Who is responsible for compliance?

The manufacturer is primarily responsible for product compliance, but the importer takes on direct legal responsibility when bringing goods from outside the European Union into the EU market.

Manufacturer Responsibilities:

• Design and Testing: Build a safe product and run risk assessments.
• Documentation: Create technical files and sign the Declaration of Conformity.
• Marking: Place conformity marks, such as the CE label, on the product.

Importer Responsibilities:

• Verification: Check that the foreign manufacturer completed all required tests and paperwork.
• Timing: Complete these checks before selling or placing the product on the market.
• Authority Contact: Act as the local responsible party if market authorities have safety questions.

When the Importer Becomes the Manufacturer:

• Rebranding: Putting your own company name, logo, or trademark on the item.
• Modifying: Changing the product in a way that affects safety or compliance.
• Result: You must take over full manufacturer duties and legal liability.