hold stock in both the UK and the US, allowing us to support customers across the UK, US, and Europe with reliable supply and lead times.

What is your typical lead time?

Lead times depend on product and volume, but holding stock locally allows us to support faster turnaround and ongoing supply requirements.

Do you hold safety stock?

Yes. We maintain stock levels to support ongoing production requirements and reduce the risk of supply disruption.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. With warehouses in both the UK and the US, we regularly supply customers across the UK, US, and Europe. Speak to your account contact about other destinations.

Can you supply custom capsules?

Yes. Alongside stocked catalogue sizes and colours, we can supply custom colours, sizes, and printed capsules for specific formulation or branding needs. Custom runs normally have higher MOQs and longer lead times than stocked products.

Can capsules be printed with our logo or branding?

Yes. Custom printing is available subject to artwork review and manufacturing feasibility. Share your artwork and required volumes and we will confirm the MOQ and lead time.

Can you match a specific colour?

Yes. Custom colour matching is available for suitable bulk orders. A physical sample or Pantone reference helps speed up matching and approval.

Are your coloured capsules titanium dioxide (TiO2) free?

Titanium dioxide-free coloured capsule options are available. We confirm the exact composition and supporting documentation against the selected material, colour, and product line before supply.

What happens if there is an issue with a batch?

We work closely with customers to investigate and resolve any issue. Where necessary, affected batches can be reviewed and replaced.

Who do I contact with a question or issue?

Your dedicated account contact is your first point of contact for orders, technical queries, and batch issues.

Can I return capsules?

Contact your account representative as soon as an issue is identified and include the batch or lot number, product details, and a description of the problem. We will investigate and agree the appropriate resolution, which may include a credit, replacement, or authorised return depending on the circumstances.

How do I get started as a new customer?

Contact us with your capsule type, size, colour, and volume requirements. We will arrange suitable samples and a quote, then discuss account approval, payment terms, and delivery.

Are your capsules environmentally friendly?

HPMC and pullulan capsule shells are plant-based. Their environmental profile and biodegradability depend on the specific material, packaging, and disposal conditions, so ask your account contact for the supporting information relevant to the product you are considering.

Can I visit or audit your manufacturing facilities?

Facility visits and supplier audits may be arranged subject to approval, scope, timing, and site requirements. Speak to your account contact so we can review what is needed.