A Practical Guide for Non-EU Sellers: Meeting GPSR Requirements in the EU
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Selling to the EU brings significant opportunity but also legal obligations. Under Regulation (EU) 2023/988, all non-EU businesses must ensure their products meet strict product safety and documentation standards before placing them on the EU market. This guide explains what non-EU sellers must do to comply.
Understanding GPSR for Non-EU Sellers
Under the General Product Safety Regulation, businesses based outside the EU must:
- Appoint an EU Responsible Person: Ensure your goods list an EU Responsible Person contact to enable traceability and accountability.
- Maintain technical documentation: A complete technical file demonstrating conformity must be available for market surveillance authorities for at least 10 years.
- Meet labeling requirements: Labels must show manufacturer details, Responsible Person contact, batch or serial numbers, and safety warnings in the languages of target EU countries.
- Prepare for recalls and incident reporting: Compliant recall notices must meet strict timelines under GPSR rules.
Learn about the GPSR requirements in more detail.
Labeling and Documentation for EU Market Access
Accurate labeling is critical for consumer safety and legal compliance. See our guidance on labelling requirements for GPSR compliance.
- Provide clear, legible information on the product or packaging.
- Ensure translations for each EU country where the product is sold.
- Maintain accessible documentation for inspections and audits.
Online Sales and Marketplace Obligations
Online platforms like Amazon and eBay are required to enforce GPSR compliance. Non-EU sellers must include their EU Responsible Person and technical file references in online listings. Products without correct labeling or documentation can be removed or blocked from sale.
How GPSR Solutions helps
- Dedicated EU Responsible Person services based in Germany.
- Technical file preparation and maintenance for 10-year retention.
- Label and warning review tailored to your product type.
- Guidance on CE marking if your product falls under harmonised legislation.
- Support for incident reporting and EU Safety Gate notifications.
Learn more about our services: What We Offer or Contact us directly.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with GPSR requirements can result in customs holds, blocked online listings, heavy fines, product withdrawals, or bans. Your products may not be allowed on the EU market without an EU Responsible Person and correct labeling.
Learn More About Selling to the EU
- GPSR Requirements – Labeling and Documentation
- The GPSR Risk Analysis Process
- Labelling Requirements for GPSR Compliance
- EU Safety Gate – RAPEX Alerts
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EU Responsible Person to sell on Amazon EU?
Yes. Amazon and other platforms require non-EU sellers to appoint an EU Responsible Person and provide contact details in listings.
What technical documentation is required?
You must maintain a technical file including a product description, risk assessment, safety testing records, labeling, and warnings, available for at least 10 years.
Can small batch or handmade products skip these rules?
No. GPSR applies to all non-food consumer products sold to EU consumers, regardless of production volume or method.
Where can I get help?
Contact GPSR Solutions for guidance and professional services: Contact us.