Start with the destination market
Identify where the product will be sold and who will be responsible for compliance. A requirement that applies in one market may not apply in another.
Ask the right questions
Discuss testing, labeling, technical files, declarations, restricted substances, electrical safety, children’s products, food contact, batteries, radio functions, and packaging with a qualified compliance provider where relevant.
Do not rely on a logo alone
A certificate or test report should be checked for the correct product, model, manufacturer, standard, date, laboratory, and destination relevance. Rules can change, so verify current requirements.
Before you begin
Use this guide as a planning framework. Write down your assumptions, open questions, responsible parties, and the next decision before contacting a supplier.
A useful decision checklist
- Does every product need a certification?
- What is the difference between a test report and a certificate?
- Can a sourcing agent provide legal compliance advice?
What to do next
After learning the framework, apply it to one real product and one real destination market; the details should be checked before money or production is committed.
Connect the next decision
Use this page as part of a clearer sourcing plan.
Information on this page is general education, not legal, customs, tax, testing, or professional compliance advice. Requirements depend on the product and destination market and should be checked before you order or sell.