A Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) in Saudi Arabia is generally valid only for the specific shipment (consignment) for which it is issued. While the PCoC (Product Certificate) is valid for one year, the SCoC must be obtained for each individual import and ceases to be valid once the cargo clears customs.

A Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) typically takes 2–3 working days to be issued once all documentation (invoice, packing list, B/L) is submitted via the Saber platform and validated. For some, it can be nearly instant, though complex, non-compliant, or missing documentation can extend this process significantly.

The government fee for a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) on the Saber Platform is generally 402.5 SAR per shipment which includes VAT.

This is a mandatory, per-shipment cost required for customs clearance in Saudi Arabia, separate from product registration (PCoC) fees.

Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) on the SABER platform is a mandatory document for importing regulated goods into Saudi Arabia, confirming each specific shipment complies with technical regulations.

Factory audit are valid for anytime between 1 to 3 years depending on type of Technical Audit done for the Factory. 

A factory audit report is typically delivered 1 to 3 business days (24–72 hours) after the on-site audit is completed, according to most third-party inspection services. For detailed, complex, or social compliance audits (like SMETA), reporting may take slightly longer, often within two weeks.

A factory audit generally takes 1–3 days on-site for physical inspections, while online (remote) audits can be completed faster, often within hours.

A physical factory audit is generally necessary for new suppliers, high-risk components, or initial certifications to verify manufacturing capabilities. However, online audits are a highly effective, cost-saving alternative for routine check-ins, monitoring, or when travel is restricted. A hybrid approach using online tools for documentation and periodic on-site visits for physical walkthroughs is now common.

A factory audit for SABER certification costs around USD 900 , depending on the audit complexity and chosen certification body (CB)

A Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) for Saudi Arabia is valid for one year from the date of issuance. It is required to be renewed annually to ensure imported or local products remain compliant with SASO technical regulations.

A factory audit report is not mandatory for all products to obtain a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) for Saudi Arabia but it is required for specific, high-risk, or regulated product categories.

Documents Required for PCoC are as below

• Test Reports: Accredited laboratory reports (e.g., ISO 17025) verifying compliance with SASO standards.
• Technical Documentation: Detailed product specifications, drawings, and component lists.
• Product Photos & Manuals: Clear photos showing the product, packaging, and marking, including Arabic instruction manuals.
• Risk Assessment Report: Required to determine the conformity assessment type.
• Commercial License: Valid Saudi commercial registration.
• Declaration of Conformity: Signed statement from the manufacturer indicating product safety and compliance.
• Quality Documents: ISO 9001 certificates or factory audit reports (particularly for high-risk products) 
• Other Documents: Other documents might be required depending on the product

The total cost for arranging a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) from a certification body varies widely depending on the product type, its complexity 

PCoC Fee: Approximately 1200 SAR to 1,800 SAR per product certificate excluding testing 

Sadad for Saber : SAR 500 + VAT  

If all documents are available PCOC can be issued in 2-3 days provided the documentation are in order and all required information available.

An HS Code (Harmonized System Code) is a globally standardized 6-digit numerical method developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Used by over 212 countries, it identifies goods for customs, duties, taxes, and trade statistics, with most nations adding extra digits for specific local regulations.

A “QM Certificate” generally refers to either the Saudi Quality Mark (SQM), a mandatory or voluntary license confirming products meet SASO standards, or Quality Matters (QM) Certification, which validates the quality of online education courses. It certifies compliance with specific high-level standards (product safety or educational design)

The Saber Certificate is an electronic document issued through the Saber platform, a system launched by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO).

Its purpose is to ensure that all imported and locally manufactured products meet the mandatory Saudi technical regulations and safety standards before being allowed into the Saudi market.

Essentially, Saber helps the Saudi government protect consumers from unsafe or non-compliant products while also streamlining the import clearance process.

For importers, obtaining Saber certification is a compulsory step, products without it cannot clear Saudi Customs or be sold locally. 

In simple terms:

Saber is proof that your products meet Saudi safety and quality requirements.

Registering for Saber is a straightforward online process. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit the Saber platform: Go to the official saber website 
2. Create an account: Register as an importer or local manufacturer. You will need a valid Commercial Registration (CR) number and other business details.
3. Add your products: Enter detailed product information such as category, brand, and model.
4. Select the relevant technical regulation: Saber will suggest the appropriate regulation based on your product type.
5. Choose a Certification Body: Pick one of the SASO-approved CBs to review your documentation and testing reports.
6. Obtain the PCoC: Once approved, you’ll receive the Product Certificate of Conformity electronically.
7. Apply for the SCoC: Before every shipment, request a Shipment Certificate of Conformity through the same platform.

If you are unsure about the process, Express Arabia can assist with every step, from Saber registration and documentation to coordination with Certification Bodies, ensuring a smooth and compliant import experience.

The Saber system issues two main types of certificates, depending on the stage of your import process:

a) Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): This is a product-level certificate that confirms your product meets all relevant Saudi technical regulations. It ensures the product has been tested and verified by a SASO-approved Certification Body (CB).

• It is required once per product (not per shipment).
• It remains valid for one year and can be renewed.
• Without a valid PCoC, you cannot apply for the shipment certificate.

b) Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): After obtaining the PCoC, you must get a Shipment Certificate (SCoC) for every shipment entering Saudi Arabia.

• This certificate verifies that the shipment contains only products covered by valid PCoCs.
• It is generated through the Saber platform and is mandatory for customs clearance.
• Each new shipment requires a separate SCoC, even if the products are the same. 

A Certification Body (CB) is an independent organization approved by SASO to evaluate products and issue Product Certificates of Conformity (PCoCs).

The Certification Body checks:

• Product testing reports and technical documentation
• Compliance with relevant Saudi technical regulations
• Manufacturing quality and labeling standards

Only CBs that are authorized by SASO can issue valid PCoCs in the Saber system.

Importers can choose their preferred CB directly through the Saber portal based on product type and region.

Examples: TÜV, SGS, Intertek, and Bureau Veritas are some of the recognized Certification Bodies approved by SASO.

The Supplier Declaration of Conformity (SDOC) is a simplified type of conformity declaration used for low-risk products that are not regulated under any specific Saudi technical regulation.

Instead of going through third-party testing, the supplier or manufacturer self-declares that their product meets all applicable Saudi standards.

The SDOC must be uploaded into the Saber system for approval, and the product can then be cleared for sale or import.

Yes, individuals can also obtain a Saber certificate, depending on the purpose of import.

If you are importing goods for personal use, you can apply for a Saber certificate under your name. However, the process is generally simpler and may not require the same level of documentation as commercial imports.

For business or resale purposes, you must register as an importer using a valid Commercial Registration (CR) issued in Saudi Arabia. This ensures your products are properly tracked and meet local regulations.

In both cases, products must still comply with SASO standards, and the Saber system will determine whether a PCoC or SDOC (Supplier Declaration of Conformity) is required.

The Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) is the foundation of the Saber certification process.

It confirms that your product complies with SASO’s technical regulations, which may include tests for safety, quality, efficiency, or labeling requirements, depending on the product type.

To obtain a PCoC:

1. You (the importer or manufacturer) register the product on the Saber platform
2. You select the relevant technical regulation for your product category.
3. You choose an approved Certification Body (CB) that will review your documents and product test reports.
4. Once approved, the PCoC is issued electronically through the Saber system.

The PCoC is valid for one year and must be renewed annually for continuous import or sale of that product in Saudi Arabia.

Documents are attested by the Chamber of Commerce (CoC) in Saudi Arabia to legally validate business and commercial documents, ensuring they are authentic, approved by registered entities, and compliant with local regulations. This process is crucial for verifying signatures, preventing forgery, and ensuring documents are accepted by government entities, banks, and foreign authorities. 

Online chamber attestation in Saudi Arabia is a digital service allowing companies to verify official business documents, such as contracts, invoices, and authorization letters, through portals like the Riyadh Chamber “My Business Portal”. It eliminates the need to visit physical offices, offering faster, 24/7, and legally binding authentication.

A Delivery order collection letter is a letter attested by Chamber by the importer, this letter mentions the individual or broker company details who will be collecting the delivery order from shipping line on behalf of the customer.

A Delivery Order (D/O) in Saudi Arabia sea freight is a critical, mandatory document issued by a carrier or freight forwarder to authorize the release of imported cargo from a port or bonded warehouse to the consignee. It confirms all freight charges are paid and customs clearance procedures are complete, acting as the “green light” to pick up goods.

SADAD is the national Electronic Bill Presentment and Payment (EBPP) system in Saudi Arabia, owned by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA). It acts as a centralized, secure platform that allows individuals, businesses, and government entities to pay bills and fees instantly through bank channels like ATMs, mobile apps, and internet banking.

Exporting oil-based items (like lubricants) from Saudi Arabia requires compliance with SASO technical regulations, including a Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity and a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for customs clearance. Key requirements include registering on the SABER platform, obtaining a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC), and securing a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) for every shipment.  

Import requirements depend on the HS CODE, for some HS CODE it may be Regulated or Non Regulated 

A Mawani invoice is an electronic Invoice issued by the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) for fees associated with shipping, storage, and port services within Saudi Arabia.

1. Open your Saudi bank account 
2. Go to “SADAD” or “SADAD Bills” section
3. Choose “One-time Payment” or “Pay New Bill”.
4. Select 020 (Zakat and Tax Authority) 
5. Enter the SADAD Number 
6. Payment amount will appear confirm it is same as Bayan and Make Payment 

Demurrage is a fee charged in shipping and logistics when cargo or containers are not picked up or unloaded from a port/terminal within the agreed “free time”. It serves as a penalty for exceeding allowed storage time, ensuring equipment is returned quickly. 

Detention is a fee charged by shipping lines when a container is held outside the port/terminal for longer than the agreed free time. It occurs when a container is picked up but not returned empty to the designated depot, incentivizing timely loading/unloading and return.

A Nil Container Deposit Letter (often called a Container Guarantee Letter or Letter of Indemnity) is a legal document provided by an importer/consignee, or freight forwarder to a shipping line or agent, guaranteeing the safe and timely return of shipping containers in exchange for skipping the upfront, refundable cash deposit.

A container security deposit in customs clearance is a temporary, refundable fee paid to shipping lines to guarantee the safe, timely return of the empty container and to cover potential damage or cleaning costs. While it varies significantly by location and shipping line, it is typically charged based on the size of the container (20ft vs. 40ft) and the container type (dry vs. reefer).

Tabadul (Saudi EDI Company) fees in Saudi Arabia primarily include a charge of SAR 30 per Delivery Order (D/O), an import service fee of SAR 5 per container, and various electronic service charges (e.g., SAR 15 per airway bill for custom data transfer). 

Key Tabadul Fees 

• Delivery Order Fees: The standard charge for linking delivery orders to customs systems is SAR 30 per D/O.
• Import Service Fee (ISF): A charge of SAR 5 per container is applied for shipments, such as those at Dammam port.
• Transfer of Customs Electronic Data (TED): SAR 15 per Airway Bill (AWB).
• Electronic Invoice: SAR 10 per AWB.
• Barcoded AWB label processing: SAR 15 per AWB.  

Temporary import clearance is a customs procedure allowing goods to enter a country duty-free and tax-free for a limited time (often up to 12-24 months) for specific purposes, such as trade shows, repairs, or professional use, with the requirement they are re-exported. It often involves using a bond, deposit, or an ATA Carnet (commonly known as a “merchandise passport”) to guarantee that the goods will not remain in the country permanently.

A nil (or zero) container deposit policy removes the upfront security payment typically required by shipping lines from importers for releasing containers, reducing administrative costs, improving cash flow, and easing logistics burdens. This approach is frequently adopted by shipping lines.

Fasah is a Saudi Arabian electronic platform that facilitates import and export by integrating various government and private entities involved in customs clearance.

It simplifies and accelerates cross-border trade by reducing paperwork, allowing for online document submission, and providing services like shipment tracking. The Arabic name, “Fahes Al-Muwakaba Al-Saudia Lil-Tanfeedh Al-Jumruki,” translates to “Saudi Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) for Customs Clearance”.

From Fasah.sa website Importer/Exporter can also authorize brokers for import/export clearance

For high volume LCL cargo Delivery order charges billed by local agents are on higher side and same goes to the port storage and inspection invoice. It is always better to import in FCL if cargo more than 10 Cbm , Always better to compare the pricing for LCL or FCL. 

A standard 20-foot container holds approximately 33 CBM (cubic meters), while a 40-foot standard container holds roughly 66–67 CBM. A 40-foot High Cube (HC) container offers more capacity, at roughly 72–76 CBM 

A Master Bill of Lading (MBL) is a document issued by an ocean carrier or shipping line to a freight forwarder/NVOCC, acting as the primary contract for transporting consolidated cargo. It covers the entire container,

Main MBL Types

Original B/L: Physical, negotiable, and transferable documents required to release cargo.

Surrendered/Telex Release: An express release where the original MBL is surrendered to the carrier at origin, allowing faster cargo release to the destination agent.

Sea Waybill: A non-negotiable document where the cargo is automatically released to the consignee without requiring a physical document, speeding up logistics.  

Non palletized cargo refers to goods loaded directly onto a truck, container, or warehouse floor rather than being stacked on shipping pallets. This method is often used to maximize cargo volume for light, bulky, or uniquely shaped items, though it increases handling time and labor costs compared to palletized shipping 

There are 9 main classes of dangerous goods. Dangerous goods can present 1 or more of the hazards represented by Class 1 to 9 with some classes split into divisions.

You can find safety data sheets (SDS) available from the manufacturer for specific chemicals and dangerous goods. They are a useful tool for people to ensure that they are sending the goods under the correct classification. Contact the manufacturer if you don’t have an SDS for a dangerous good. 

A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) now more commonly called a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a technical document providing detailed information on hazardous chemicals, including their properties, health effects, handling precautions, and emergency proceduresIt is used to ensure safety in workplaces, covering identification, fire-fighting, accidental release, and personal protection 

SFDA certificate is an official document issued by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) confirming that products—specifically food, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, and feed—comply with Saudi safety, quality, and technical regulations. It is a mandatory requirement for importing these regulated goods into Saudi Arabia 

Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are 11 internationally recognized, standardized rules published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) that define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in shipping transactions. They clarify who manages transportation, insurance, customs clearance, and when risk transfers, reducing trade disputes.