Processing EU EN71 certification reports for traditional children's toys
Date：2026-02-02 09:38:40 Classification
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Europe introduced the EN71 certification law for toys, aiming to technically regulate toys entering the European market through the EN71 standard, thereby reducing or preventing harm to children. Obtaining the EU EN71 certification report for traditional children's toys is a mandatory requirement for entering the EU market. Below is a complete guide:
I. Preliminary Confirmation: Applicable Standards and Core Testing Items
Traditional children's toys (such as plush toys, wooden building blocks, plastic puzzles, cloth stuffed toys, etc.) generally only need to complete the first three core tests of the EN71 standard. Some special toys require additional testing of corresponding modules:
1. EN71-1: Physical and Mechanical Properties
Tests include sharp edges, small parts, tensile strength, pressure, drop test, torque, and seam tensile strength, ensuring that the toy will not cause cuts, suffocation, or other physical injuries under normal use and foreseeable misuse; toys for children aged 0-3 years are strictly prohibited from containing small parts that can be swallowed.
2. EN71-2: Flame Retardant Performance
This test assesses the burning rate of materials. Plush/fabric toys and toys worn on the head require special attention to ensure the materials are not flammable and to prevent fire risks. For example, plush toys must pass a horizontal burning test (flame spread rate ≤ 100 mm/min).
3. EN71-3: Migration of Specific Elements (Heavy Metals)
This test measures the leaching of 19 migratable heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, chromium, arsenic, etc.) using a simulated saliva/gastric acid solution immersion test to ensure that children will not ingest excessive levels of harmful substances when biting or handling them.
Special Cases: If the toy contains chemical materials (such as modeling clay or paint), additional testing is required according to EN71-4 (Chemical Experiment Toys) and EN71-7 (Finger Paint Requirements).
II. Application Process
1. Document and Sample Preparation
The following materials are required in advance:
Company basic information, product manual/user manual
Bill of Materials (BOM), specifying the material, color, and brand/model of each component/pigment/adhesive
Test Samples: 2-5 complete sets of finished products (including all colors and accessories; different colors/materials require separate samples to avoid affecting chemical test results)
Complete the application form provided by the certification body
2. Select a Certification Body and Submit the Application
Select a testing body accredited by the EU and possessing both CNAS and CMA qualifications (such as Dezewei Testing). Submit the above-mentioned documents and samples, and confirm the testing fees and cycle.
3. Laboratory Testing
The certification body conducts comprehensive testing according to EN71 standards, including physical, chemical, and flame retardant tests, using professional equipment such as XRF heavy metal screening, tensile testing machines, and flammability testing instruments. If any non-compliance is found during the testing process, the certification body will provide rectification suggestions, and the product can be resubmitted for testing after rectification.
4. Obtaining Reports and Certificates
After passing the test, the testing organization will issue an EN71 test report. Once the company verifies that the report information (product model, test standard version) is correct, it can simultaneously apply for CE certification (EN71 is the core testing standard for toy CE certification). After obtaining the CE certificate, the CE mark can be affixed for entry into the EU market.
5. Document Archiving
Test reports, CE certificates, technical documents, etc., must be archived for at least 10 years in case of random inspections by EU customs or market supervision authorities.
III. Processing Time and Fees
Processing Time: Standard processing time is 5-7 business days; some agencies offer expedited services (7-10 business days for the entire process).
Fees: Basic fee is 800-2000 RMB, depending on:
1. Toy material/number of colors (most agencies offer free testing for the first 3 materials; additional materials incur additional fees).
2. Complexity of testing items (whether additional special modules are required).
3. Pricing strategy of the certification body.
IV. Notes
1. EN71 test reports have no fixed validity period and are valid indefinitely provided there are no changes to product design or EU regulations/directives. Buyer's specific requirements will prevail.
2. During EU customs inspections, importers must sign a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) stating that the product complies with EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC.
3. If the toy claims to be safe for food contact (e.g., a simulated dinner plate labeled as suitable for holding snacks), additional testing according to EU food contact material standard 10/2011/EU is required.
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