Understanding Test Reports and Certificates
Test reports and certificates are essential documents that verify your products have been evaluated by accredited laboratories to ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards such as GPSR, CE marking (EU), and UKCA marking (UK).
Is Testing Required for All Products?
Not all products require third-party testing. However, certain products, especially those with potential hazards (e.g., electrical items, toys, chemical-containing products), must undergo formal testing to confirm compliance.
Types of Common Test Reports and Certificates
Chemical Testing (REACH, RoHS, CLP)
Mechanical Safety Tests (durability, stability, structural integrity)
Electrical Safety Tests (EMC Directive, Low Voltage Directive)
Flammability Tests (applicable to clothing, furniture, and specific products)
Physical and Mechanical Testing (especially relevant for toys and children's products)
How to Determine Required Tests?
Identify your product category and related directives/regulations.
Refer to relevant harmonized standards or industry-specific regulations.
Consult Euverify’s database or regulatory experts to clarify required tests for your product.
Trusted Testing Laboratories
When obtaining test reports, select accredited laboratories, such as:
SGS
Bureau Veritas
Intertek
TÜV Rheinland
Eurofins
Certificates provided by these accredited laboratories are widely trusted and accepted by regulatory authorities.
Can You Trust Factory-Provided Certificates?
Certificates from factories can sometimes be acceptable if:
The factory's certificates come from accredited third-party laboratories.
The reports are recent, detailed, and relevant to your specific product model.
They clearly identify the tested product batch or series.
Always verify accreditation details and test authenticity independently.
What Documents Should You Request from Your Factory?
Official test reports from accredited labs
Certificates clearly identifying the product, standards tested against, and results
Declaration of conformity referencing test reports and standards
Batch traceability details for verification purposes
Can Manufacturers Upload Existing Test Certificates to Euverify?
Yes, Euverify allows manufacturers and importers to upload existing test certificates. Ensure:
The certificate clearly matches your product (model number, batch, product details).
The testing was conducted by a reputable, accredited lab.
The certificate covers all necessary regulatory requirements for your intended market (EU, UK).
Can You Perform Your Own Tests?
Self-testing is permissible for certain low-risk products (like simple household items), provided you:
Clearly document your testing methods and results.
Ensure the testing adequately addresses all relevant regulatory requirements.
However, higher-risk products (e.g., electrical equipment, children’s toys, chemical products) generally require third-party testing by accredited laboratories.