How can I verify whether the Declaration of Conformity is real?

Verifying the authenticity of a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is important when you are dealing with regulated products. To ensure that a DoC is real and valid, you can follow these steps:

• Check the Document
  Review the document carefully for any obvious signs of forgery or tampering. Look for inconsistencies in formatting, spelling errors, or irregularities in the document’s content.

• Contact the Manufacturer or Authorised Representative
  It is the responsibility of the manufacturer or Authorised Representative (AR) to ensure that the information provided in a Declaration of Conformity is relevant and up to date. The contact information of the manufacturer/AR is indicated on the DoC. You can use this information to take up contact with the responsible party directly to ensure that the product meets all relevant European health and safety standards. You can usually also find the contact information on the product packaging, the product itself, or their official website.

• Verify the CE Mark
  Ensure that the CE mark is present on the product and matches the information on the DoC. The CE mark should be affixed to the product or its packaging if required.

• Cross-Check Information
  Compare the information provided on the DoC with other available information. For example, verify that the product’s specifications, model numbers, and other details match what is indicated in the DoC.

• Check for Required Documentation
  In some cases, the DoC should be accompanied by other documentation, such as test reports, Technical Files, or certificates. Verify that these supporting documents exist and appear genuine.

• Contact Regulatory Authorities
  Depending on the region and product type, you can contact relevant regulatory authorities or Notified Bodies (NoBo’s) to inquire about the validity of the DoC. They may have databases or information to confirm the authenticity of the document.

• Contact Certification Experts
  In many cases, products must meet multiple EU harmonised standards. This is especially the case for products which consist of many parts (such as machinery) and for medical devices. If you need help identifying whether a Declaration of Conformity is valid you can contact us. We can help you verify that the DoC meets and mentions all relevant standards and necessary testing procedures to ensure that it meets the legal requirements of the applicable Directive(s), Regulation(s) and/or Standard(s).

Read more about the Declaration of Conformity here. Are you importing, distributing, or manufacturing products intended for use in the EU? Contact us for technical documentation reviews, CE marking support, Authorised Representative services and more.