Certification is one of the biggest concerns for importers, but a certificate alone does not guarantee compliance. The test report behind it is what really matters. Here is how to read one.

1. Certificate vs test report

  • Certificate — a one-page document confirming the product passed the test
  • Test report — a detailed document showing what was tested, how, and the results

Always ask for both. A certificate without a matching test report is not enough.

2. Key sections of a test report

  • Applicant — the company that requested the test (should be your supplier or you)
  • Manufacturer — the factory that made the product
  • Product name and model — must match exactly what you are buying
  • Test standard — for example EN 60335-1, EN 55014, FCC Part 15
  • Test items — what was tested: safety, EMC, RoHS substances
  • Test results — pass or fail for each item
  • Test lab — name, address and accreditation number
  • Date and report number — for verification

3. Check the model number

This is the most common problem. The report may be for a different model than the one you are buying. If the model number does not match, the report is not valid for your product.

4. Check the test standards

  • CE (EU) — EN 60335 (safety), EN 55014 (EMC), EN 62479 (RF exposure)
  • RoHS — EN 63000 or IEC 62321
  • FCC (US) — FCC Part 15B (unintentional radiators), Part 15C (wireless)
  • ETL / UL — UL 60335 for household appliances

If the standard listed does not apply to your product, ask your supplier why.

5. Verify the test lab

Not all labs are equal. Check that the lab is:

  • Accredited by CNAS (China) or an international body
  • Recognized by the destination market (TUV, SGS, Intertek, BV)
  • Listed on the accreditation body website

6. Watch for common red flags

  • Report is for a different model or brand
  • Report date is more than 3 years old
  • Test lab is not accredited
  • Only a certificate, no test report
  • Standard listed does not apply to the product category
  • Report is a PDF scan with unclear text or missing pages

7. Keep copies for customs and retail

You will need the test report for:

  • Customs clearance in some countries
  • Amazon listing approval (especially for ETL and FCC)
  • Retail buyer compliance reviews
  • Product liability insurance

Store a copy for at least 10 years.

8. What to do if the report is missing

If your supplier cannot provide a test report, you have two options:

  • Ask them to arrange testing with an accredited lab (usually 2–4 weeks, $300–1,500 per standard)
  • Switch to a supplier who already has valid reports

We provide full test reports for all our products and can arrange additional testing for specific markets on request. Contact us for a sample report.