Why do I need lab test reports?

Third-party lab testing is often mandatory when importing or manufacturing products – or at least necessary for the sake of demonstrating that your product is safe and compliant.

The purpose of the lab test is to determine if the product is safe and compliant. For example, a lab test can determine if a certain product contains harmful and restricted chemicals – such as phthalates. Lab testing can also cover mechanical safety, such as sharp points and small parts.

Ultimately, it’s also in your interest as an importer, manufacturer, or brand to ensure that your products are verified to be fully compliant and safe.

Do you offer testing in house or through partners?

We do not operate our own testing facilities. Instead, we work with labs located in Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Which countries/regions are covered by your testing partners?

Our testing partners offer lab testing services for importers and manufacturers selling the United States, European Union, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Where are the testing labs located?

Our lab testing partners operate testing facilities in the United States, Europe, and China. Most of our customers use test lab facilities in the country or region where their products are manufactured.

How do we submit samples to the lab?

The testing company will provide the testing lab address once you have confirmed the quotation. You may also need to label your sample parcel in order to make sure that the samples can be identified upon arrival.

What kind of support do you provide?

We can answer your questions about the following:

• When should we book lab testing?
• What kind of information do we need to provide?
• How do we submit product samples?
• How do we deal with failed test results?

Further, we can also review your lab test quotations, and provide guidance in case the test fails.

How do I know which standards, regulations, and corresponding tests apply?

Our lab testing partners can provide their assessment when you request a quotation. For example, they can provide a list of substance tests and safety standards that they deem applicable to your product. Keep in mind that this list is provided without any guarantees. Further, you can also communicate your testing requirements when you request a quote.

At what stage do I need a lab test report?

You need to verify that your product is fully compliant and safe before you start importing and selling a product. Further, the lab test can either take place before or after mass production – or both. The specific details depend on the regulatory requirements, and the product.

Keep in mind that you can only issue certain product certificates and other compliance documents once you have obtained a lab test report.

Is the lab testing cost included in the subscription?

No, the Compliance Gate Platform subscription fee does not include lab testing costs. Lab testing fees are charged directly by our lab testing partners.

How much does lab testing cost?

There is no standard price for lab testing. The cost depends on the following factors:

1. The applicable standards and regulations for the product

2. The number of unique materials that must be tested

3. The number of colours

4. Product risk factors (e.g. sharp points, magnets, batteries)

For example, a t-shirt in a single colour may cost a few hundred dollars to test. However, an electric toy which includes magnets, batteries, chargers, and consists of multiple materials requires multiple tests which is therefore more expensive.

In short, the testing companies calculate the testing costs based on the number of tests they must do. The more materials, components, chemicals, and risk factors that must be tested for – the more costly it will be.

Can you estimate testing costs?

No, we cannot predict or estimate testing charges beforehand. What we can do is to help you create a Compliance Requirements List and then get in touch with one or more testing companies to receive quotations. We can also review the quote and then assess if it is in line with expectations.

What can happen if I don’t have a lab test report?

Without a lab test report you cannot demonstrate that your product is safe and compliant – which is a requirement for many product categories. The customs or national market surveillance authorities may contact you at some point to verify that your products are lab tested.

Further, Amazon and other marketplaces can remove your product listings in case you cannot submit valid lab test reports.