By Paul Milton, CEO of G&M Compliance
China Compulsory Certification (CCC) is a necessary part of tapping the Chinese market for more than 132 product categories, including automotive parts. Manufacturing vehicle components is a complex undertaking, and the rules and regulations for selling in China can be overwhelming. However, a few simple tips—and plenty of advance preparation—can set up a successful certification and new customer base.
When working to certify vehicle parts, DO:
- Make proper arrangements with customs. Correctly shipping products to China is crucial, and it can reduce costly delays and storage feeds. Follow the proper channels with a shipping company and an expediter to make sure the testing process is not delayed by customs.
- Account for overseas testing in your budget and timeline. All automotives and automotive components must be tested in a Chinese facility. This requires clearing customs, exchanging official documents, arranging payments, and communicating with Chinese test laboratories.Modifications or additional information might be required for final approval.
- Prepare for the factory inspection. When it comes to a factory audit, there is no such thing as being over-prepared. During the factory inspection, members of the certification agency use a standard checklist to ensure quality control and safety. This inspection will result in approval or recommended corrections to the manufacturing facility. Since the factory audit is a key part of the certification process, many manufacturers use an experienced compliance agency to walk them through the audit process and make sure they have the proper documentation.
When working to certify vehicle parts, DO NOT:
- Overlook qualified certification bodies. The Chinese government has designated two primary agencies to certify vehicles and automotive components: China Quality Certification Center (CQC) and China Center for Automotive Products (CCAP). CQC, a large certification authority, handles the CCC process and requirements for many different products. CCAP, on the other hand, specializes in the safety of vehicle parts, including seat belts, seats, fuel tanks, and interior parts.
- Forget about renewals and follow-up inspections.The CCC certificate must be renewed every year, and this process includes an annual factory inspection and may also include sample verification testing. It is important to work the cost of this surveillance program into your budget to ensure the CCC certification does not lapse. Some professional compliance agencies offer certification tracking services that help track upcoming expirations, changes in applicable standards, and the renewal process. Staying on top of necessary renewals and inspections will prevent a time-consuming and costly lapse in certification.
About the Author: Paul Milton is the CEO of G&M Compliance, a full-service compliance and certification agency headquartered in Orange, Calif. G&M Compliance specializes in getting certifications fast, and they have helped clients sell products in China, Europe, India, and around the world since 1997. With technical expertise, industry knowledge, and valuable connections, G&M certify a wide range of products, including challenging certifications like wireless products, IT equipment, and automotive products.
