UKCA
What is UKCA?
After the United Kingdom withdrew from the European Union (Brexit), a new product conformity standard was introduced – UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) labeling. This is a replacement for the well-known CE marking, which was used to access the EU market. UKCA confirms that products meet British safety, health and environmental standards.
However, without the UKCA marking, your products will not be able to be legally sold in the UK (England, Wales and Scotland), which may result in fines, confiscation of goods or a ban on their sale.
The most effective way to obtain the UKCA marking is to adapt existing European documentation.
Why is adaptation of CE documentation a rational approach?
As European standards are still in use in the UK, the best way is to obtain European Certificates of Conformity (CE) and then adapt them to UK requirements. In many cases, this can be done without additional application to the UKCA certification bodies, which greatly simplifies the process.
This approach allows you to:
- Enter the British market faster by using existing European documentation.
- Avoid duplication of certification processes, which saves time and resources.
- Ensure that products comply with both European and British standards, which expands export opportunities.
Important aspects of UKCA labeling:
Transition period:
Until December 31, 2024, most CE-marked products can still be sold in the UK
Differences from CE:
Although UKCA is similar to CE in many ways, it has its own specific features and requirements
Dual labeling:
Some manufacturers may choose to apply both CE and UKCA markings to sell in both markets
Differences for Northern Ireland:
In Northern Ireland, the CE marking is still valid, but the additional UKNI marking can be used
Stages of obtaining the UKCA certificate based on CE:
Analysis of the available CE documentation:
We check whether your products comply with EU directives and whether they can be adapted to UKCA requirements
Adaptation of technical documentation:
We make the necessary changes to the technical documentation
Preparation of a UKCA declaration of conformity
If necessary, applying
To a UK notified body
UKCA labeling:
After successful completion of all stages, you get the right to label your products with the UKCA mark
Why is it important to obtain UKCA?
Failure to obtain the UKCA marking can lead to serious consequences, including
- Prohibition to sell products on the British market.
- High fines for violation of certification requirements.
- Problems with customs control during import.
UKCA labeling is key to the legal sale of products in the UK and demonstrates your professionalism and willingness to cooperate with the British market.
ECDOC is ready to assist you at every stage of the certification process, providing a professional approach and reliable results. Don’t delay – provide your business with access to the UK market with more than 65 million consumers today with the help of our experts.
More information about 👉Certificate (CE) and 👉Declaration of Conformity (CE)