Introduction
If you’re planning to export products to Saudi Arabia or already involved in international trade with the Kingdom, you’ve likely heard of Saber registration and Saber certification. While both are essential components of Saudi Arabia’s conformity assessment system, many businesses — especially new importers — often confuse the two.
Understanding the difference between Saber registration and certification is crucial to avoid delays, fines, or customs issues. This article explores the role, purpose, and process of each, helping you stay compliant with Saudi regulations and ensuring smoother product clearance.
What Is the Saber Platform?
Before diving into the differences, it’s important to understand the Saber system itself. Launched by SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization), Saber is an online platform that manages the registration, certification, and conformity assessment of products intended for sale or use in Saudi Arabia.
The goal is to ensure that imported and locally manufactured goods meet Saudi standards and safety regulations. Through Saber, businesses can obtain required conformity documents, track certification status, and process shipment approvals online — replacing the older, manual SASO Certificate of Conformity system.
What Is Saber Registration?
Saber registration is the first step in the process. It refers to the act of registering your product(s) and company details in the Saber system. This applies to all businesses wishing to sell or import products into Saudi Arabia — whether regulated or non-regulated.
During this stage, the product is classified according to its HS code (customs tariff code), and based on that, the system will determine whether the product requires further certification or not.
Key Features of Saber Registration:
Mandatory for all products (regulated and non-regulated)
Involves adding product details, HS codes, and descriptions
Determines whether certification is required
Product remains inactive in the system until certified (if needed)
Does not confirm product compliance alone
So in short, registration is the process of entering your product into the system — it’s like opening a file that needs to be completed with relevant documents later.
What Is Saber Certification?
Once a product has been registered, the next step — if applicable — is certification. Saber certification involves obtaining:
Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): A document that certifies that the product meets relevant Saudi technical regulations and standards.
Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): Issued per shipment and required at the time of customs clearance to confirm that the specific batch of goods complies with standards.
Certification usually requires working with a Notified Body (an accredited third-party organization) to review technical documents, conduct testing (if needed), and issue the required certificates.
Key Features of Saber Certification:
Applies only to regulated products
Requires supporting documents like test reports or factory audits
Mandatory for customs clearance
Needs annual renewal (for PCoC)
SCoC required for each shipment
So, while registration adds your product to the system, certification verifies its safety and compliance.
Saber Registration vs Certification: The Core Differences
| Feature | Saber Registration | Saber Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Product entry into system | Product compliance verification |
| Mandatory For | All products | Only regulated products |
| Involves | Adding product data, HS codes | Testing, conformity assessment, document submission |
| Conducted By | Importer or seller | Notified Body & applicant |
| Linked To | PCoC/SCoC process | Customs clearance |
| Validity | No expiration but needs updates | PCoC valid for 1 year, SCoC per shipment |
When Does Each Apply?
If you’re importing a non-regulated product: Only Saber registration is needed. Once completed, you can directly obtain the Shipment Certificate.
If you’re importing a regulated product: Both Saber registration and certification are required. You must first register the product and then proceed to obtain the Product Certificate before applying for a Shipment Certificate.
Why the Confusion Happens
The confusion between registration and certification often stems from the fact that both processes happen within the same Saber platform. For many businesses, it may appear as a single flow — but in reality, they are distinct steps with different documentation, requirements, and timelines.
Moreover, third-party service providers sometimes market both services together, adding to the misconception that they are interchangeable.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Assuming registration equals compliance: Registering your product doesn't mean it's approved for import. You must check if certification is required.
Wrong HS code usage: Using incorrect customs codes may result in unnecessary certification or delays. Always confirm your product classification.
Delaying SCoC: Don’t wait until your goods arrive at the port. The SCoC must be obtained before shipment clearance.
Conclusion
To successfully bring products into Saudi Arabia, businesses must understand the distinction between Saber registration and Saber certification. While registration is the gateway that introduces your product into the regulatory system, certification is the compliance checkpoint that allows it to pass through customs.
Getting both steps right is not just a legal necessity — it’s also a key strategy for avoiding import delays, rejected shipments, and financial losses. Whether you’re a new importer or an established manufacturer, clarity in this area will help streamline your operations and build trust with Saudi regulators and customers.
