If you’re a maker who ships to customers in the European Union (EU) or Northern Ireland (NI), understanding the new General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) is crucial. The GPSR, which replaces the older General Product Safety Directive (GPSD), introduces updated rules to ensure that all products sold in the EU meet strict safety standards.
Here’s what you need to know about how these regulations impact your handmade business and the steps to take to stay compliant.
What is the GPSR?
The GPSR is a set of rules designed to protect EU consumers from unsafe products. Whether you sell handmade items, vintage treasures, or crafting supplies, your products must comply if you ship to EU customers.
These regulations apply to all sellers—no matter where they’re based. The main goal is to ensure your products won’t cause harm and to provide buyers with clear information about how to use them safely.
Key Changes You Need to Know
Prioritizing product safety is more important than ever. The new regulations require transparency, clear communication, and proactive measures to protect both your customers and your business. Whether you sell home decor, children’s toys, or artisanal goods, following these guidelines builds trust and helps you stay compliant.
Here’s a breakdown of the key safety requirements for your shop.
Clear Product Labels
To comply with regulations and build trust with buyers, your product label must include the following:
- Contact Information: Include your business name, address, and contact details, as well as the contact information for the manufacturer (if applicable) and the Responsible Person located in the EU.
- Identification: Provide a unique identifier—such as a batch or serial number—to trace the product back to its source. Also, state the country where the product was made (e.g., “Made in the USA”).
- Safety Information: Add any necessary warnings and usage instructions in the language of the country where the product is sold.
Each of these components plays a key role in ensuring transparency and accountability.
Why it matters: Clear labels make it easier for authorities and customers to trace your products if safety concerns arise. Providing detailed information shows that your brand is transparent and dedicated to buyer safety, which can build customer confidence and strengthen your reputation.
For a deeper look at certain label requirements and how to meet them, continue reading the detailed sections below. These will help you ensure your product labels meet compliance standards and resonate with buyers.
Responsible Person in the EU
One of the key requirements for selling products in the EU under the GPSR is designating a Responsible Person located within the EU. This person serves as the main point of contact for authorities in case of compliance checks or safety concerns.
The Responsible Person:
- Acts as a Compliance Liaison: The Responsible Person responds to requests from EU authorities, such as providing technical documentation and safety reports.
- Maintains Product Information: They must have access to your product’s safety records, such as test reports, risk assessments, and labeling details.
- Coordinates Safety Actions: In case of product recalls or safety issues, the Responsible Person can assist in managing communication with authorities and customers.
The Responsible Person may be:
- A manufacturer, importer, or distributor located within the EU.
- A consultant or third-party compliance specialist offering Responsible Person services for a fee.
Some non-EU sellers work with third-party agencies to ensure they meet this requirement, especially if they do not have a physical presence in the EU.
Why This Matters: Having a designated Responsible Person in the EU ensures that regulatory authorities can easily contact someone if they need to verify your product’s compliance or address safety concerns. This builds trust with EU buyers and shows your commitment to adhering to local regulations.
Instructions and Warnings
If your product requires specific instructions—such as a handmade candle or a DIY craft kit—clear usage directions and safety warnings are essential. These details ensure that buyers use your products safely and correctly, reducing the likelihood of accidents or misuse.
Digital items are also subject to the GPSR requirements for instructions and warnings. When selling digital products in the EU, you must assess and disclose potential hazards associated with their use. This includes risks such as viruses and malware, system compatibility issues, and potential concerns related to emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) or the Internet of Things (IoT).
Examples for Physical Products:
- “Keep away from flammable surfaces.”
- “Choking hazard: Contains small parts. Keep out of reach of children under 3.”
Examples for Digital Products:
- “Ensure antivirus software is updated before downloading.”
- “Compatible with Windows 10 and macOS 11.0 or higher.”
- “This product uses AI-generated content. Review all output for accuracy before use.”
Why it matters: Providing clear instructions and warnings not only helps protect your customers but also safeguards your business. It shows your commitment to safety, prevents potential issues, and builds trust with your buyers by demonstrating care and responsibility.
Monitoring Product Safety
Your responsibility doesn’t end once your product is sold. It’s important to keep an eye on customer feedback and reviews to catch any safety concerns or complaints.
What to do:
- Pay attention to repeated concerns or issues.
- Take action quickly if needed—update the product, switch to safer materials, or pause sales until the issue is resolved.
Why it matters: Proactively addressing concerns helps protect your customers and strengthens trust in your brand.
Tracking and Traceability
To stay compliant, you must keep detailed records of where your products were sold and shipped for at least 10 years. These records should include order details, such as customer contact information, shipping addresses, and products purchased, as well as technical documents related to your products.
Why it matters: If a safety issue arises, accurate records make it easy to notify affected customers quickly. Traceability helps show that you’re proactive about addressing concerns and committed to product safety.
New Risk Assessment Requirements
If you create items like children’s toys or home decor, you may need to assess the risk level of your products.
What to consider:
- Who will use the product (e.g., children vs. adults)?
- What materials go into the manufacturing of your products?
- What are potential hazards such as choking risks, flammability, or sharp edges?
Why it matters: Documenting your safety assessments shows that you’ve taken steps to ensure your products are safe. Authorities may ask for proof, so having records demonstrates your commitment to compliance and customer well-being.
What Happens if You Don’t Comply?
Failing to follow GPSR rules can have serious consequences, such as but not limited to:
- Having your products banned from the EU market
- Receiving fines or penalties from EU authorities
- Losing customer trust if buyers experience safety issues
Steps to Stay Compliant
Staying compliant may feel overwhelming, but it’s manageable with the right approach. By staying organized and proactive, you can meet the GPSR’s requirements and build trust with your customers.
Here’s a quick compliance checklist:
- Update Your Product Labels: Clearly display your contact information, business name, the country of origin, and unique identifier on your products using tags, stickers, or packaging.
- Identify a Responsible Person: Appoint a Responsible Person based in the EU who can be contacted by market surveillance authorities for compliance checks.
- Create Safety Instructions: Provide clear usage directions for all products including digital items. For example, include allergen warnings for handmade bath products or compatibility details for digital downloads.
- Prepare Technical Documents: Keep records of your product materials and any potential hazards, such as physical, mechanical, flammable, or chemical risks. Ensure these documents are accessible for compliance purposes.
- Keep Records: Maintain detailed sales and shipping records for at least 10 years to ensure you can trace orders if safety issues arise.
- Monitor Feedback: Regularly review customer feedback and messages to identify and address potential safety concerns early.
Your Path to Compliance and Success
The GPSR is all about keeping your customers safe and informed. By updating your labels, adding clear instructions, and keeping detailed records, you can continue selling confidently to EU buyers. Staying compliant not only protects your shop but also builds trust with your audience.
For more detailed guidance, check out these resources:
- European Union documentation: GPSR Official Document
- US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration article: EU Consumer Goods General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR)
- Etsy’s Seller Handbook article: Product Safety Essentials: Selling Consumer Products to Europe Under the GPSR
- Folksy blog article: GPSR EU General Product Safety Regulations: What you need to know as an artist or maker on Folksy
- Amazon Seller Central article: General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR)
In addition, keep an eye on eRank’s blog and social channels for more tips and updates. Happy international selling!
