A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is a document issued by an authorized body that states a product meets the required standards or specifications of the importing country. While the CE Mark is a type of conformity for Europe, the generic term CoC is most frequently encountered when shipping to the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar) and parts of Africa (Kenya, Nigeria).
Middle East Context (SASO/SABER)
If you are shipping spare parts, tires, or machinery to Saudi Arabia, you will encounter the SABER system (formerly SASO). You cannot clear customs without a CoC.
- Product CoC: This is valid for one year. You register the product type (e.g., Earthmoving Machinery Parts).
- Shipment CoC: For every single shipment, you need a new certificate that links to the valid Product CoC. This system is designed to stop counterfeit and low-quality goods from entering the market.
Inspection is Key
To get a CoC, you usually have to hire a third-party inspection agency like Intertek, SGS, or Bureau Veritas. They will physically inspect the cargo at your U.S. warehouse before it is loaded. They check:
- Is the quantity correct?
- Are the Made in USA markings visible and permanent? (Stickers are often rejected; the origin must be engraved or printed on the part).
- Does the voltage match the destination (e.g., 220V vs 110V)? Once they pass the inspection, they issue the CoC. If you ship without this document, the destination customs will not release the cargo, and you cannot get a retroactive inspection once the goods have left the U.S.
CoC vs. Certificate of Origin
Do not confuse the two. The Certificate of Origin says, “This was made in America.” The Certificate of Conformity says, “This is safe and good quality.” You need both. A U.S.-made machine can still fail a conformity test if it doesn’t meet the specific safety standards of the buyer’s country.