CPSC – The Safety Checkpoint for Importers ??
Welcome to Peace of Freight, your go-to newsletter for staying ahead in the world of freight and logistics! ?
Whether you’re importing goods into the U.S., toying with the idea of taking your business global or moving hazardous cargo – we’ve got you covered with our insights and updates every month. ?
I’m Juan Lara, an independent freight forwarder on a mission to prove that international shipping can be smooth and stress-free – if you only know how!
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In this month’s newsletter
??? A Quick Look at CPSC’s Role
??? Must-Know Safety Standards for Importing
??? Key Terms for Smooth Importing: ISN & IOR
??? Recalls: What You Need to Report
??? A Quick Look at CPSC’s Role
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is crucial in keeping consumer products safe for American families. Thanks to their efforts, we’ve seen a 30% drop in product-related fatalities over the past 3 decades!
This independent agency looks after all sorts of goods, from toys to household appliances. They work to protect customers from potential dangers like fire, electrical, chemical, and mechanical hazards - particularly those that could harm children.
CPSC can investigate product safety incidents, issue recalls, and impose fines. So, as an importer, you need to grasp CPSC regulations and processes to ensure your products are safe for market entry.
??? Must-Know Safety Standards for Importers
Here are 5 important regulations you should be aware of:
·???????? Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA): This is the foundation of CPSC regulations. It gives the agency the power to enforce safety standards.
·???????? Flammable Fabrics Act (FFA): Helps keep textiles and clothing from becoming fire hazards.
·???????? Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA): Requires child-resistant packaging for products like medicines, to keep little ones safe from accidental ingestion.
·???????? Lead-Based Paint Prohibition Act: Bans the sale of lead-based paint in the U.S.
·???????? E-Waste Law: Regulates the recycling and disposal of electronic products.
??? Key Terms for Smooth Importing: ISN & IOR
Let’s start with the Import Safety Notification (ISN). This notification is mandatory for regulated products before they enter the U.S. market. It helps the CPSC identify potentially hazardous items early on.
When preparing an ISN, the first step is to include a detailed product description. You'll also need to provide the manufacturer’s details and your information as the importer.
Oh! And make sure to add:
·???????? Documentation proving compliance with CPSC standards.
·???????? A declaration confirming that your product meets all applicable regulations.
Next, we have the Importer of Record (IOR). This term refers to you—the person responsible for ensuring all imported products meet CPSC regulations.
Your key duties as the IOR include submitting ISNs for regulated products, responding to CPSC inquiries, and cooperating with any investigations related to product safety. Since you’re liable for violations, staying on top of CPSC standards is a must.
??? Recalls: What You Need to Report
As an importer, you must report any potentially unsafe products to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
So, when should you report?
·???????? If you spot a defect that could pose a risk to consumers.
·???????? If you receive complaints about product safety.
·???????? If your manufacturer or supplier issues a recall.
How to go about making a report?
·???????? Identify the product (model number, and manufacturer).
·???????? Outline the specific safety hazard.
·???????? Estimate the number of products affected.
·???????? Describe any steps taken to address the issue.
?? Over to you…
Have you had to report a potentially unsafe product? What was that process like for you? ??
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Happy reading, and stay tuned for more! ????