Guide to CPC Certification and U.S. Export Requirements for Children’s Products

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The U.S. is the world’s largest market for children’s products, with stringent safety regulations enforced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) is a mandatory requirement for children’s products sold in the U.S. This guide explains CPC certification, which products require flammability testing, and the certifications needed for exporting children’s products to the U.S.

What is CPC Certification?

The CPC (Children’s Product Certificate) is a self-declaration document required by the CPSC for children’s products (intended for ages 12 and under, or 14 for some standards) sold in the U.S. It confirms compliance with safety regulations, including the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) and ASTM F963 (Toy Safety Standard).

Testing Scope:

• Physical/Mechanical: No choking hazards, sharp edges, or small parts.

• Flammability: Resistance to fire hazards.

• Chemical: Limits on lead (≤100 ppm), phthalates (≤0.1%), and heavy metals.

• Electrical: Safety for battery-operated toys.

CPC Requirements:

• Product and importer details.

• Manufacturing date and address.

• Applicable standards (e.g., CPSIA, ASTM F963).

• CPSC-accredited laboratory info, test dates, and location.

The CPC is issued by the manufacturer or importer based on third-party test reports and must accompany shipments.

Which Products Require Flammability Testing?

Flammability testing is required for products with fire-risk materials (per 16 CFR 1610, 1615, 1616, and ASTM F963-17):

• Textile Toys: Plush toys, costumes, or stuffed animals.

• Sleepwear/Bedding: Children’s sleepwear (sizes 0–14) and bedding.

• Other Materials: Toys with paper, foam, or flammable plastics.

Exemptions: Non-flammable materials (e.g., metal, silicone) may not require testing, subject to risk assessment.

Certifications for Exporting Children’s Products to the U.S.

Exporting children’s products to the U.S. requires compliance with the following:

1. CPC Certification

• Verifies compliance with CPSIA, ASTM F963, and other standards.

• Applies to toys, teething products, cribs, and clothing for children ≤12 (or ≤14 for some standards).

• Requires third-party testing for lead, phthalates, and safety hazards.

2. CPSIA Compliance

• Lead: ≤100 ppm in accessible parts (16 CFR 1307).

• Phthalates: ≤0.1% for eight types (16 CFR 1307).

• Tracking Labels: Permanent labels with batch and date info (15 U.S.C. 2063).

3. ASTM F963 Compliance

• Mandatory for toys (≤14 years), covering mechanical, flammability, and chemical safety.

4. Product-Specific Certifications

• Jewelry: Lead (≤100 ppm) and cadmium (≤300 ppm in some states).

• Childcare Articles: Phthalate limits and FDA food contact standards (e.g., pacifiers).

• Textiles/Apparel: Flammability (16 CFR 1610) and tracking labels.

• Battery-Operated Toys: Electrical safety (e.g., UL 62115).

5. Amazon Requirements

• CPC and test reports must be uploaded to Seller Central to comply with Amazon’s Children’s Product Policy.

How to Obtain CPC Certification

1. Consult a Lab: Contact a CPSC-accredited lab (e.g., Huabiao Testing) for guidance.

2. Submit Samples: Provide 2–3 samples and product details.

3. Test: Verify compliance with CPSIA, ASTM F963, and other standards.

4. Draft CPC: Use test reports to create the CPC with all required info.

5. Distribute/Retain: Provide CPC to retailers and retain for 5 years.

Why Choose Huabiao Testing?

Huabiao(GIG) Testing offers comprehensive CPC certification solutions with an experienced team and advanced equipment. Accredited with CMA/CNAS, our accurate and reliable data and internationally recognized reports help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and succeed globally.