Export Certification
Requirements Lookup
Pick your product category and your market — US, EU or UK — and see the certifications, directives and standards your shipment actually needs, with the regulation number for each one.
Look Up My ProductReference tool, not legal advice — confirm with a testing lab or customs broker.
Check your shipment in 3 steps
Pick the product category
16 categories — electronics, LED lighting, toys, food-contact goods, medical devices, batteries, packaging and more.
Pick the destination market
US, EU or UK. Each one has different law — the same lamp needs UL and FCC in the US but CE and RoHS in Europe.
Send the list to your factory
Use it as a compliance checklist in your RFQ, so the factory quotes the tests into the price instead of after the deposit.
Compliance is not a factory promise
A factory will always say the product is certified. The question is certified against what, by which laboratory, and under whose name. Compound that with the fact that the same product carries different obligations in the US, the EU and the UK — a Bluetooth speaker is an FCC ID device in America, a RED cybersecurity file in Europe and a PSTI security file in Britain — and you can see why the failure mode of a first order is usually paperwork at the port rather than a broken product.
This table gives you the actual citation for each requirement, so the next email to your supplier is a specification instead of a question. Where a category depends on the exact build — battery presence, radio module, user age, food contact — we mark the entry as conditional and tell you what to verify.
What does my product need?
Choose a category, then a market. Required entries apply to the whole category; conditional entries apply depending on the features of your exact product.
No category matches that word — try “toy”, “textile”, “battery”, “kitchen” or “electronic”.
Electronics & consumer gadgets
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
4 required 3 conditional- Required FCC Part 15 Subpart B (47 CFR 15) — EMC test report for unintentional radiators
- Required UL 62368-1 safety test report issued by an NRTL (UL, ETL, TUV)
- Required DoE energy conservation standards, 10 CFR 430 (external power supplies, chargers)
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (lead, DEHP in cords and housings)
- If applies FCC Part 15 Subpart C/E + FCC ID certification if the product transmits (Wi-Fi, BT)
- If applies CPSIA third-party testing + Children's Product Certificate if designed for under-12s
- If applies UN 38.3 lithium battery test summary (49 CFR 173.185) if shipped with cells
European Union
6 required 3 conditional- Required CE marking — EMC Directive 2014/30/EU (EU Declaration of Conformity + technical file)
- Required Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU for mains-powered equipment (50-1000 V AC)
- Required RoHS 2011/65/EU — 10 restricted substances, test report per homogeneous material
- Required WEEE 2012/19/EU — producer registration in each member state you sell in
- Required REACH (EC) 1907/2006 — SVHC screening in plastics and solder
- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person + traceability on the label
- If applies Ecodesign Regulation (EU) 2019/1782 for external power supplies
- If applies Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU if the product transmits
- If applies EU Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 if a battery is built in
United Kingdom
5 required 2 conditional- Required UKCA marking — Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 (SI 2016/1101)
- Required Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016 (SI 2016/1091)
- Required UK RoHS Regulations 2012 — same 10 substances as EU RoHS
- Required UK WEEE Regulations 2013 — producer registration with a compliance scheme
- Required Plugs and Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994 — BS 1363 plug or approved adaptor
- If applies Radio Equipment Regulations 2017 if the product transmits
- If applies PSTI Act 2022 (SI 2023/504) security duties if it is a connectable product
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
LED lighting & luminaires
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
4 required 2 conditional- Required UL 1598 (luminaires) / UL 8750 (LED drivers) test report from an NRTL
- Required FTC Energy Labeling Rule, 16 CFR 305 — light bulb label
- Required FCC Part 15 Subpart B for luminaires with a switch-mode driver
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (lead in cords, phthalates)
- If applies ENERGY STAR certification if you claim efficiency (voluntary but expected)
- If applies DesignLights Consortium listing for utility rebate sales in the US
European Union
5 required 1 conditional- Required CE marking — Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
- Required Ecodesign Regulation (EU) 2019/2020 for light sources and separate control gear
- Required Energy labelling Regulation (EU) 2019/2015 — new A-G label on the box
- Required RoHS 2011/65/EU and WEEE 2012/19/EU producer registration
- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person and traceability
- If applies EN 60598 series harmonised standards test report for the luminaire type
United Kingdom
4 required 1 conditional- Required UKCA marking — Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016
- Required Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products and Energy Information Regulations 2021
- Required UK RoHS Regulations 2012 and UK WEEE Regulations 2013
- Required Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016
- If applies BS EN 60598 test report for the specific luminaire family
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Textiles & apparel
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
4 required 2 conditional- Required FTC Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, 16 CFR 303 — fibre content + country of origin
- Required FTC Care Labeling Rule, 16 CFR 423 — permanent care instructions (FTC has proposed changes)
- Required Flammable Fabrics Act, 16 CFR 1610 — flammability test for wearing apparel
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (lead, phthalates in prints and trims)
- If applies CPSIA: 16 CFR 1615/1616 flammability + lead and phthalates testing for children's wear
- If applies 16 CFR 1616 children's sleepwear standard if the item is sleepwear up to size 14
European Union
4 required 2 conditional- Required REACH Annex XVII entry 72 (Reg. (EU) 2018/1513) — 33 CMR substances in clothing, skin-contact textiles and footwear
- Required Textile labelling Regulation (EU) 1007/2011 — fibre composition and care labelling
- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person, warnings and traceability
- Required Azo dyes and formaldehyde limits under REACH Annex XVII — test report required
- If applies EU Deforestation Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 due diligence for bovine leather and wood-based fibres
- If applies National textile EPR registration (e.g. France REP Textile, Netherlands UPV Textiel)
United Kingdom
3 required 2 conditional- Required UK REACH — restricted substances in textile and leather articles
- Required Textile Products (Labelling and Fibre Composition) Regulations 2012
- Required General Product Safety Regulations 2005 — warnings, traceability, UK address
- If applies Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 for upholstered or filled items
- If applies UK EPR for textiles: confirm with your UK importer — scheme rules are still developing
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Footwear
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
1 required 4 conditional- If applies No single US federal certificate for adult footwear — compliance sits with labelling and Prop 65
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment — chromium VI, lead, phthalates in components
- If applies CPSIA third-party testing + CPC for children's footwear (lead 100 ppm, phthalates 0.1%)
- If applies FTC Leather Guides, 16 CFR 24 — correct "genuine leather" / "leather-like" claims
- If applies Lacey Act declaration (19 CFR 12.155) for wildlife-derived leather such as snakeskin
European Union
4 required 1 conditional- Required REACH Annex XVII entry 72 — CMR substances in footwear (Reg. (EU) 2018/1513)
- Required Chromium VI limit and azo dye limits under REACH Annex XVII — tested on leather and lining
- Required Footwear material labelling Directive 94/11/EC — material of upper, lining and sole
- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person and traceability
- If applies EU Deforestation Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 for bovine leather components
United Kingdom
2 required 2 conditional- Required UK REACH restricted substances in leather and textile components
- Required General Product Safety Regulations 2005 — UK address and warnings
- If applies Material labelling: confirm retained EU labelling rules with your UK importer
- If applies Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 only if the item has upholstered parts
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Toys & games
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
4 required 2 conditional- Required ASTM F963-23 test report — mandatory toy safety standard (16 CFR 1250)
- Required CPSIA lead limit 100 ppm (15 U.S.C. 1278a) and phthalates 0.1% (16 CFR 1307)
- Required Children's Product Certificate (CPC) based on testing at a CPSC-accepted third-party lab
- Required Permanent tracking label on product and packaging (CPSIA section 103)
- If applies Small parts / age grading (16 CFR 1501) and sharp point and edge tests where applicable
- If applies FCC Part 15 or FCC ID for electronic and radio toys
European Union
5 required 1 conditional- Required CE marking — Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC (a revision regulation is under negotiation)
- Required EN 71-1 (mechanical), EN 71-2 (flammability), EN 71-3 (migration of 19 elements) test reports
- Required Chemical limits per Annex II of 2009/48/EC — CMR substances, 19 heavy metals, allergenic fragrances
- Required EC type-examination certificate from a notified body for categories not self-certifiable
- If applies EMC 2014/30/EU and RED 2014/53/EU for electric and radio toys
- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person, warnings in the local language
United Kingdom
4 required 0 conditional- Required UKCA marking — Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 (as amended)
- Required Designated standard BS EN 71-1, -2 and -3 test reports
- Required General Product Safety Regulations 2005 — UK responsible person and traceability
- Required UKCA technical documentation + declaration of conformity, held for 10 years
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Furniture & home decor
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
3 required 2 conditional- Required STURDY Act — 16 CFR 1261 tip-over test for clothing storage units
- Required California TB 117-2013 flammability labelling for upholstered furniture
- Required Prop 65 warning assessment — formaldehyde, TDCPP and lead in finishes and foam
- If applies CPSIA third-party testing + CPC for children's furniture
- If applies 16 CFR 1213 / 1513 bunk bed standard if you export bunk beds
European Union
3 required 2 conditional- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person, stability and warning requirements
- Required EU Deforestation Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 due diligence for timber and wood-based furniture
- Required REACH — formaldehyde emission and wood preservatives screening
- If applies REACH Annex XVII entry 72 for upholstery textiles in skin contact
- If applies EN 747 / EN 1725 etc. harmonised standards — confirm the applicable one for your type
United Kingdom
3 required 1 conditional- Required Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 — mandatory flammability testing
- Required UK Timber Regulation (UKTR) due diligence for wood and wood products
- Required General Product Safety Regulations 2005 — UK responsible person and warnings
- If applies BS EN 747 (bunk beds) / BS 8509 (children's beds) if applicable to the type
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Kitchenware & food-contact products
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
4 required 1 conditional- Required FDA food-contact compliance, 21 CFR 174-190 — letter of guarantee from the supplier
- Required 21 CFR 177.1520 etc. for plastics in contact with food (resin-specific regulation)
- If applies FDA Food Contact Notification (FCN) if your material is not already listed
- Required 21 CFR 109 / California Prop 65 lead and cadmium extraction limits for ceramic tableware
- Required Prop 65 warning assessment for melamine, bamboo-melamine and decorated ware
European Union
5 required 1 conditional- Required Framework Regulation (EC) 1935/2004 — food-contact suitability and declaration of compliance
- Required Good Manufacturing Practice Regulation (EC) 2023/2006 for food-contact materials
- Required Plastics Regulation (EU) 10/2011 — migration limits + full declaration of compliance
- Required Ceramics Directive 84/500/EEC (as amended by 2005/31/EC) — lead and cadmium migration
- If applies LFGB (Germany) test reports — expected by most German retail buyers
- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person and traceability on the food-contact item
United Kingdom
3 required 1 conditional- Required Retained Regulation (EC) 1935/2004 and retained (EU) 10/2011 — declaration of compliance
- Required Materials and Articles in Contact with Food (England) Regulations 2012 and devolved equivalents
- Required Retained ceramics lead and cadmium migration limits
- If applies General Product Safety Regulations 2005 for non-food-contact parts
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Cosmetics & personal care
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
5 required 1 conditional- Required MoCRA — FDA facility registration (within 60 days of starting, renewed every 2 years)
- Required MoCRA — cosmetic product listing for every SKU (within 120 days of marketing)
- Required US Agent for the foreign facility + safety substantiation file held on record
- Required 21 CFR 701 — ingredient declaration (INCI) and label requirements
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (lead in colour additives, talc)
- If applies FDA drug claim rules or FDA OTC monograph if the product makes a medicinal claim
European Union
5 required 1 conditional- Required Cosmetics Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 — CPNP notification before placing on the market
- Required EU Responsible Person established in the EU named on the label
- Required Product Information File (PIF) + Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) by a qualified assessor
- Required ISO 22716 GMP certificate for the manufacturing site
- Required Fragrance allergen labelling and Annex VI UV filter limits
- If applies Nanomaterial notification (6 months before market) if novel nanomaterials are used
United Kingdom
4 required 1 conditional- Required UK Cosmetics Regulation (retained 1223/2009) — SCPN notification with OPSS
- Required UK Responsible Person with a UK-established address, named on the label
- Required Product Information File + Cosmetic Product Safety Report held for the UK responsible person
- Required ISO 22716 GMP certificate for the manufacturing site
- If applies Nanomaterial notification via the SCPN service where applicable
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Medical devices & health products
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
4 required 2 conditional- Required FDA 510(k) premarket notification for most Class II devices (or PMA for Class III)
- Required FDA establishment registration + device listing, renewed annually (21 CFR 807)
- Required QMSR — Quality Management System Regulation, 21 CFR 820 (aligned with ISO 13485, in force from 2 Feb 2026)
- Required UDI labelling and GUDID submission (21 CFR 830)
- If applies Class I exempt devices: registration only — confirm exemption before shipping
- If applies Note: the FDA does not issue approval certificates — treat any "FDA approved" supplier claim as unverified
European Union
5 required 1 conditional- Required MDR (EU) 2017/745 — CE marking via a notified body for Class IIa and above
- Required ISO 13485 quality management system certificate for the manufacturing site
- Required EUDAMED registration: economic operator, UDI/device data, certificates
- Required Technical documentation, clinical evaluation and post-market surveillance plan
- Required EU authorised representative (MDR Article 11) for a non-EU manufacturer
- If applies Class I self-declaration only where the MDR allows it — verify your classification first
United Kingdom
4 required 0 conditional- Required MHRA registration of the device and the UK manufacturer/importer (UK MDR 2002, as amended)
- Required UKCA marking; CE marking continues to be accepted for many devices — check current MHRA guidance
- Required UK Responsible Person established in the UK for a foreign manufacturer
- Required ISO 13485 certificate and technical documentation available to the MHRA on request
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Power tools & machinery
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
3 required 2 conditional- Required UL 62841-1 (or UL 62841-3-xx for the type) test report from an NRTL
- Required FCC Part 15 Subpart B for tools with electronic speed control or a charger
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (lead in cords, DEHP in grips)
- If applies EPA exhaust emission certification, 40 CFR 1054/1060, for petrol engines
- If applies OSHA-referenced guarding and instruction requirements are the importer's duty — document them
European Union
4 required 2 conditional- Required Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC now; Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 applies from 20 Jan 2027
- Required CE marking + EU Declaration of Conformity + technical file for the machinery
- Required EMC Directive 2014/30/EU and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU where applicable
- If applies Noise Directive 2000/14/EC — noise marking for outdoor equipment
- If applies Stage V emission Regulation (EU) 2016/1628 for non-road engines
- Required EN 62841 series harmonised standard test report
United Kingdom
3 required 1 conditional- Required Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 — UKCA marking + declaration of conformity
- Required Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 and Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016
- If applies Noise Emission in the Environment by Equipment for use Outdoors Regulations 2001
- Required BS EN 62841 test report as the designated standard
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Batteries & energy storage
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
5 required 1 conditional- Required UN 38.3 test summary for lithium cells and packs (required for transport, 49 CFR 173.185)
- Required UL 1642 (cells), UL 2054 (packs), UL 2056 (power banks) test reports
- Required DOT/PHMSA Class 9 labelling, shipping papers and state-of-charge limits for air freight
- Required FCC Part 15 for power banks and packs with charging electronics
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (lead, nickel)
- If applies State battery EPR registration, e.g. California SB 212 battery stewardship
European Union
4 required 2 conditional- Required Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 — CE marking, labelling and QR code
- If applies Carbon footprint declaration and recycled content documentation per the phase-in timetable
- Required Supply-chain due diligence policy for cobalt, natural graphite, lithium and nickel
- If applies Removability and replaceability rules for batteries in appliances (from 2027)
- Required UN 38.3 test summary plus ADR/IMDG transport documentation
- Required Producer registration for battery EPR in each member state you sell in
United Kingdom
3 required 1 conditional- Required UKCA marking under the Batteries and Accumulators (Placing on the Market) Regulations 2008
- Required Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009 — UK producer obligations
- Required UN 38.3 test summary and UK transport documentation
- If applies UK REACH screening; CE marking continues to be accepted for most GB goods — check OPSS guidance
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Childcare & baby products
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
5 required 1 conditional- Required CPSIA third-party testing at a CPSC-accepted lab + Children's Product Certificate (CPC)
- Required 16 CFR 1225 (carriages and strollers) / 16 CFR 1231 (high chairs) — the standard for your type
- Required 16 CFR 1219 and 1220 mandatory crib standards for cribs and bassinets
- If applies 16 CFR 1223 play yards / 16 CFR 1224 portable bed rails / 16 CFR 1236 booster seats
- Required Permanent tracking label on product and packaging (CPSIA section 103)
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (phthalates, lead, TDCPP in foam)
European Union
3 required 2 conditional- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 general safety duties, EU responsible person and warnings
- Required EN 1888 (wheeled child conveyances) / EN 716 (cots) / EN 14988 (high chairs) test reports
- Required REACH Annex XVII phthalate limits in plastics and EN 71-3 migration for mouth-contact parts
- If applies CE marking only where a specific directive applies (toys, EMC, PPE) — GPSR alone does not require it
- If applies Textile labelling Regulation (EU) 1007/2011 for fabric parts
United Kingdom
3 required 1 conditional- Required General Product Safety Regulations 2005 — UK responsible person, traceability, warnings
- Required Designated standards BS EN 1888 (strollers) and BS EN 716 (cots)
- Required Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 for upholstered parts
- If applies Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 for items classified as toys
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Packaging & printing
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
4 required 1 conditional- Required FDA food-contact compliance, 21 CFR 174-190, for packaging that touches food
- Required Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (15 U.S.C. 1451) — net contents and identity on consumer packaging
- Required Toxics in Packaging state laws — heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, Cr VI) limits
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment for inks, coatings and adhesives
- If applies State packaging EPR producer registration (California SB 54, Oregon, Maine, Colorado, Minnesota)
European Union
4 required 1 conditional- Required Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2025/40 — applies from 12 August 2026
- Required PPWR recyclability, packaging minimisation and recycled content obligations
- Required PPWR harmonised labelling with material and sorting information
- If applies Food-contact rules: Regulation (EC) 1935/2004 and plastics Regulation (EU) 10/2011
- Required National EPR registration, e.g. Germany LUCID / Zentrale Stelle, France CITEO
United Kingdom
2 required 2 conditional- Required Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007 + packaging EPR fees
- Required Plastic Packaging Tax — packaging with under 30% recycled plastic, since 1 April 2022
- If applies Retained food-contact rules for food packaging (1935/2004 and 10/2011 as retained)
- If applies UK recycling labelling requirements — confirm the current rules with your UK importer
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Stationery & art materials
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
2 required 3 conditional- Required LHAMA — 16 CFR 1500.14(b)(8) chronic hazard labelling based on ASTM D-4236 toxicological review
- If applies CPSIA testing and CPC for art materials and stationery marketed to children under 12
- If applies ASTM F963-23 if the item is a toy-like novelty (e.g. character erasers, squishy pens)
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (lead in inks and coatings, phthalates in erasers)
- If applies FCC Part 15 for electronic items such as calculators and electronic pens
European Union
3 required 2 conditional- Required CLP Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 — hazard classification and labelling for glues, markers, correction fluids
- Required REACH — SVHC screening in inks, solvents and soft plastics; phthalates in erasers
- If applies EN 71-3 migration testing for art materials likely to be mouthed by children
- If applies Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC if the item qualifies as a toy (age 0-14)
- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person and traceability
United Kingdom
3 required 1 conditional- Required UK CLP Regulation — hazard classification and labelling for chemical-containing stationery
- Required General Product Safety Regulations 2005 — UK responsible person and traceability
- If applies Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 for children's novelty stationery
- Required UK REACH screening for restricted substances in inks and plastics
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Bags, luggage & leather goods
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
2 required 3 conditional- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (chromium VI in leather, lead in hardware, DEHP)
- Required FTC Leather Guides, 16 CFR 24 — "genuine leather" and coated-leather claims must match the material
- If applies CPSIA testing, CPC and tracking label for children's bags and backpacks
- If applies Lacey Act declaration for wildlife-derived leather (snakeskin, crocodile, python)
- If applies Flammable Fabrics Act, 16 CFR 1610, for textile linings and shells
European Union
4 required 1 conditional- Required REACH Annex XVII entry 47(3) — chromium VI in leather articles in skin contact, max 3 mg/kg
- Required REACH Annex XVII entry 72 — CMR substances in textile components and accessories
- If applies EU Deforestation Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 due diligence for bovine leather
- Required GPSR (EU) 2023/988 — EU responsible person and traceability
- Required Azo dye and formaldehyde limits under REACH for dyes and finishes
United Kingdom
2 required 2 conditional- Required UK REACH — chromium VI limit in leather in skin contact and restricted azo dyes
- Required General Product Safety Regulations 2005 — UK responsible person and traceability
- If applies General product safety and labelling duties apply to luggage and bags — no UKCA scheme exists for them
- If applies Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 only for upholstered or filled parts
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
Wireless & connected devices (IoT)
Requirement numbers below are the actual directive, regulation, standard or CFR citation — quote them to your factory.
United States
5 required 1 conditional- Required FCC Part 15 Subpart C (15.247/15.249) or Subpart E (15.407) certification with an FCC ID
- Required FCC accredited testing at a TCB; FCC ID must be printed on the product
- Required California SB 327 and Oregon HB 2395 — reasonable security features for connected devices
- Required FCC Part 15 Subpart B for the unintentional radiator side of the same device
- If applies US Cyber Trust Mark programme if you want the voluntary label (FCC)
- Required California Prop 65 warning assessment (lead in solder, phthalates)
European Union
4 required 1 conditional- Required Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU — CE marking and EU Declaration of Conformity
- Required RED Article 3(3)(d)(e)(f) cybersecurity via the EN 18031 series (in force since 1 August 2025)
- Required EMC Directive 2014/30/EU and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU where applicable
- If applies Cyber Resilience Act (EU) 2024/2847 — main obligations apply from 11 December 2027
- Required RoHS 2011/65/EU, WEEE 2012/19/EU and GPSR (EU) 2023/988 duties
United Kingdom
4 required 0 conditional- Required UKCA marking — Radio Equipment Regulations 2017 (SI 2017/1206)
- Required PSTI Act 2022 and the PSTI Regulations (SI 2023/504) — in force since 29 April 2024
- Required Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016 and Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016
- Required UK WEEE Regulations 2013 producer registration
Ask your factory for these documents
Test reports issued to the factory's own name from a CNAS/CMA-accredited lab; the Declaration of Conformity or certificate for the market above; the standard and directive the report cites; and confirmation that the report covers the exact model and the production version you ordered.
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All 16 categories × 3 markets, in one workbook you can send with your RFQ.
The checks importers ask us for most
LED lighting → United States
UL 1598 (luminaires) or UL 8750 (LED drivers) from an NRTL, FCC Part 15 Subpart B for the driver, the FTC energy label under 16 CFR 305, and a Prop 65 assessment for the cord and housing.
LED lighting → European Union
CE marking under the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and the EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, Ecodesign Regulation (EU) 2019/2020, the energy label under Regulation (EU) 2019/2015, plus RoHS and WEEE registration.
Toys → European Union and United Kingdom
EN 71-1, EN 71-2 and EN 71-3 test reports plus CE marking under the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC; in Britain the same standards under the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 with UKCA marking.
Lithium batteries → all three markets
A UN 38.3 test summary is unavoidable for transport everywhere, with UL 1642/UL 2054 in the US, the Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 in Europe and UK producer obligations under the Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009.
Kitchenware & food contact → European Union
Framework Regulation (EC) 1935/2004, GMP Regulation (EC) 2023/2006, Plastics Regulation (EU) 10/2011 for plastics and the Ceramics Directive 84/500/EEC with lead and cadmium migration limits.
Textiles & apparel → European Union
REACH Annex XVII entry 72 (Regulation (EU) 2018/1513) for 33 CMR substances in clothing and skin-contact textiles, plus fibre labelling under Regulation (EU) 1007/2011 and the GPSR duties.
Regulations referenced on this page are cited from their official texts (EUR-Lex, eCFR, legislation.gov.uk, FDA, FTC, CPSC, EU Commission). Rules change — the entry that applies to your product depends on its design and intended use.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need certification to export from China?
Do I need certification to export from China?
There is no Chinese export certificate that covers product safety for the destination market. What matters is the destination market's law: CE and UKCA in Europe, FCC, UL and CPSIA in the United States. Chinese export customs checks the HS code, the export licence and dangerous-goods rules for items like lithium batteries — it does not check whether your product is CE or FCC compliant. That responsibility sits with the importer or brand owner in the destination country, so the certification must be arranged before the goods ship, not after they arrive.
Who is responsible for compliance — the Chinese factory or the importer?
Who is responsible for compliance — the Chinese factory or the importer?
The importer or brand owner is legally responsible in every market covered on this page. In the EU you must have a responsible person established in the EU named on the product; in the UK a UK responsible person; in the US the importer of record carries the liability. The factory supplies the test data and certificates, but a factory that says "you do not need that" is giving you commercial advice, not legal advice. Always confirm the applicable directive with a testing lab or customs broker.
Is CE marking always required to sell in the EU?
Is CE marking always required to sell in the EU?
No. CE marking is required only where a specific EU directive or regulation covers the product — for example the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU, the EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC or the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230. Many product groups, including general childcare articles, bags and most furniture, are not CE marked at all; they fall under the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 instead, which requires safety, traceability and a responsible person but not CE marking.
What is the difference between CE, UKCA and FCC?
What is the difference between CE, UKCA and FCC?
CE is the EU conformity mark and comes with an EU Declaration of Conformity plus a technical file. UKCA is the GB mark under the equivalent UK regulations; many sectors still accept CE marking on the GB market, so check the current OPSS guidance for your product. FCC is a US regime: Part 15 Subpart B is an EMC requirement for unintentional radiators, while a device that transmits (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) needs FCC certification with an FCC ID and the ID must be printed on the product.
Who pays for testing and certification?
Who pays for testing and certification?
In practice the Chinese factory arranges and pays for the routine tests — EMC, RoHS, REACH, EN 71 — because those reports support every customer it has, and the cost is buried in the unit price. You pay for anything specific to your brand: an FCC ID in your name, a notified body certificate, a CPSIA Children's Product Certificate, or independent re-testing. Always ask for reports issued to the factory's own name and check the lab is accredited (CNAS/CMA in China, or a CPSC-accepted lab for CPSIA work).
How long do certification tests take and what do they cost?
How long do certification tests take and what do they cost?
Indicative ranges from our own projects: an EMC test report takes about 5-10 working days, a RoHS or REACH screening about 5-7 days, a full EN 71 toy package 2-3 weeks, and an FCC ID certification roughly 3-4 weeks. Budget-wise these usually run from a few hundred to a few thousand US dollars depending on the number of models and whether a notified body is involved. Notified body work, such as MDR (EU) 2017/745 for medical devices, is measured in months and tens of thousands of euros. Treat these as planning figures only — always get a written quotation for your exact product.
Is a test report the same thing as a certificate?
Is a test report the same thing as a certificate?
No. A test report is raw data from a laboratory; a certificate is a formal document — a notified body certificate, an FCC ID grant, or the Declaration of Conformity that you as the importer sign. For most EU electrical products the DoC is a self-declaration supported by the test report and the technical file, which is why a factory can send you a "CE certificate" that means very little on its own. Stricter categories — toys, machinery, medical devices — need a third-party certificate from a notified body or an approved body.
What is a Chinese Certificate of Origin and do I need one?
What is a Chinese Certificate of Origin and do I need one?
A Certificate of Origin (CO) is issued by China Customs or the CCPIT and identifies where the goods were made. It is a customs and tariff document, not a product-safety certificate: it can reduce or eliminate duty under a free trade agreement such as RCEP or the ASEAN-China FTA. Your freight forwarder or our team can arrange a CO together with the commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading once the order is ready to ship.
My supplier sent a CE certificate — can I trust it?
My supplier sent a CE certificate — can I trust it?
Check three things before you trust it. First, the directive or regulation it cites — if it does not name one, it is not a conformity document. Second, the standard and test report behind it, with the laboratory's accreditation number. Third, whether the certificate is issued in your name or as a self-declaration you can support with a technical file. Certificates from commercial "certification service" companies that are not notified bodies carry no legal weight in the EU, and a certificate on one model does not automatically cover the production version you receive.
Is this certification lookup a legal opinion?
Is this certification lookup a legal opinion?
No. It is a planning tool compiled from official texts — EUR-Lex, eCFR, legislation.gov.uk, the FDA, FTC, CPSC and the EU Commission. Regulations change, and the exact requirements for your product depend on its design, materials, battery, radio module and intended user age. Use this list to brief your factory, then confirm the applicable requirements with an accredited testing laboratory, your freight forwarder or a customs broker in the destination market.
Certification checklist (Excel)
All 16 categories × US, EU and UK in one workbook — required versus conditional, with the citation for every entry. Enter your email and the file downloads immediately.
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