To get Saudi SASO certification done right, preparing documents and understanding validity periods are two core tasks—and also the most error-prone ones. Many businesses think document preparation is just following a checklist from agents, but details often cause delays of a week or two. Today, combined with the latest FASAH platform practices, we’ll break down these two aspects thoroughly, with insider details you rarely find elsewhere.
Document preparation isn’t a one-time task, but a meticulous process throughout the certification lifecycle. We split it into four phases, each with distinct priorities:
Phase 1: Pre-Evaluation & Pre-Audit Documents
Before requesting quotes or sending samples to labs, prepare these first to boost communication efficiency:
·Product Technical Info: Clear product photos, nameplate photos, technical specifications or manuals
·Existing Certification Certificates: If you have CB, CE, GCC certifications, prepare certificates and complete test reports—this is key to determining your certification path and costs
·Key Component List: Especially model and certification info (if any) for core safety components like power supplies, motors, and plugs. Many labs don’t ask upfront, but will require them during later audits
The core of this phase is using documents to help certification bodies quickly judge your product’s risk level and optimal certification plan. The more complete your documents, the more accurate the plan and quote you’ll get.
Phase 2: Core Documents for Product Testing
This is the technical backbone—documents directly determine whether testing can start and pass:
1.Test Samples: 2-3 sealed, complete samples usually required. Note: Samples must be identical to future export bulk goods, including packaging and labels
2.Complete Test Report (if new testing needed): Issued by Saudi-accredited labs, based on the latest Saudi standards. Critical note: Product name and model on the report must match exactly with future certificate applications—no letter discrepancies allowed
3.Technical Construction Files: Including circuit diagrams, PCB layouts, exploded views, Bill of Materials (BOM), etc. Saudi auditors may spot-check these to verify product traceability and consistency
Phase 3: FASAH Platform Registration & PCoC Application Documents
After passing testing, your certification body submits the application via the FASAH platform—ensure you provide:
-Arabic Documents: A common pain point and top delay cause. Product manuals, packaging labels, and warnings must have standardized Arabic translations. Never use Google Translate; hire professionals to verify—format or terminology errors lead to rejection
-Manufacturer & Exporter Info: Company name, address, and other business info registered on FASAH must be accurate, as it relates to legal liability
-Declaration of Conformity: Usually drafted with certification body assistance, stating products comply with relevant Saudi standards
Phase 4: Documents for Per-Shipment SCoC Application
The final step before shipment—documents are relatively simple but require precision:
-Commercial Invoice for the Shipment: Amount, quantity, and product name must match actual goods
-Packing List: Clearly showing number of cases, quantity per case, gross/net weight, and volume
-Issued PCoC Certificate Number: Automatically linked in the system
Validity Periods for Saudi SASO Mandatory Certification：
Many only focus on certificate validity, but the logic has three layers:
Layer 1: Core Certificate Validity (Customs Clearance Basis)
-Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): The "birth certificate" for product models, generally valid for 1 year. However, for high-risk or key regulated products (e.g., some children’s products, building materials), Saudi authorities may shorten validity to 6 months. This isn’t a fixed new rule, but dynamic risk-based regulation—your authorized body provides the exact period during application
-Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): The "visa" for single shipments, with a short validity (15 days to 3 months from issuance), tied to the expected arrival date—expires automatically, so never apply too early
Layer 2: Supporting Document Validity (Certificate Foundation)
Your PCoC is valid only if the underlying product test report is valid. Lab reports have no absolute validity, but Saudi authorities generally accept reports issued within 2-3 years. If product standards update or reports exceed this timeframe, PCoC may be invalidated even if within its term, requiring updated testing—an often-overlooked hidden cost
Layer 3: Business Info Validity (Platform Operation Basis)
Update company registration info (e.g., business license, contacts) on FASAH promptly if changed; otherwise, new certificate applications will be affected. Think of it as your "account qualification" that needs ongoing maintenance
Pro Tips Beyond Basic Checklists
1.Build a Digital Document Archive: Scan all technical files, certificates, and reports into clear PDFs, named by product model and date. FASAH applications are fully electronic—quick access boosts efficiency
2.Arabic Document 3-Step Audit: ① Professional translation company draft; ② Saudi local customers/partners review readability from a user perspective; ③ Certification body final compliance check. This eliminates issues
3.Use "Series Certification" for Validity Management: For multiple series models, apply for series certificates to cut testing costs and unify PCoC validity across models, avoiding management chaos from staggered expiration dates
4.Set Certificate Validity Reminders: Initiate evaluation 2-3 months before PCoC expiration: Have product standards updated? Is the test report still accepted? Plan renewal or partial retesting accordingly—never wait until the last month
In the 2025 FASAH platform era, SASO certification document preparation hinges on accuracy, compliance, and foresight—not quantity. Mastering the logic of documents and validity turns a hassle into a stable, controllable part of your supply chain. For professional certification consulting, contact BLUEASIA at +86 13534225140.
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