Wholesale Vape Pods
How Vape Pods Work
A pod is a self-contained vaping unit that houses both the e-liquid reservoir and the coil in a single piece. It connects to a small rechargeable battery device, either by clipping in or through a magnetic connection. Once the pod is finished, it is replaced while the device remains in use.
This is the core reason pod systems have taken over the market. They combine the convenience of disposables with the cost efficiency of reusable devices. For the end user, this significantly reduces long-term costs. Meanwhile, for retailers, it creates a reliable recurring revenue stream, as pods are purchased far more frequently than devices.
Prefilled pods arrive sealed with e-liquid already inside, typically containing 2ml of nicotine salt at 10mg or 20mg. In contrast, refillable pods are supplied empty and allow users to fill them with their preferred e-liquid. While the hardware differs, the customer profiles often overlap, although the stocking strategy for each format remains distinct.
Types of Vape Pods
Prefilled replacement pods are the direct successor to disposable vapes, and the transition has been smooth for most customers. The pod clicks into the device, activates automatically on inhale, and once the e-liquid runs out, it is simply replaced. There is no need for refilling, coil changes, or button operation.
In addition, the flavour range closely mirrors what disposables offered, including fruit, menthol, ice, and tobacco. This means customers do not need to adjust their preferences. From a retail perspective, prefilled pods are currently the easiest products to sell in this category due to their familiarity and convenience.
Stock tends to move fastest in 2ml, 20mg nicotine salt pods from well-known brands such as Hayati, Crystal Prime, RandM, and IVG. These brands already have strong recognition, which naturally supports sales.
On the other hand, refillable pods appeal more to experienced users. These are typically customers who have preferred e-liquids, want control over nicotine strength, or are focused on reducing long-term costs. The pod is manually filled and used until the coil performance declines, after which it is replaced.
Although the margin per individual sale is lower compared to prefilled pods, the customer retention rate is significantly higher. These users frequently return for pods, coils, and e-liquids, often purchasing multiple items together.
Reliable brands in this segment include Vaporesso, Uwell, Voopoo, and SMOK. These manufacturers are known for consistent coil systems, strong availability of replacement parts, and high consumer trust.
For retailers, offering both formats ensures coverage across the full customer spectrum, from beginners transitioning away from disposables to experienced MTL and DTL users.
Prefilled vs Refillable: Which to Stock
The decision isn't either/or. Most shops carry both and let the customer profile determine the split. Convenience stores and kiosks tend to skew heavily prefilled. Dedicated vape shops usually balance toward refillable, with a solid prefilled section for walk-in converts from disposables.
Brand Breakdown
RandM performs well in bulk sales. Its competitive pricing and established trade presence make it a reliable choice for convenience and high-turnover retail environments.
IVG stands out through innovation. Its 2400 multi-flavour system allows users to rotate between four pods in one device, which naturally increases repeat purchases and customer retention.
On the refillable side, Vaporesso leads with the XROS range, offering consistent performance and excellent reliability. Similarly, Uwell and Voopoo provide proven systems with strong compatibility and loyal user bases.
Uwell and Voopoo round out the refillable side with proven coil systems and broad device compatibility. Both attract experienced vapers who know what they want and come back for it regularly.
SMOK remains relevant due to its brand recognition. The Nord range fits well within refillable pod offerings, especially for users seeking higher wattage flexibility.
Nicotine Strength & E-Liquid Compatibility Guide
Getting the nicotine pairing correct is critical. If done incorrectly, customers may either feel unsatisfied or experience overly harsh hits, both of which can lead to poor retention.
For prefilled pods, manufacturers typically standardise at 20mg nicotine salt, which is ideal for smokers transitioning to vaping. Lower 10mg options are also available for lighter users.
For refillable pods, the guidelines are clear. MTL devices with coils above 1.0Ω should use 50/50 e-liquids at 10mg to 20mg nicotine. Meanwhile, sub-ohm and DTL devices with coils below 0.6Ω require high-VG shortfills with lower nicotine levels between 3mg and 6mg.
Fast Movers Right Now
The post-ban market shift is still evolving, but prefilled pods continue to outperform refillable options across most retail environments.
Currently, the fastest-moving products include Hayati Pro Max Plus replacement pods, Crystal Prime pods, IVG 2400 replacement pods, and Vaporesso XROS pods.
At this stage, stock depth is more important than variety. Retailers who focus too heavily on expanding SKUs often miss out on consistent availability of their best-selling products. Therefore, prioritising depth in top-performing lines is the more effective strategy.
UK Compliance – What You Need to Know
All pods in this collection are fully TPD-compliant and registered with the MHRA. This is essential, as non-compliant products should not be sold.
Specifically, prefilled pods are limited to 2ml capacity, and nicotine strength cannot exceed 20mg/ml. Packaging must include proper warnings, child-resistant features, and manufacturer details.
Although disposable vapes were banned in June 2025, prefilled pod systems remain fully legal, provided the device is rechargeable and pods are replaceable.
In addition, the Vaping Products Duty applies to e-liquid rather than hardware. Therefore, it affects prefilled pod pricing but does not apply directly to empty refillable pods.
What to Stock Alongside Pods
Pods rarely sell alone. Pod devices are the most natural cross-sell, especially for customers purchasing replacements without already owning a compatible device.
For refillable pod users, nicotine salts are an essential pairing. Additionally, coils should always be stocked alongside refillable pods, particularly for systems that require separate coil replacements.
By stocking these complementary products, retailers can significantly increase overall basket value.
FAQs
1. Are all pods in this collection TPD-compliant?
Yes, every pod stocked at No1 Vape Wholesale is MHRA-registered and fully compliant with UK TPD regulations.
2. What happened to disposables and how do pods replace them?
Disposable vapes were banned in the UK on 1st June 2025. Prefilled pod systems now serve as the legal alternative, offering the same experience with a rechargeable device.
3. Can prefilled pods be refilled once empty?
No, prefilled pods are sealed units. Attempting to refill them can cause leaks and damage.
4. What nicotine strength should I recommend to ex-smokers?
20mg nicotine salt is the standard starting point, while lighter smokers may prefer 10mg.
5. What e-liquid works with refillable pods?
Use 50/50 nicotine salts for MTL devices and high-VG shortfills for sub-ohm devices. Matching the e-liquid to coil resistance is essential.
6. How long do prefilled pods typically last?
A 2ml pod usually provides around 300 to 600 puffs, depending on usage.
7. Can I mix pod brands in a single wholesale order?
Yes, you can mix brands, formats, and categories within one order.
8. Which brands have the best retail sell-through right now?
Hayati, Crystal Prime, and IVG lead in prefilled pods, while Vaporesso and Uwell dominate refillable options.
9. Do refillable pods need coil replacements?
Yes, many systems require coil replacements, while others use built-in coil pods.
10. What is the shelf life of wholesale pod stock?
Prefilled pods typically last 18 to 24 months, while empty refillable pods last significantly longer.
11. Does Vaping Products Duty affect pod wholesale pricing?
Yes, it applies to the e-liquid inside prefilled pods but not to empty pods or hardware.
12. Are there minimum order quantities for pod lines?
There are no fixed minimums, although bulk orders benefit from better pricing and free delivery over £200.