CE Certificate of Conformity: Validity & Risks Explained

What is a ce certificate of Conformity?

A CE Certificate of Conformity is typically issued by a third party to confirm that a specific product complies with one or more directives, regulations, and harmonized standards. The certificate indicates that the issuing company has tested and reviewed relevant documents as the basis for issuing the certificate.

Some companies issue certificates based only on reviewing existing test reports and declarations of conformity. Others issue certificates without any audits, resulting in certificates that lack actual compliance evidence.

Note:These documents are not mandatory and do not replace the Declaration of Conformity (DoC), test reports, technical documentation, or correct labeling.

Cost of a CE Certificate

1. The fee for a company to review test reports and declarations of conformity is approximately \$200.

2. This does not include laboratory testing fees. Reviewing technical documentation may incur additional costs.

3. Testing fees range from \$698 to \$3,000.

Purpose of the Document

1. The CE Certificate of Conformity is intended to confirm that your product and its documentation comply with relevant regulations.

2. It does not replace the Declaration of Conformity, technical files, or valid laboratory test reports.

3. Obtaining a third-party certificate is not mandatory, but it is important to work with qualified partners for testing and document review.

Summary of the CE Certificate

Certificates usually include the following information:

1. Registration/Report Number:Used to verify the certificate’s validity.

2. Issuing Company:Including name, contact details, and address.

3. Certificate Holder:Usually the manufacturer or importer.

4. Product Information:Product name, model, SKU, etc.

5. Regulations/Directives/Standards:Summary of applicable regulations and standards, for example:

EN 71-1

EN 71-2

EN 50581

EN 50065

EN 13637

6. Statement:Explains the basis on which the certificate was issued.

7. Signature and Stamp:Usually required.

Which Products Need a CE Certificate of Conformity?

In theory, any product requiring a CE mark can obtain a CE Certificate of Conformity, such as:

1. Consumer electronics

2. Electrical equipment

3. Machinery

4. Toys

5. Children’s recreational products

6. Sunglasses

7. Personal protective equipment

8. Medical devices

Note: These products do not actually require a voluntary certificate. Some may require an EC type examination certificate, which is a different document.

How to Obtain a CE Certificate of Conformity?

1. You can apply through third-party organizations (e.g., China’s JJR Labs, SGS, TUV).

2. Certificates are often provided directly by suppliers, but many of these are invalid and do not serve as proof of compliance.

Fake Certificates of Conformity

1. Many fake certificates exist on the market without audits or testing.

2. These certificates lack supporting test reports, technical files, and declarations of conformity.

3. They are mistakenly accepted by uninformed manufacturers and importers.

How to Verify if a CE Certificate is Valid?

Check the certificate number or contact the issuing company for confirmation.

How to Check if a Certificate is Fake?

1. Verify the certificate number in databases.

2. Email the issuing company to request verification.

3. If no verification method is provided, the certificate can be considered invalid.

Why Do Suppliers Provide Invalid or Fake Certificates?

1. Inexperienced importers are easily deceived.

2. Fake certificates look official and legitimate, misleading buyers.

3. Some companies try to avoid laboratory testing and certification processes to save time and money.

Risks of Selling Products Based on Invalid CoCs

1. Products may pose safety risks, leading to recalls and fines.

2. Market surveillance authorities may reject such certificates as valid proof of compliance.

3. This poses risks to both consumers and businesses.

Difference Between Certificate of Conformity (CoC) and Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

The Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is a legal document issued by the importer or manufacturer declaring the product is placed on the market and meets requirements. It is mandatory for products requiring the CE mark. The Certificate of Conformity is issued by a third party to prove compliance but is not mandatory.

Summary:

Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

1. Issued by third-party organizations

2. Proves product compliance with standards

3. Voluntary document

Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

1. Issued by manufacturer or importer

2. Declares product conformity

3. Mandatory legal document