Introduction:
In Europe, a continent where fashion trends intersect with strict regulations, behind every showstopper there is a little-known compliance journey. From the design sketch to the landing of sales, clothing companies not only to lead the fashion, but also to cross the threshold of many regulations to ensure that every link is in line with the strict standards of the EU and various countries. So what should we POD clothing sellers do? Here's a look at the various compliance issues involved in selling clothing in Europe to help you navigate this sea of fashion and rules.
【 First, compliance project inventory 】
1. EPR registration: full name “ Extension of producer responsibility ” Extended Producer Responsibility (Extended Producer Responsibility) requires companies to take responsibility for recycling and disposal of products at the end of their life cycle. For clothing companies, it is necessary to register and participate in textile recycling programs and assume environmental responsibility.
2. GPSR compliance: "General Product Safety Regulation" stipulates that all goods placed on the market must ensure user safety and no obvious hazards. The clothing should be non-toxic, non-irritating and non-allergic, and meet the special safety requirements for children's clothing.
3. Odai/Yingdai: Non-local enterprises selling in the EU/UK need to specify “ Authorized representative ” Responsible for handling communication with market regulators, product recalls and other matters to ensure compliance with local regulations.
4. CE/UKCA certification: The CE mark is the EU market access mark, proving that the product conforms to the relevant directives of health, safety and environmental protection; The UKCA mark is applicable to the UK market, and both cover standards such as fire resistance and chemical limits of clothing.
5. Eu energy efficiency label: For clothing with warm or cooling function, such as down jackets, sunscreen clothes, etc., need to be affixed with energy efficiency label, indicating its thermal insulation or UV protection effect.
6. RoHS certification: Limits the use of specific hazardous substances in electronic and electrical equipment, although mainly for electronic products, but smart clothing, LED decorative clothing and other clothing that may involve electronic components need to meet this requirement.
7. REACH qualification: Control the use of chemicals in commodities to ensure the safety of human body and the environment. Clothing and accessories should avoid substances of high concern (SVHC) and be notified as required.
8. RSL report: Limit the residues of harmful chemicals in textiles, such as azo dyes, heavy metals, etc. The enterprise needs to conduct regular testing to ensure that the product meets the limit requirements.
9. FCM report: Food Contact Materials report applies to clothing parts that may come into contact with food, such as aprons, gloves, etc., to ensure that the material is free of migratory hazardous substances.
10. IPXX Protection level test: For outdoor clothing with waterproof and dustproof functions, it is necessary to pass the IP (Ingress Protection) level test to clarify the protection level.
【 Two, packaging and labeling requirements 】
The following information must be clearly marked on the product and its packaging:
1. Product name: accurately reflects the nature of the product and shall not mislead consumers.
2. Model: Easy to distinguish between different styles, colors or sizes.
3. Manufacturer name: True and valid company name.
4. Manufacturer's address: includes the address of the headquarters or the address of the production place.
5. Origin information: clearly indicates the country or region where the goods are manufactured.
6. Production date/batch number: Easy to trace the source of product production, the implementation of recall and other measures.
In addition, it is necessary to provide a detailed product manual, covering:
1. Usage: Clearly guide consumers to wear, match and wash properly.
2. Precautions: Warn special groups (such as infants, people with allergies) of the risk of use, and avoid the harm that may be caused by improper use.
3. Maintenance: Provide advice on cleaning, drying, storage, etc., to extend the service life of clothing.
【 Third, Ways and Methods of compliance testing 】
1. Internal quality control: Enterprises should establish a sound quality management system, strict monitoring of raw material procurement, production process, finished product inspection and other links.
2. Third-party testing institutions: entrust authoritative laboratories to conduct compliance tests and obtain various certifications and reports. Such as SGS, Intertek, TUV and other internationally renowned testing institutions.
3. Regulators spot check: The EU and the market regulators of the member states will conduct random spot checks on the goods on the market, and the goods that do not meet the provisions will face penalties such as removal from the shelves, fines and even market bans.
4. Self-declaration: For some projects that do not require third-party certification (such as GPSR), enterprises can assess and issue a declaration of compliance according to regulations.
Conclusion:
The European apparel market is full of opportunities, but strict compliance requirements cannot be ignored. We POD clothing sellers must thoroughly understand and properly respond to EPR registration, various certifications, safety standards, labeling requirements and other compliance projects, while ensuring the completeness of product packaging and instructions. Through internal quality control, third-party testing and close monitoring of regulatory developments, it is possible to proceed steadily on the European fashion stage.
FAQs
1. Which clothing categories require energy efficiency labeling and RoHS certification?
- Energy efficiency labels are mainly for clothing with warm or cooling functions, such as down jackets, sunscreen clothing, etc. RoHS certification is for smart clothing containing electronic components, LED decorative clothing and so on.
2. How to choose the right Odai/Yingdai service?
- Enterprises should examine the agency's qualifications, experience, service level and communication ability to ensure that it can effectively assist in handling compliance matters.
3. What are the main aspects of REACH's impact on the garment industry?
- REACH regulations require clothing enterprises to strictly control the SVHC content in products, involving raw material screening, supply chain management and regular testing and other links.
4. How does IPXX protection level test apply to clothing products?
- If outdoor clothing is claimed to have waterproof and dustproof functions, the specific protection level should be determined by IPXX grade test and stated on the product label.
5. What punishment will I face if I do not provide the product manual according to the regulations?
- Unprovided or incomplete product manuals may lead to consumer complaints, penalties from market regulators, and even affect brand reputation and market access.