What Are the Risks of Selling Non-Compliant Consumer Products in the EU?
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Selling non-compliant products into the EU can lead to customs blocks, product bans, or account suspensions. The General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 applies to nearly all consumer products sold to EU consumers—even if you're based outside Europe. This article outlines the key risks you face when skipping compliance.
What Can Go Wrong Without GPSR Compliance?
EU authorities actively monitor products sold in stores and online. If your goods fail to meet GPSR rules, enforcement may include:
- Blocked listings: Marketplaces like Amazon and Etsy may remove your product without notice.
- Customs holds: Non-compliant shipments can be detained or destroyed at EU borders.
- Fines and recalls: National authorities may order recalls, product bans, or apply financial penalties.
- Reputation damage: Your product may be listed in the EU Safety Gate database for unsafe goods.
Who Is Legally Responsible?
Under GPSR, legal obligations apply to every actor in the supply chain. If you're the importer, private label brand, or online seller targeting EU consumers, you're responsible for:
- Appointing an EU Responsible Person
- Preparing and maintaining a technical file for 10 years
- Adding required labeling and traceability markings
- Handling safety incidents and recall coordination
Marketplaces and Fulfillment Services Enforce GPSR
Online platforms must verify that products sold in the EU meet legal safety obligations. This means:
- Your listings can be suspended without prior notice
- Stock held in fulfillment centers may be rejected
- You must display the EU Responsible Person contact in listings
Learn more about GPSR Requirements and how to comply as a non-EU seller.
Common Causes of Non-Compliance
Many businesses are flagged for simple avoidable mistakes:
- Incorrect or missing labeling (e.g. no EU RP or batch code)
- Lack of risk assessment or Declaration of Conformity
- Product description fails to include safety warnings
- No technical documentation available upon request
For labeling help, see our guide to labelling requirements.
How GPSR Solutions Can Support You
- EU Responsible Person services (Germany-based)
- Risk analysis and technical documentation
- GPSR compliance certificates for grouped products
- Custom label and packaging checks
- Support with recalls and Safety Gate notifications
Explore our full service offering or contact us directly for tailored guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an EU Responsible Person mandatory?
Yes. Almost all non-food consumer products must list an EU-based contact on labels and online listings.
What happens if I don’t have technical documentation?
Your product may be withdrawn from the market. Authorities can request full GPSR files at any time, and sellers usually have just 10 days to provide them.
Are handmade or small-batch products exempt?
No. The regulation applies to all non-food consumer goods regardless of how they are produced or the number of units sold.
Where can I get help with GPSR compliance?
You can contact GPSR Solutions for fast, fixed-price support with risk analysis, certification, and EU representation.