What is CE marking? Meaning and when a product needs it
CE marking is required for some product types and prohibited on others, so the first step is knowing which applies.
Definition
CE markingCE marking is a mark that the manufacturer affixes to a product to show that it meets the EU harmonised legislation that requires the mark, such as the rules for toys, electrical equipment, radio equipment, machinery or personal protective equipment. Before affixing it, the manufacturer must assess conformity, compile technical documentation and sign an EU declaration of conformity.
How CE marking works for a brand owner
If you sell a product under your own name, you are its manufacturer for CE purposes, even if a factory made it. You are responsible for the conformity assessment, the technical documentation and the EU declaration of conformity, which must be kept for at least 10 years after the product is placed on the market. Where the rules require third-party testing, a notified body is involved and its four-digit number appears next to the mark.
CE marking applies only to products covered by EU rules that require it. Placing it on other products, for example a cushion or a mug, is not allowed. Those products still have to be safe under GPSR. Some products fall under several CE regimes at once: a battery-powered toy with Bluetooth can involve toy, radio and other rules.
The common mistake is treating a factory’s CE certificate as enough. A document issued to the factory for a different model, or by a body that is not a notified body for that legislation, does not make your product compliant. You need technical documentation that matches your exact product and a declaration of conformity in your name. For Great Britain, the government recognises CE marking indefinitely for a list of product regulations, including toys and electrical goods.
This summary is general information; the conformity route for a specific product is checked with a licensed specialist. See toys, electronics and our compliance stage.
Related terms
GPSR
EU Regulation 2023/988 setting safety duties for consumer products, applicable since 13 December 2024.
EU responsible person
The EU-based operator answerable to authorities for a product’s compliance.
EPR (extended producer responsibility)
Rules that make producers responsible for the waste stage of their packaging and products.
Frequently asked questions
Is CE marking a quality mark?
No. It is a declaration by the manufacturer that the product meets the EU requirements that apply to it. It does not certify quality beyond those requirements.
Can I put CE marking on any product?
No. CE marking may only be used on products covered by EU legislation that requires it. Using it on other products is not allowed.
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