What Tests and Certifications Are Required for Exporting Toys Abroad?
Toys are a popular category in global trade, ranging from plush toys to blind box figures, from stress-relief toys to educational building blocks, beloved by consumers worldwide. However, since toys are directly related to children's safety, countries impose extremely strict testing and certification requirements for imported toys. Compliant testing and certification are not only the "passport" to enter international markets but also key to ensuring product quality and enhancing brand trust.
As Ningbo Huabiao Testing Co., Ltd., a CPSC- and EN71-recognized third-party testing agency, we have compiled the certification requirements for exporting toys to major markets to help you achieve compliance effortlessly and succeed globally!
Testing and Certification Requirements for Toy Exports in Major Markets
Different countries/regions have varying safety standards and certification requirements for toys. Below are the core testing and certifications for major markets:
1. U.S. Market: CPC Certification
Applicable Regulations:
CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act): Limits lead (≤90ppm), phthalates (≤0.1%), and other hazardous substances.
ASTM F963: U.S. toy safety standard, covering physical, mechanical, chemical, and flammability tests.
16 CFR Part 1501: Prohibits small parts in toys for children under 3 to prevent choking hazards.
Certification Requirements: Testing by a CPSC-recognized third-party lab is required, along with a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) for toys intended for children aged 12 and under (e.g., blind boxes, stress-relief toys).
Notes: Amazon U.S. requires CPC certificates and test reports. Packaging materials (e.g., plastic bags) must also comply with safety standards.
2. EU Market: CE Certification
Applicable Regulations:
EN71: EU toy safety standard, including:
EN71-1: Physical and mechanical properties (e.g., small parts, sharp edges).
EN71-2: Flammability.
EN71-3: Migration of hazardous chemicals (e.g., heavy metals).
REACH: Restricts chemical substances (e.g., phthalates).
Directive 2009/48/EC: Toy Safety Directive.
Certification Requirements: EN71 testing, CE marking, and preparation of a Technical File and Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
Notes: Toys for different age groups (e.g., 0-3 years) have stricter testing requirements. Warning labels must be included.
3. Canadian Market: CCPSA Certification
Applicable Regulations:
CCPSA (Canada Consumer Product Safety Act): Similar to CPSIA, restricting lead, mercury, and other hazardous substances.
SOR/2011-17: Toy safety regulations covering mechanical, chemical, and electrical safety.
Certification Requirements: Testing by an accredited lab is required, with test reports provided to importers or retailers.
Notes: Packaging must include bilingual (English/French) warning labels.
4. Australia/New Zealand Market: AS/NZS ISO 8124
Applicable Regulations:
AS/NZS ISO 8124: Similar to EN71, covering physical, chemical, and flammability properties.
Consumer Goods (Toys) Standard 2020: Restricts hazardous substances.
Certification Requirements: Testing by an accredited lab, with compliance proof required. Some toys need mandatory safety marks.
Notes: Toys for children aged 0-3 require special attention to small parts and battery safety.
5. Chinese Market (Domestic Requirements Before Export): CCC Certification
Applicable Regulations:
GB 6675: China’s toy safety standard, similar to EN71, covering mechanical, chemical, and electrical safety.
Certification Requirements: Some toys require China Compulsory Certification (CCC) through designated testing agencies.
Notes: Export toys must meet target market standards, but domestic production may require CCC certification.
Why Choose a Third-Party Testing Agency?
Toy testing and certification must be conducted by an authorized third-party lab. Self-testing or reports from non-accredited agencies are invalid. Choosing a CPSC- and EN71-recognized third-party testing agency (like Ningbo Huabiao) offers the following advantages:
Authority: Test reports are globally accepted, meeting platform requirements (e.g., Amazon, Walmart).
Expertise: Familiarity with international regulations avoids retesting due to misinterpretations.
Efficiency: Fast report issuance (7-10 days) accelerates time-to-market.
Ningbo Huabiao: Your Global Certification Expert
As a third-party testing agency with CMA, CNAS, and CPSC accreditations, Ningbo Huabiao provides one-stop services for your toy exports:
Multi-Standard Testing: Covers CPC, CE, CCPSA, AS/NZS ISO 8124, etc., for various materials (plastic, plush, electronic toys).
Efficient Process: Testing completed in 3-5 days with just 3 samples.
End-to-End Support: Guidance from sample preparation to certificate upload.
**Assistance with CPC or CE documentation for platform or retailer submission.
Partner with Ningbo Huabiao to Succeed Globally
Compliant certification is the key to successfully exporting toys. With authoritative credentials, extensive experience, and efficient services, GIG Huabiao Testing helps your toys pass CPC, CE, and other certifications to enter the U.S., EU, and other markets quickly. Contact us now for a free consultation and customized testing plan—let your products conquer global consumers with safety and quality!
