Learn what Amazon vendors need to comply with the EU’s new General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), effective December 2024. Stay compliant with our step-by-step guide.
AUTHOR:
As e-commerce evolves, so do regulations aimed at protecting consumers. The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), introduced by the European Union, is set to reshape how non-food consumer products are sold in the EU. Effective December 13, 2024, this regulation applies to all sellers, including Amazon vendors, requiring them to meet stricter safety and compliance standards.
If you're an Amazon vendor, here's what you need to know about the GPSR and how to prepare your business.
What is the GPSR?
The GPSR replaces the previous General Product Safety Directive and is designed to improve product safety, traceability, and enforcement for non-food products sold in the EU. Its key objectives are to protect consumers and ensure only compliant products are available in the market.
How does the GPSR affect Amazon vendors?
If you're selling on Amazon, here’s how the GPSR will impact your operations:
- Non-EU manufacturers are required to appoint a representative within the EU to handle compliance. This person’s name and contact details must be displayed on the product packaging.
- Every product must carry traceable details, such as batch or serial numbers, along with the manufacturer or importer’s contact information.
- Amazon now requires sellers to provide documentation such as declarations of conformity, risk assessments, and test reports to meet GPSR standards.
- EU authorities can inspect, remove, or fine non-compliant products, and Amazon may suspend listings that fail to meet these new standards.
6 ways to prepare for GPSR compliance
Adapting to the GPSR might seem challenging, but taking proactive steps now can help you ensure compliance and avoid disruptions.
1. Review Your Supply Chain
- Confirm your suppliers and manufacturers are aware of and comply with GPSR standards.
- Ensure all required documentation—such as test reports and declarations of conformity—is accurate and up to date.
2. Appoint a Responsible Person
- Work with your suppliers or logistics partners to designate an EU-based representative.
- Include their contact details clearly on product labels.
3. Update Product Labelling
- Add traceable information, such as batch or serial numbers, to every product.
- Ensure labels include all required contact details and are fully compliant with GPSR standards.
4. Audit Your Amazon Listings
- Review your product descriptions, images, and uploaded documents to ensure they meet GPSR requirements.
- Update listings as necessary to reflect the latest compliance standards.
5. Prepare for Documentation Requests
- Be ready to provide safety documentation, including testing certificates and user instructions, to both Amazon and EU market authorities.
- Translate documentation into the language of your target country, as required.
6. Train Your Team
- Educate your staff about GPSR requirements, including labelling, documentation, and responding to marketplace or authority inquiries.
- Develop internal workflows and checklists to regularly review compliance.
Staying ahead of GPSR compliance is critical
Non-compliance with the GPSR can result in fines, product removal, or even listing suspensions on Amazon. Beyond the legal risks, failing to comply could damage your brand’s reputation and customer trust.
By meeting the GPSR standards, you demonstrate your commitment to product safety and reliability, which can set you apart in a competitive marketplace. Compliance isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s an opportunity to build stronger relationships with your customers.
3 key takeaways for Amazon vendors:
- Work with experts to ensure a seamless transition to GPSR standards.
- Regularly review your supply chain, labelling, and documentation to stay compliant.
- Monitor compliance tools and respond quickly to any documentation requests.
Ensure every product you sell is fully compliant, traceable, and safe. Doing so not only protects your business but also enhances customer trust and loyalty.
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