Benzyl chloride appears as a colorless liquid with an irritating odor. Toxic by inhalation and skin absorption. Flash point 153°F. Slightly soluble in water. Corrosive to metals and tissue. A lachrymator. Density 9.2 lb /gal.Benzyl chloride is a member of the class of benzyl chlorides that is toluene substituted on the alpha-carbon with chlorine.

Benzyl chloride is widely used in industry, mainly in the fields of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, fragrances, dye auxiliaries and synthetic auxiliaries. It is used for the production of benzaldehyde, butyl benzyl phthalate, aniline, phoxim, benzylpenicillin, benzyl alcohol, phenylacetonitrile, phenylacetic acid and other products.