SASO certification: what is it?

Exporting goods to Saudi Arabia requires the necessary certification of Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO). SASO seeks to guarantee that every goods imported into the nation follow Saudi Arabian technical guidelines, standards, and quality criteria. Maintaining consumer safety and preserving the quality of imported goods depend on this certifying.

Products failing SASO's criteria run the danger of being turned away at customs, causing delays and extra expenses. For manufacturers and exporters aiming at the Saudi market, then, getting the SASO accreditation is absolutely vital.

Why is SASO Certification significant?

Legal requirements for particular goods arriving Saudi Arabia call for SASO certification. Goods cannotclear customs without it.

Ensures items satisfy safety and quality criteria thereby safeguarding consumers from dangerous products.

Easy access into the Saudi Arabian market, a major Middle Eastern trading hub, is made possible by this.

Brand reputation shows a dedication to high standards, therefore increasing confidence among clients and partners.

Procedures for Getting SASO Certified

First step: ascertain standards and scope of products

Finding out whether your product complies with SASO's technical standards comes first. Among other items, electrical appliances, building materials, toys, and textiles, SASO routinely updates its list of regulated products. Every product category has particular technical requirements that one has to follow.

Step 2: Saber Platform Registration

Designed by SASO, the Saber platform is an online tool meant to expedite certification. Products must be registered by manufacturers and importers on Saber to start the certification process. Important specifics needed consist:

Product summaries

Harmonised System codes, or HS codes

Manufacturer's material data

Third step: do product tests.

The SASO certification process revolves mostly on testing. Products have to be examined to satisfy the pertinent technical criteria using labs recognized by SASO. Usually, testing comprises:

Safety Inspections

Reviews of performance

Chemical composition studies, if relevant

Successful testing results in a test report that is needed for the following stage.

Fourth step: get the conformational Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC).

Conformity's Product Certificate (PCoC) certifies that your good meets SASO's guidelines. You must send in: to get the PCoC:

The test guide

Product requirements

Technical guides

Issued via the Saber platform, the PCoC is good for one year.

Fifth step: obtain the Conformity Shipment Certificate (SCoC).

Every shipment arriving Saudi Arabia calls for a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC). The SCoC makes sure the goods in the shipment match the information given in the PCoC. Before the goods reaches customs, the importer has to apply for the SCoC using the Saber platform.

Important Products Calling for SASO Certification

1. Electrical Tools

Products like washing machines, air conditioners, and refrigerators have to satisfy particular energy efficiency and safety criteria.

2. Accessories

Toys have to follow SASO's safety rules including assessments of choking hazards and chemical makeup.

3. Constructive Materials

Building materials like steel and cement have to satisfy environmental safety criteria as well as durability.

4. Clothing and Textiles

Textile items have to follow flammability, labeling, and material quality criteria.

5. Parts for Automobile Maintenance

To guarantee road safety, automotive parts have to satisfy performance and safety standards.

Typical SASO Certification Process Challenges

Complex Technical Standards: Especially for new exporters, knowing the exact needs for every product category might be difficult.

Inaccurate or lacking documentation could cause delays or denial of the certification.

Restricted availability of SASO-approved labs could slow down the testing process.

Regular modifications to SASO's technical rules call for companies to be informed and adjust properly.

Advice for an Easy SASO Certification Process

Work with a certification expert.

Using an approved SASO agent or a certification consultant will help to streamline the procedure. These professionals can offer direction on testing criteria, documentation, and compliance needs.

2. Keep Up Correct Documentation

Verify that all needed records—including product specifications and test reports—are current and accurate.

3. Keep Current on Rules.

To keep updated about changes in technical requirements, routinely visit SASO's website or speak with specialists.

4. use the Saber Platform.

The Saber platform is meant to simplify the certification process. Learn its characteristics to guarantee flawless registration and application handling.

In summary

Any company trying to sell to Saudi Arabia has to first get SASO certified. Understanding the certification procedure, keeping current on laws, and working with professionals can help you to guarantee compliance and provide seamless access into the Saudi market.