When buying briquettes, it’s easy to think that more is always better. However, choosing the right pack size is not just about how many briquettes you get, but how much energy and value they provide.
Unlike traditional logs, where weight can be misleading due to moisture content, the consistency of briquettes makes it easy to compare products based on their weight and price per kilogram.
Pack sizes can vary, with common options being 5kg, 10kg, 15kg, and even 20kg. While it might seem obvious that a bigger pack is better value, that’s not always the case.
A 10kg pack with fewer, larger briquettes can last just as long, if not longer, than a pack with more, smaller pieces.
That’s why understanding the weight, price per kilogram, and energy output of your briquettes is essential for making a smart purchase.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the right pack size for your briquettes, so you can get the most heat for your money.
Why Weight is Important for Briquettes (but Not for Logs)
When it comes to traditional logs, weight can be a tricky measure to rely on. The moisture content, tree species, and density of logs vary so much that two logs of the same weight can burn completely differently.
One could be full of moisture, meaning it produces less heat, while the other could be dry and dense, burning hotter and longer.
However, with briquettes, weight is much more consistent and reliable. Briquettes are made from compressed materials, which means they have a uniform density and moisture content. This makes weight an accurate way to compare products.
A 10kg pack of briquettes will deliver the same amount of energy no matter which brand you choose, making it easier to calculate the value you’re getting.
This consistency in weight is why price per kilogram is such a helpful way to compare different briquette options, ensuring you get the best heat output for your money.
Common Pack Sizes for Briquettes
Briquettes come in various pack sizes, and understanding these differences is essential when you’re comparing prices and planning your purchases.
The most common pack weights are 5kg, 10kg, 12kg, 15kg, and 20kg, and each size offers its own advantages depending on your needs.
Smaller Packs (5kg–10kg)
Smaller packs, like 5kg or 10kg, are great for those who don’t use briquettes frequently or have limited storage space.
These packs are easy to handle and store, making them a convenient option for smaller households or occasional grilling sessions. However, you may end up paying a higher price per kilogram compared to larger packs.
Larger Packs (12kg–20kg)
If you use briquettes more regularly or want to stock up for the season, larger packs (such as 12kg or 20kg) can offer better value.
They typically have a lower price per kilogram, meaning you get more heat for your money. However, larger packs take up more storage space, so make sure you have room to keep them dry and accessible.
When comparing prices, it’s important to consider not just the size of the pack, but also how the price per kilogram compares across different products.
Sometimes, a smaller pack might seem cheaper upfront, but a larger pack could give you better value over time.
Price Per Kilogram: The Best Way to Compare Briquette Prices
When you’re shopping for briquettes, the price per kilogram is one of the most reliable ways to compare different products.
It helps you understand the real value you’re getting, regardless of pack size or the number of briquettes inside.
Why Price Per Kilogram Matters
Briquette packs come in various sizes—5kg, 10kg, and even 20kg—but that doesn’t always mean a bigger pack is a better deal.
By calculating the price per kilogram, you can easily compare products and see which offers the most heat for your money.
For example, if one 10kg pack costs $8.00 and another costs $10.00, the price per kilogram for the first pack is $0.80, while the second is $1.00. In this case, the cheaper pack delivers better value.
How to Calculate Price Per Kilogram
To calculate the price per kilogram, simply divide the total price by the pack’s weight in kilograms. Here’s a quick formula:
Price per kg = Total Price/Pack Weight (kg)
This simple calculation can save you money by helping you make smart comparisons between different brands and pack sizes.
In summary, always look at the price per kilogram to get the best value when purchasing briquettes. It’s the easiest way to ensure you’re getting the most heat for your budget!
Number of Briquettes vs. Weight
It’s easy to assume that more briquettes in a pack means better value, but that’s not always the case. The number of briquettes in a pack doesn’t tell the full story—what really matters is the weight and how much energy each briquette can produce.
Larger Briquettes Burn Longer
A pack with fewer but heavier briquettes can often provide more heat than a pack with many smaller briquettes.
For example, a 10kg pack with four large briquettes (each weighing 2.5kg) will burn longer and more consistently than a 10kg pack with ten smaller briquettes (each weighing 1kg).
Both packs weigh the same and have the same energy content, but the larger briquettes will last longer during use.
Don’t Focus on the Count
Instead of focusing on how many briquettes are in a pack, look at the total weight. The energy provided by a pack is based on its overall weight, not the number of pieces inside. A smaller number of larger briquettes will often burn more slowly, providing steady heat over time.
So, when comparing briquette packs, remember: it’s the weight that counts, not the number of pieces.
Pallet Size and Value
When buying briquettes in bulk, the size and weight of the pallet can make a big difference in value. While most pallets weigh around 1 tonne (1,000kg), some are larger or smaller, which is important to consider when comparing prices.
Understanding Pallet Size
If you’re purchasing briquettes by the pallet, it’s important to know that not all pallets are the same size. While 1-tonne pallets are common, some may weigh more or less.
For instance, a pallet could weigh 800kg or 1,200kg, and this affects how much fuel you’re getting for your money.
Check the Price Per Kilogram
As with individual packs, the best way to compare pallet prices is to look at the price per kilogram. A pallet may seem like a great deal at first glance, but a larger pallet might offer better value.
For example, a 1-tonne pallet priced at $400 gives you a price per kilogram of $0.40. If a smaller pallet costs $350 but weighs only 800kg, the price per kilogram jumps to $0.44. That means the larger pallet is actually the better deal.
Buy What You Need
Of course, storage space and usage are also important factors. If you have room to store a larger pallet and use briquettes frequently, a 1-tonne or larger pallet may save you money in the long run.
However, for occasional use, a smaller pallet could still offer convenience without the need for extensive storage.
By checking the pallet size and calculating the price per kilogram, you can ensure you’re getting the best value for your bulk briquette purchase.
Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Pack Size
When it comes to picking the perfect briquette pack size, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The right pack size for you depends on your usage, storage space, and how often you need to replenish your supply. Here are some practical tips to help you make the best choice:
1. Consider Your Storage Space
Before buying in bulk, think about where you’ll store your briquettes. Larger packs or pallets may offer better value, but you’ll need to have enough dry, covered space to keep them in good condition. If space is limited, smaller packs may be more practical, even if they cost slightly more per kilogram.
2. Think About Frequency of Use
How often do you use briquettes? If you rely on them regularly for heating or grilling, it’s worth investing in larger packs or pallets.
These options tend to offer a lower price per kilogram and save you from running out mid-season. However, if you use briquettes only occasionally, smaller packs might be a better option to avoid taking up unnecessary storage space.
3. Check the Price Per Kilogram
Always calculate the price per kilogram to compare different pack sizes. Larger packs may seem like a better deal, but unless they offer a lower price per kilogram, they might not be worth the extra storage hassle.
On the flip side, smaller packs can sometimes be a good option if they provide similar value and are easier to store.
4. Balance Convenience and Value
While larger packs generally provide better value, they also require more handling and space. If convenience is a priority, buying smaller, easy-to-manage packs can be a great option.
For those who are okay with a bit of extra effort, larger packs or pallets will give you the most heat for your money.
By weighing these factors—storage, usage, and price per kilogram—you can choose the pack size that best fits your needs and ensures you get the most out of your briquettes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pack size for briquettes comes down to more than just the number of pieces in a pack.
By focusing on weight, price per kilogram, and how much storage space you have, you can make a smarter, more cost-effective decision.
Larger packs or pallets often offer better value for regular users, but smaller packs may be more convenient for those with limited space or occasional needs.
Remember to always calculate the price per kilogram and consider the burn time of larger versus smaller briquettes.
With these tips in mind, you can make sure you’re getting the most heat and value from your briquette purchase, no matter the pack size.