One time, I lost a shipment because I didn’t have the right certificates. It was stuck at customs for weeks. After that, I made sure I knew every rule before I shipped anything to the Middle East.
You need ECAS certification for the UAE and SASO certification through the SABER platform for Saudi Arabia. These approvals make sure your electric hoists meet safety standards and clear customs.
I still remember how stressful that first delay was. But after I figured it out, I made a simple checklist. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how I handle certifications now.
[Table of contents]
- What is ECAS Certification in the UAE and How Do I Get It?
- How Does SASO Certification Work in Saudi Arabia?
- How Do I Register Electric Hoists on the SABER Platform?
- How Long Does It Take to Get ECAS and SASO Certification?
- How Can I Ensure Smooth Customs Clearance for Electric Hoists in the Middle East?
- What Are the Benefits of Getting Certified Before Exporting Electric Hoists?
- Where Can I Find Help with ECAS, SASO, and SABER Registration?
What is ECAS Certification in the UAE and How Do I Get It?
When I first exported to the UAE, I had no idea ECAS was required. My shipment didn’t move until I sorted it out.
ECAS stands for Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme. It proves your electric hoists meet UAE standards. Without it, customs won’t clear your goods.
How I Got ECAS Certification Step by Step
Application Process
- I submitted an application to a notified body approved by MOIAT (formerly ESMA).
- I provided product details, test reports, and technical documents.
- The product was tested according to UAE standards.
- After approval, I received the ECAS certificate.
Documents I Prepared
| Document Name | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Product Technical File | Describes product specifications |
| Test Reports (ISO/IEC) | Proves product safety |
| Declaration of Conformity | Manufacturer’s statement of compliance |
| ECAS Application Form | Official request for certification |
How Long It Took
It took me 4 to 6 weeks, but the testing process took most of that time.
My Advice
I used Intertek for my certification. They guided me through each step. The clearer your documents are, the faster the process.
How Does SASO Certification Work in Saudi Arabia?
I once thought SASO was just a sticker. It’s not. Without SASO approval, Saudi customs won’t release your goods.
SASO certification ensures your electric hoists comply with Saudi standards. You can only get SASO certificates through the SABER online platform.
My SASO Certification Process
Step-by-Step Process
- I registered my products on the SABER platform.
- I selected an authorized certification body.
- My products were reviewed and tested if needed.
- I received the Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC).
- Before shipping, I applied for a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC).
Documents I Submitted
| Document Name | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Product Description | Lists product technical details |
| Test Reports | Verifies product safety and performance |
| Manufacturer’s Authorization | Shows you have permission to certify |
| SABER Registration Info | Registers products in Saudi Arabia |
Timeframe
It took me 5 to 8 weeks, but it can be quicker if your products have international certifications.
What I Learned
Use certification bodies that are familiar with Saudi standards. I worked with SGS, and they were very helpful.
How Do I Register Electric Hoists on the SABER Platform?
At first, SABER seemed complicated. But after I did it once, it was simple.
You need to register your electric hoists on SABER before applying for SASO certification. Without this, customs won’t clear your shipments.
My SABER Registration Walkthrough
How I Registered
- I created an account on the SABER portal as an importer.
- I added each product, providing names and specifications.
- I uploaded the necessary documents.
- I submitted the application for review by an approved body.
Information Required
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Category | Electric Hoists (Industrial Equipment) |
| HS Code | Matches customs declaration |
| Technical Specs | Voltage, load capacity, etc. |
| Certification Documents | Test reports, conformity statements |
My Tip
Choose the right product category. If you make a mistake here, it will delay everything. I did it once, and it added two weeks to my timeline.
How Long Does It Take to Get ECAS and SASO Certification?
I always plan early. Certification timelines vary, and delays happen.
ECAS typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, while SASO via SABER takes 5 to 8 weeks. Times can vary depending on document readiness and testing requirements.
My Certification Timeline
| Certification | Timeframe | Key Steps |
|---|---|---|
| ECAS (UAE) | 4-6 weeks | Application, testing, approval |
| SASO (Saudi) | 5-8 weeks | SABER registration, conformity assessment |
Factors That Affected My Timeline
- Incomplete documents
- Misunderstanding product categories
- Delays during testing due to product complexity
How I Improved My Process
I prepared all documents before applying. I also worked with local agents who helped me avoid mistakes.
How Can I Ensure Smooth Customs Clearance for Electric Hoists in the Middle East?
One time, customs held my shipment for three weeks. I missed a deadline on a major project. Now I triple-check everything.
To ensure clearance, your products must have valid ECAS and SASO certifications, and you must present all required documents at customs.
My Customs Clearance Checklist
What I Always Prepare
- ECAS or SASO certificates
- Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) for Saudi Arabia
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading
- Product test reports (on request)
Common Issues I Faced
- Wrong HS codes on documents
- Expired certificates
- Incomplete packing lists
What Helped Me
Working with experienced freight forwarders and local customs brokers saved me time and reduced stress.
What Are the Benefits of Getting Certified Before Exporting Electric Hoists?
I didn’t understand the value of certification at first. After I got certified, I won more bids and had fewer customs issues.
Certification ensures your products meet Middle East standards. It helps you pass customs smoothly and builds trust with buyers.
My Business Improvements After Certification
| Benefit | What It Helped Me With |
|---|---|
| Faster Customs Clearance | No more shipment delays |
| Increased Buyer Confidence | Easier to close contracts |
| Legal Compliance | No fines or rejections at customs |
Real Impact
Since getting ECAS and SASO certifications, I’ve had repeat clients in UAE and Saudi Arabia. They trust my products because they meet local standards.
Where Can I Find Help with ECAS, SASO, and SABER Registration?
I didn’t figure this out alone. I found help from industry experts and trade shows.
I recommend working with certification bodies, attending trade fairs, and using local agents to simplify the process.
My Go-To Resources
Where I Got Help
- Certification Bodies: Intertek, SGS, TÜV SÜD
- Trade Shows: Middle East Machinery Exhibition, Oil Equipment Expo
- Local Agents: Helped with SABER registration and customs clearance
Helpful Links
Conclusion
Certification helps electric hoists enter the Middle East market and pass customs fast.
