Image of the seized toys. Source: cbp.gov
According to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) media release, CBP officers at the Champlain Port of Entry seized a shipment of toys valued at $28,747 due to a lack of a required tracking label and lack of a General Certificate of Conformity as required by the Consumer Product Safety Act.
What is a General Certificate of Conformity (GCC)?
- A GCC is required for products made overseas or by a US manufacturer of a domestically produced good.
- The certificate reflects the results of a test of each product.
- An extensive list of all non-children’s products requiring a test can be found here.
- The GCC is accompanied with a shipment and manufacturers/importers must provide GCC to a distributor or retailer.
- If a manufacturer or importer sells direct to consumers, then no GCC is necessary.
- If you would like a Sample GCC form, please email me.
- A GCC does not need to be filed with the Government.
- Electronic certificates are okay, with some manufacturers and importers posting their certificates online.
- A GCC is required for EACH shipment.
- A GCC does not need to be signed.
- Failure to provide a GCC could lead to civil and criminal penalties.
If you have any questions or want to be in compliance with the GCC requirements, contact David Hsu at 832-896-6288 or by email at dh@gjatradelaw.com, attorney.dave@yahoo.com.