How to make a saber certificate?
Below is a clear, step-by-step guide. An important prerequisite: As of January 1, 2025, all goods exported to Saudi Arabia must obtain certificates through the SABER system before arrival. Post-arrival applications are no longer accepted.
Step 1: Understand SABER Certification
SABER is an online system operated by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). All regulated products exported to Saudi Arabia must obtain two core conformity certificates via SABER. Essentially, SABER certification is the process of applying for these two certificates.
- Product Conformity Certificate (PCoC) – The “identity card” for product access, proving compliance with Saudi technical regulations. Valid for one year. Applied for jointly by the exporter and the Saudi importer.
- Shipment Conformity Certificate (SCoC) – The “customs clearance pass” for each shipment, confirming that the batch matches the information on the PC certificate. Valid for a single shipment only – must be applied for separately for each shipment by the Saudi importer.
Step 2: Determine Product Category and Certification Route
Go to the official SABER website and search using the product’s Harmonized System Code (HS Code) to identify the required certification route. Common routes include:
- Supplier Conformity Declaration (SCoD): For low-risk products. No PC certificate required; you can apply directly for an SC certificate.
- COC Certificate / QM Certificate: For the majority of regulated products. Follow the standard process to apply for both PC and SC certificates.
- Other special routes (IECEE / GCTS / SQM): For high-risk or specific products. Complete required pre-certifications (e.g., IECEE, GCC) first, then apply for PC/SC certificates.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Document preparation requires cooperation between the exporter and the Saudi importer.
Documents to be prepared by the Exporter (Supplier)
- Technical documents
- Product test report (issued by an SASO‑accredited laboratory)
- Product photos (including label and logo)
- Product manual / technical specification sheet
- Company documents
- Business license
- Quality management system certificate (e.g., ISO 9001, if available)
- Exporter declaration
- Product‑specific documents
- Energy efficiency certificate, G‑Mark certificate, etc. (if applicable)
Documents to be prepared by the Saudi Importer (Buyer)
- SABER system account and password
- Commercial Registration (CR) certificate
Step 4: Apply for PC and SC Certificates
The certification process consists of two steps:
1. Apply for the PC Certificate (Product Conformity Certificate):
The Saudi importer uses their SABER account to submit product information and documents, selects a certification body for review, and pays the fees. Once approved, the PC certificate (valid for 1 year) is issued online.
Note: The PC certificate is linked to the Saudi importer named in the application. If you change importers, you must reapply for a new PC certificate.
2. Apply for the SC Certificate (Shipment Conformity Certificate):
After shipment, the Saudi importer submits an SC application in the SABER system, links it to the valid PC certificate, uploads the commercial invoice, packing list, etc., and pays the fees. The SC certificate is usually issued within 1‑2 working days.
Tip: PC certificate review may take 5‑10 working days. Plan your timeline accordingly.
Step 5: Estimate Total Costs
The main cost components of SABER certification:
| Cost Type | Description | Reference Amount |
|---|---|---|
| PC certificate official fee | Fixed fee | 575 SAR (~150 USD) , collected by SABER system |
| SC certificate official fee | Fixed fee | 402.5 SAR (~100 USD) , collected by SABER system |
| Product testing fee | Variable cost | ~500 – 7,000+ USD, mainly depends on product type and complexity |
| Service fee (agent) | Optional | ~100 – 250 USD , if you hire a third‑party agency |
| Factory inspection fee | Only for high‑risk products | ~500 – 1000 USD, for on‑site audits |
Step 6: Understand Processing Times
Estimated timeframes for each stage:
- PC certificate (basic review): about 5‑10 working days – for products with clear standards and complete documents
- PC certificate (including product testing): about 2‑4 weeks – testing is the main time‑consuming part
- PC certificate (high‑risk or requiring factory inspection): may take 15 working days or longer
- SC certificate: usually only 1‑3 working days after documents are complete
Important 2026 Updates
- Pre‑arrival applications are mandatory: All certificates must be applied for and issued before the goods arrive at a Saudi port. Failure to do so will result in customs rejection, and you may incur high demurrage charges or fines.
- New Ministry of Commerce (MOCI) approval requirement: As of April 17, 2025, some products require additional approval from the Saudi Ministry of Commerce (MOCI) when applying for a PC certificate. Affected products include: toilet paper and other paper products, baby diapers, ceramic tiles, car batteries, etc.
- Labeling requirements: Product labels, instructions, and safety warnings must be in Arabic or Arabic/English bilingual.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: I am a Chinese exporter. Can I register and apply on the SABER system myself?
A: No. The account holder and the applicant for certificates in SABER must be the Saudi local importer or their authorized representative in Saudi Arabia. The exporter’s core responsibility is to provide the complete technical product documentation.
Q: What if my Saudi buyer is uncooperative or does not have a SABER account?
A: This is a common issue. First, try to communicate with your partner. If they do not have an account, you can help suggest or assist them in registering. If they are unwilling to cooperate, you may need to find another capable Saudi importer or commission a professional certification agency to help source a partner.
Q: What is the “Supplier Declaration of Conformity” (SDOC) route?
A: SDOC applies to certain low‑risk products. Under this route, no PC certificate is required. The exporter can issue a self‑declaration in the SABER system and then apply directly for an SC certificate. Check your product’s HS Code on the SABER website to see if it qualifies.
Q: Does my product require any other certifications before applying for SABER?
A: Yes, some high‑risk or specific product categories require additional pre‑certifications before applying for the SABER PC certificate. For example, many electronic products need an IECEE certificate (via a CB report); some household appliances need a GCC certificate; products like cement require a Saudi Quality Mark (QM) certificate. Always check via your HS Code on the SABER portal.
