EU Authorised Representative
What is an Authorised Representative?
Under the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) (EU) 2023/988, businesses selling consumer products in the EU must designate an Authorised Representative based in the EU. This requirement applies to non-EU manufacturers, importers, and online sellers on platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Shopify.
An Authorised Representative (AR) is a legal entity based in the EU that acts on behalf of non-EU businesses to ensure compliance with GPSR. Without an appointed AR, businesses risk:
- Customs clearance issues—products may be blocked from entering the EU.
- Marketplace removals—Amazon, eBay, and other platforms may delist non-compliant products.
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Regulatory penalties—fines and legal action due to non-compliance.
What is the Difference Between an Authorised Representative and a Responsible Person?
While an Authorised Representative (AR) and a Responsible Person (RP) both play critical roles in ensuring regulatory compliance, they serve different functions depending on the type of product and the applicable EU legislation.
The Authorised Representative primarily acts on behalf of a non-EU manufacturer to fulfill obligations such as maintaining technical documentation, assisting with corrective actions, and communicating with EU authorities. A Responsible Person, on the other hand, is designated under the GPSR and is directly responsible for ensuring that products meet safety and compliance requirements before being placed on the EU market.
In short: the AR acts as the manufacturer’s legal agent for compliance matters, while the RP ensures that specific regulatory obligations tied to product safety and information are properly fulfilled.
Can an Authorised Representative act as an EU Responsible Person?
Yes, the Authorised Representative can act as the Responsible Person. When you order our certification service, EaseCert’s Germany office will act as both your Authorised Representative (AR) and Responsible Person (RP).
Choosing an AR that can also act as an RP ensures a streamlined compliance process with fewer points of contact and greater regulatory oversight, helping your products meet EU market requirements efficiently and reliably.
When is an Authorised Representative / Responsible Person Required?
GPSR mandates that an EU-based entity must be responsible for product compliance. If an importer is based outside the EU, for example in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, or China, an EU Authorised Representative & Responsible Person must be appointed to fulfill this role.
Who Needs an Authorised Representative / Responsible Person?
If your company is located outside the EU and sells consumer products directly to EU consumers, you must appoint an Authorised Representative / Responsible Person. This applies to:
- Amazon, eBay, Etsy, or Shopify sellers shipping products to the EU.
- Manufacturers and importers selling products to Europe.
- Direct-to-consumer online stores shipping to the EU.
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Dropshipping and fulfillment businesses selling to EU consumers.
Responsibilities of an Authorised Representative / Responsible Person
An Authorised Representative / Responsible Person serves as your official compliance contact in the EU, ensuring that all necessary safety and regulatory requirements are met. The responsibilities include:
- Regulatory Compliance & Documentation – Maintaining safety records and technical files.
- Market Surveillance Support – Handling inquiries, recalls, and investigations.
- Legal Representation in the EU – Serving as the compliance point of contact.
- GPSR Labeling & Traceability – Ensuring proper product labeling and documentation.
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Customs & Marketplace Compliance – Preventing import restrictions and platform delistings.
Why Choose EaseCert?
With our certification services, we offer a simple, all-inclusive solution - with no subscriptions, no hidden fees, or additional charges. We are headquartered in New York City, with our EU Authorised Representative / Responsible Person service based in Germany to ensure full compliance with GPSR regulations.
What’s Included?
- Official EU Authorised Representative Representation – Ensures full GPSR compliance by acting as your EU Responsible Person.
- Streamlined Registration Process – We handle the entire process, from documentation review to linking your product in the EU Safety Gate Portal.
- Registered EU Address – Mandatory for legal and regulatory compliance.
- Market Surveillance & Customs Support – Assistance with safety inquiries and documentation.
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GPSR Compliance Guidance – Expert support to meet EU safety requirements.