The Saber Certificate is a critical compliance requirement for companies that export regulated products to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is essential for manufacturers, merchants, and exporters who are seeking to enter the Saudi market seamlessly to comprehend the full extent of the Saber certificate cost imposed in Saudi Arabia. The following is a detailed analysis of the costs, components, and factors that contribute to the ultimate cost of obtaining certification on the Saber platform.
What is the Saber Certificate?
Under the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO), the Saber certificate is a component of Saudi Arabia's product safety program. It is a digital conformity assessment system that guarantees that products entering the Saudi market comply with technical regulations and consumer safety standards.
Two kinds of certifications are required for each regulated product on the Saber portal:
Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
Breakdown of the Cost of a Saber Certificate in Saudi Arabia
There are numerous variables that influence the cost of Saber certification, such as the product category, country of origin, and the certification body that has been chosen. The following is a comprehensive examination:
1. Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) The cost.
The PCoC is valid for one year and is issued for each regulated product. The following are the typical pricing components:
Saber Platform Fee: SAR 500 per product
Conformity Assessment Fee: The fee for conformity assessment varies between SAR 1,000 and SAR 3,500, contingent upon the product classification and risk level.
Testing Fees (if necessary): SAR 500 to SAR 5,000+ (applicable for high-risk categories such as electrical appliances )
The average total cost of PCoC is between SAR 1,500 and SAR 9,000.
2. Cost of Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
The SCoC is a prerequisite for each cargo and must be issued prior to the shipment's departure from the country of origin.
Saber Platform Fee: SAR 30 per shipment
Certification Body Fee: Typically, the fee for certification bodies ranges from SAR 150 to SAR 1,000.
The average total cost of SCoC is between SAR 180 and SAR 1,200.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Saber Certificates
Companies can optimize their planning by comprehending the variables that influence certification costs:
A. Product Risk Category
Products are classified as low, medium, and high-risk. In-depth testing and stringent evaluations are necessary for higher-risk items, such as electronics, toys, and construction materials, which results in an increase in certification costs.
B. Certification Body of Choice
Different rates are charged by SASO-authorized certification bodies for conformity assessment. The cost of services is contingent upon the reputation, timeliness of service, and region of operation.
C. Testing Laboratory Location
Should testing be necessary, the cost will vary depending on whether the laboratory is located locally or internationally. SASO recognition may be required for international laboratory reports, which would serve as an additional layer of validation.
D. Language Translation and Document Preparation
Delays or rejections may result from inadequate documentation. Translation fees (from English to Arabic) or consultancy fees may be incurred when external assistance is employed.
Costs to Consider in Addition
Companies may encounter the following in addition to the standard certification fees:
Preparation of Technical Files: SAR 500 to SAR 2,000
Consultancy or facilitation services: SAR 1,000 to SAR 3,000
Fees for Retesting or Reassessment: In the event of initial noncompliance
Courier Fees: For the delivery of documents, particularly physical copies of certificates, if required.
Product Examples of Saber Certificate Costs
Type of Product Cost of PCoC (SAR) SCoC Cost (SAR) Estimated Total Cost
Electrical Appliance 3,500 to 6,000 250 to 500 3,750 to 6,500
Toys 2,500 to 4,500 200 to 350 2,700 to 4,850
Fabrics 1,500 to 2,000 150 to 200 1,150–2,200
Cosmetics 1,200 to 2,500 180 to 250 1,380 to 2,750
Lighting Products 3,000 to 5,000 250 to 400 3,250 to 5,400
Methods for Decreased Saber Certification Costs
In order to optimize your expenditures while maintaining compliance:
1. Certification Services Bundled
Collaborate with a single certification body for all products. They frequently provide discounted rates for packages that include multiple services.
2. Select Products Prudently
By employing classification strategies within the same category, it is possible to prevent the duplication of certification for similar product variants.
3. Utilize components that have been pre-tested.
Products that possess pre-certified components, such as CE or UL marks, frequently receive expedited approval and reduced testing requirements.
4. Collaborate with Consultants of Professional Quality
Consultants who are proficient in the Saber and SASO ecosystem can assist in preventing rejections and retesting, thereby saving both time and money.
Validity and Renewal of Saber Certificates PCoC Validity: One year; must be renewed annually
SCoC Validity: Must be applied for each shipment; one-time use.
Renewal Fees: Similar to the initial application (discounts may be granted based on prior evaluations)
The Reason for Mandatory Saber Certification
Saber certification is mandatory. The Saudi government mandates that imported products adhere to national safety and performance standards. The importation of products without the appropriate Saber documentation leads to the following:
Customs clearance delays
Penalties or fees
Return or rejection of merchandise
In summary, it is crucial to strategically allocate your Saber Certification budget.
The Saber certification process can be challenging to navigate, but businesses can prevent delays and concealed expenses by comprehending the cost structure. Account for all certification-related fees upfront, regardless of whether you are importing a single product or administering an entire shipment portfolio.
Always consider the following when preparing to enter the Saudi Arabian market:
Requirements for product classification and testing
PCoC fees that are assessed annually
SCoC charges per shipment
In addition, there are expenses such as document translation and consultancy.
A seamless, compliant, and cost-effective export process is guaranteed by proactive certification planning and accurate budgeting.
Sakshi Verma 
