In today’s global marketplace, businesses who want to export to Saudi Arabia must ensure that their products match the Kingdom’s regulatory and quality criteria. The Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO) facilitates this process by authorizing SASO Approved Inspection Bodies. These agencies are responsible for ensuring that goods fit the Conformity Assessment Program (SALEEM) requirements before entering the Saudi market.
This article delves into the role, importance, and list of SASO-approved inspection organizations, providing valuable knowledge for exporters, manufacturers, and compliance professionals.
What is an SASO-approved inspection body?
A SASO Approved Inspection Body is an organization recognized by SASO to perform conformity assessments, product inspections, and certification services in compliance with Saudi technical rules. These inspection bodies guarantee that commodities meet the safety, environmental, and technological requirements set by SASO.
They are part of the SALEEM initiative, which comprises the Product Safety initiative (SABER), an electronic platform designed to simplify conformity evaluations and product certification before to shipping to Saudi Arabia.
Key Responsibilities of SASO-Approved Inspection Bodies
SASO inspection bodies are assigned the following responsibilities:
Pre-shipment inspection and verification.
Product testing in certified laboratories.
Issue of Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
Issue of Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
Labeling and packaging verification
Factory audits and compliance checks.
These processes are crucial for ensuring that imported products comply with the Kingdom’s technical regulations.
Why Choosing an SASO Approved Inspection Body is Critical.
Selecting an SASO-accredited body ensures:
Faster customs clearance and fewer queues at Saudi ports.
Reduced chance of cargo rejection or penalty for non-compliance.
Increased product credibility and trust among Saudi customers.
Compliance with SASO-published technical regulations.
Exporters can reduce risks and establish a reputation for quality and compliance by working with a recognized inspection body.
Top SASO Approved Inspection Bodies for 2025
The following is a list of top SASO-approved inspection organizations known for their vast network, technological capability, and continuous compliance support.
- Société Générale de Surveillance (SGS).
SGS, one of the world’s top inspection and testing businesses, operates in several countries and provides end-to-end SASO compliance services. Product testing and conformance verification Technical file assessment and documentation support. SCoC and PCoC issuance through the SABER platform. Website: www.sgs.com. 2) Intertek
Intertek, the global pioneer in quality assurance, is generally trusted for SASO certification processes: A comprehensive variety of inspection and certification services Specialized support for electrical, electronic, and automotive products Direct SABER connectivity for simplified documentation. Website: www.intertek.com. - TÜV Rheinland.
TÜV Rheinland, a German inspection company, provides world-class services for Saudi conformance programs: Product testing, documentation, and certification. Deep understanding of Saudi technical regulations Assistance with accessing the SABER system. Website: www.tuv.com. 4) Bureau Veritas
Bureau Veritas, an SASO-designated body, offers a comprehensive range of testing, inspection, and certification services: Pre-shipment inspections Technical file evaluations Conformity tests designed for specific product types Website address: www.bureauveritas.com. - QIMA (previously Asia Inspection)
SASO has honored QIMA for their tech-enabled compliance platform. Product conformance evaluation and factory audits SABER registration and paperwork support Comprehensive inspection of consumer items, textiles, toys, and electronics. Website: www.qima.com. - Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
UL, a well regarded name in product safety, is allowed to issue SASO certificates for: Electronics and home appliances Electrical installations Hazardous location equipment Website: www.ul.com. - CoTecna
Cotecna has decades of experience with inspection and compliance. Their SASO services include the following: Product testing and certification. SABER System Management Support both in Saudi Arabia and internationally Website address: www.cotecna.com. Steps to Become Certified by an SASO-Approved Inspection Body
To get the necessary SCoC and PCoC certificates for your products, complete these steps: Product Registration on SABER.
Set up an account on the SABER platform and register the product category. Select an Approved Inspection Body.
To handle conformity verification, select an inspection body approved by SASO. Submit the required documentation.
Provide technical requirements, product test results, factory audits, and quality certifications. Product Evaluation and Testing.
The inspection body will compare the product to SASO’s technical regulations. Issue of Product CoC (PCoC)
Following satisfactory evaluation, the PCoC will be issued. Apply for Shipment CoC (SCoC).
Request that a SCoC accompany each shipment to Saudi Arabia. SASO Approved Inspection Bodies Regulations Apply to a Wide Range of Industries, including: Electrical and Electronics Home Appliances Auto and Spare Parts Textile and Footwear Cosmetics & Personal Care Construction and Building Materials Chemical Products Machinery and Tools Toys and Baby Products Each industry has its own set of technical regulations, which approved inspection organizations must understand and enforce. Benefits of Working with SASO-Approved Inspection Bodies
Expert navigation of complex regulatory frameworks. Avoid costly shipment delays or rejections. Confident that your products will reach the Saudi market on schedule. Simplified process using digital technologies such as SABER. Assurance of legal and technical compliance with Saudi laws These inspection agencies act as a link between overseas exporters and Saudi regulatory standards. Conclusion: Ensure Market Access through SASO Accredited Partners.
If your company intends to export items to Saudi Arabia, working with an SASO Approved Inspection Body is not a choice; it is required. These bodies assist you in complying with the Kingdom’s stringent technical rules, protecting your company’s reputation, and ensuring that your products are ready for a seamless launch into the Saudi market. Always make sure that the inspection body is currently approved by SASO, as accreditation status can change. Use the SABER platform as a centralized tool for all compliance and certification activities.
