Titanium dioxide is a commodity with very uncommodity-like consequences. A pigment that arrives half a specification point off, two weeks late, or with a different surface treatment than the sample can cost far more than the price difference that won the order. These are the questions worth asking before you place volume with a new supplier.
1. Can you see the actual specification?
Ask for the full technical datasheet for the exact grade, not a generic brochure figure. TiO₂ content, rutile content, oil absorption, residue on sieve, volatile matter and surface treatment should all be published.
2. Which process and which plant?
Sulfate and chloride grades behave differently, and consistency depends on the producing plant. A supplier who cannot name the process and production source cannot promise batch consistency.
3. How is quality verified?
Look for independent or in-house laboratory testing on despatch, certificates of analysis per batch, and retained samples. Our own laboratory in China monitors production and verifies quality before shipment.
4. What happens when a batch drifts?
Ask about tolerance limits, claims handling and replacement lead time. The answer tells you whether you are buying from a trader or a partner.
5. Are samples and trial quantities available?
No datasheet replaces a trial in your own formulation. A serious supplier will send samples and support a production trial before asking for a container order.
6. How robust is the logistics chain?
Check incoterms, packaging, typical lead times, port options and whether the supplier holds or can arrange stock. Duty and tariff exposure on the origin matters too.
7. Is the commercial relationship transparent?
Clear pricing basis, documented specifications and a named technical contact are the minimum. Long-term supply works when both sides can plan.
OxiWhite Global has traded titanium dioxide for ten years, with an export network across 30 countries. Send us an enquiry or browse the grade catalogue.