Why Certification Matters for Saudi Imports

Since 2020, Saudi Arabia has enforced strict mandatory certification for building materials through SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) and its online platform SABER. Importing non-compliant materials results in goods rejection at customs, fines, and project delays.

SASO vs SABER: What’s the Difference?

Aspect	SASO	SABER
What is it?	Standards organization	Online certification platform
Role	Sets standards & regulations	Issues certificates
Access	saso.gov.sa	saber.sa

Building Materials Requiring SASO/SABER Certification

• Ceramic tiles — Must pass water absorption and slip resistance tests
• Pipes & fittings — PVC, PPR, brass (pressure and chemical resistance)
• Electrical materials — Wiring, switches, panels (safety standards)
• Sanitary ware — Flush capacity, water efficiency
• Paints & coatings — Lead content, VOC limits
• Cement & concrete — Strength grades, composition
• Glass & mirrors — Safety glass requirements
• Insulation materials — Fire resistance, thermal performance

SABER Certification Process

Step 1: Register on SABER

• Create account at saber.sa
• Register as importer or manufacturer
• Provide commercial registration and import license

Step 2: Product Certificate (PCoC)

• Submit product specifications and test reports
• Tests must be from SASO-accredited laboratories
• Processing time: 3-7 business days
• Cost: $150-500 per product category

Step 3: Shipment Certificate (SCoC)

• Apply for each shipment before departure from China
• Link to the Product Certificate
• Valid for one shipment only
• Processing time: 1-3 business days

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Applying after shipment — SCoC must be issued BEFORE goods leave China
• ❌ Using non-accredited labs — Test reports must be from SASO-approved labs
• ❌ Wrong HS codes — Causes delays and possible fines
• ❌ Not renewing certificates — PCoC expires after 1 year

Timeline & Cost Summary

Item	Time	Cost
SABER Registration	1-2 days	Free
Product Testing	5-10 days	$300-1,000
Product Certificate (PCoC)	3-7 days	$150-500
Shipment Certificate (SCoC)	1-3 days	$50-150

How XinChens Helps

We handle the entire certification process for our clients:

• ✅ Coordinate SASO-accredited lab testing
• ✅ Manage SABER registration and applications
• ✅ Ensure certificates are ready before shipment
• ✅ Track all certification deadlines and renewals

Need SASO/SABER certification help? Contact XinChens: sales@xinchens.com