What is a Certificate of Conformity?
The certificate of conformity (CoC) is issued by a third party authorized to do so, usually the manufacturer or an independent laboratory, and certifies that the product meets all the standards or specifications.
A buyer can request a CoC to verify that the product is manufactured according to a specified specification, and has passed all the required tests. It also ensures the product meets technical and safety standards. For certain products such as Bluetooth devices sold in the USA, the CoC may be required by law and country regulations.
When should a buyer request a CoC from a supplier?
A buyer will typically request a CoC for products/components with high-risk or critical status. In some cases, documents may be required to prove the safety of the product or for certification.
A plane manufacturer buys blades to power its engines. The cast blades must be checked with an X-ray to make sure there are no cracks or voids. A defect could lead to an accident that results in death. A CoC is required (where the blade manufacturer certifies that the blades meet specific checklists).
In certain cases, every part must have its own serial number. In some cases, a batch CoC is sufficient.
What information should be included in a certificate?
The following elements should be included in any certificate of conformity:
- Product Identification
- Description of the Product covered by the CoC
- List all the safety standards that the product must meet
- Refer to the related test reports or certificates.
- Identification of the importer or manufacturer
- Please provide the full name, address, and phone number of the domestic or importer who certifies the product.
- Contact details for the person who maintains records of test results
- Please provide the full name, mailing address, email address, and phone number of the person who maintains the test records to support the certification.
- Date and place of manufacture
- Finally, the month, year, city, state, and country should be displayed.
- Please provide the date and location of the test to ensure that the product complies with the safety rules for consumer products cited above.
- Please provide the location and date of the tests or reports on which the certification is based.
- The certificate must be tested by a third-party laboratory.
- Please provide the full name, mailing address, and phone number of the third-party laboratory.
