If you manufacture or import children’s products in the United States, you may have heard of the Children’s Product Certificate (CPC). But what exactly is it, and why is it necessary? In this article, we will explain everything in a very simple way.
What is a CPC?
A CPC is a document that certifies that a children’s product meets the federal safety standards set by the
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC ensures safety for consumers, especially children, by enforcing regulations and standards for kids’ products, such as the CPSIA and ASTM’s toy safety standard F963.
A CPC is required for any product primarily intended for children 12 years or younger.
- Toys and games
- Children’s clothing and accessories
- Cribs and mattresses
- Strollers and car seats
- Children’s furniture
- Baby walkers and jumpers
- Children’s jewelry
- Pacifiers and teethers
Children’s products must be safe and healthy. The Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) confirms that a product is safe for children and does not contain harmful substances or present hazards. The CPC checks for sharp edges and small parts that could lead to suffocation or choking.
Why do you need a CPC?
A CPC is not only important for
children’s safety, but also for legal compliance. If you want to sell or import children’s products in the United States, you must have a valid CPC for each product. Without a CPC, you cannot legally sell or import certain children’s products in the United States. You risk fines, penalties, and product recalls for non-compliance with CPSC requirements. Additionally, a CPC protects you from legal liability in the event of accidents or injuries caused by your product. If a child is harmed by your product, and you do not have a CPC, you may be held responsible for damages. A CPC indicates that all necessary steps were taken to ensure the safety of the product.
A CPC is also required by some online platforms, such as Amazon if you want to list your children’s products on their website. As a seller on Amazon, it is mandatory to provide a CPC for children’s products falling under specific categories such as toys, games, baby products, and children’s clothing. Amazon may also request further documents from you to ensure that your product is compliant with the CPSC standards.
How to get a CPC
Getting a CPC involves several steps that you must follow carefully. Here are the main steps to obtain a CPC:
Identify the applicable safety standards and regulations for your product
You must research which CPSC rules apply to your product based on its type, function, and intended use. You can use the CPSC website or the Regulatory Robot tool to find out which standards and regulations apply to your product.
Test your product at a CPSC-accepted laboratory.
You must hire a third-party testing laboratory that is accredited by the CPSC to conduct the required tests on your product. The product will undergo various tests to assess its physical, mechanical, chemical, and safety properties, including flammability.
Obtain the test reports from the laboratory
The laboratory will issue test reports indicating whether your product meets CPSC standards and regulations.
Create the CPC using the test reports and other information.
You must use the test reports and relevant information to create the CPC for your product’s compliance. You can use a template provided by the CPSC or create your own document following the CPSC guidelines.
Keep records of the CPC and test reports for at least five years.
You must keep copies of the CPC and test reports for each product for at least five years, as required by the CPSC. You must be able to provide these documents upon request by the CPSC or other authorities.
What information should be included in the CPC?
A CPC should include the following information:
- Details such as the product name, model number, or SKU number identify the product covered by the certificate.
- Cite the applicable CPSC safety standard or regulation, including CPSIA or ASTM F963.
- The certificate must indicate the manufacturer or importer’s name, address, and contact details.
- Contact information for the person maintaining records of test results, including the name, address, and contact information of the person who has access to the test reports and other compliance-related documents.
- Date and place where the product was manufactured. This includes the date or dates and the location or locations where the product was manufactured or assembled.
- Date and place where the product was tested. This includes the date or dates and the location or locations where the product was tested by the CPSC-accepted laboratory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a CPC to Sell on Amazon?
Yes, you do. A Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) is a mandatory document for Amazon sellers who offer children’s products. Amazon requires sellers to provide proof of compliance with applicable safety standards. Therefore, you must have a valid CPC for each children’s product you sell on Amazon.
Can My Overseas Supplier Issue a CPC?
No, they cannot. A CPC that is recognized by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States must be issued by a responsible party located in the United States, such as the manufacturer or importer. An overseas supplier outside the United States cannot issue a CPC for the CPSC.
Do I Need to Test My Product in a Laboratory?
Yes, you do.
Laboratory testing is an essential step in obtaining a CPC. Your product must be tested by an accredited third-party testing laboratory to ensure it meets the safety standards set by the CPSC. You cannot get a CPC without laboratory testing.
Conclusion: Children’s Product Certificate – What You Need to Know in 2023
To sell or import children’s products in the US, you need a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) to prove compliance with safety standards. Get your product tested at a CPSC-recognized lab, create the CPC, and keep records. Contact us for help obtaining a CPC.
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