The document most frequently scrutinized in TAREKS document reviews is the EU Declaration of Conformity. Although it appears to be a simple one-page document, a missing or inconsistent declaration of conformity can bring the import process to a halt at customs. In this article we explain what elements the declaration needs to contain.
The Purpose of the Declaration of Conformity
The EU Declaration of Conformity is an official document in which the manufacturer (or its authorized representative) declares in writing that the product complies with all relevant EU directives and regulations. In a TAREKS review, this document is treated as the first piece of evidence for whether there is a genuine technical assessment behind the CE mark on the product. For more information on the general concept, see our article How Is the EU Declaration of Conformity Prepared?; in this article we address the topic specifically in the context of TAREKS/customs review.
Minimum Elements the Declaration Must Contain
- The product's unique identifier: model, type or serial number
- The name and full address of the manufacturer or authorized representative
- Which directive(s) and regulation(s) the declaration is issued under
- The reference numbers and publication dates of the applied harmonized standards
- The name and identification number of the notified body involved in the process, if any
- The place and date the declaration was issued
- The name, title and signature of the official who signed the declaration
Common Discrepancies Found in TAREKS Review
| Issue | Consequence |
|---|---|
| A difference between the model/serial number in the declaration and the actual product | The document may be deemed invalid; additional explanation is requested |
| Standard references showing an outdated version | Consistency with the technical file is questioned |
| Missing signature or date | The document is considered incomplete |
| The declaration covering only one directive when the product is subject to more than one | An additional declaration or revision may be requested |
Steps to Follow When Checking the Declaration
- Verify that the product description in the declaration exactly matches the label on the actual product.
- Check that the directives listed in the declaration cover all directives applicable to the product.
- Confirm that the standard references are up to date.
- Check that the signature and date information is complete.
- Have a Turkish translation of the declaration ready as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the declaration of conformity and the CE label the same thing?
No. The CE label is the physical mark on the product; the declaration of conformity is a separate document containing the legal declaration behind that mark. In a TAREKS audit, the two are assessed together.
Is a photocopy or scan of the declaration sufficient?
A legible scan or digital copy is generally accepted, but it is essential that the document be complete, signed, and contain information that fully matches the product.
Can the declaration be in English?
The original document generally arrives in the manufacturer's language; but having a Turkish translation available for submission if requested during an audit helps speed up the process.
Conclusion
The EU Declaration of Conformity is one of the documents most heavily scrutinized in TAREKS review. Ensuring the declaration exactly matches the product, references current standards, and is fully signed prevents delays that could occur at customs.
For more information, see our TAREKS & Import consultancy service.
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