Washington, D.C. — In a significant move to enhance consumer safety and streamline import processes, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has adopted a Final Rule requiring the electronic submission of certification information for regulated consumer products entering the U.S. market.

 The rule, approved by a unanimous 3-0-2 Commission vote, extends the general implementation timeline from 12 months to 18 months, providing businesses with additional time to comply.

The regulation introduces a comprehensive eFiling system aimed at modernizing the CPSC’s inspection protocols for imported goods. By mandating the electronic submission of certification details, the CPSC aims to more effectively identify and intercept unsafe products while enabling faster clearance for compliant shipments.

What is CPSC eFiling?

CPSC’s eFiling system is a digital process through which importers of consumer products electronically submit certification information to the agency at the time of entry. This information includes critical details about the product’s compliance with safety standards, the testing history, and the identity of the certifying party. The eFiling system replaces manual, paper-based submissions, allowing for faster, more accurate review and better targeting of high-risk imports. By using eFiling, the CPSC can conduct risk-based inspections at U.S. ports of entry, ultimately improving the efficiency of the import process while protecting consumers from hazardous products.

Implementation Timeline and Scope

The new requirements will become effective 18 months after publication in the Federal Register for most imported and domestically produced consumer products. For goods entering through a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) and later released for consumption or warehousing, the compliance deadline is set for 24 months from the publication date.

What the New eFiling Requirements Entail？

The eFiling program applies to all imported products subject to mandatory safety standards. Importers of these regulated items must electronically submit specific data elements at the time of entry, including:

• Identification of the finished product.

• Information on the party certifying compliance.

• Each consumer product safety rule under which the product has been certified.

• Date and place of manufacture.

• Details on the most recent product testing for compliance.

• Contact information for the party maintaining the test records.

These data points will enable the CPSC to better assess the risk level of incoming shipments, allowing for more efficient inspections. By targeting higher-risk products, the system reduces inspection and clearance times for compliant products, benefiting importers with strong safety records.

Impact on Importers and Domestic Producers

One of the notable changes under the new rule is the requirement for private labelers to certify domestically produced consumer products unless the manufacturer has already provided certification. This adjustment aligns CPSC’s certification rules with its broader testing and compliance requirements.

Industry Support and Participation

The CPSC’s eFiling program is the culmination of years of development, including alpha and beta testing phases conducted from 2016 to 2024. The commission is now inviting up to 2,000 additional importers to participate in the voluntary phase of the eFiling program. This preparatory stage allows businesses to refine their systems and processes before the rule becomes mandatory.

CPSC’s Commitment to Business Education and Resources

To support importers and trade partners, the CPSC has launched an extensive educational initiative. Businesses can access a comprehensive Document Library that offers guidance materials, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and recordings of past meetings. Additionally, the CPSC will host regular office hours, enabling importers to directly engage with expert staff and address any questions or concerns related to the eFiling process.

A Step Toward Safer Consumer Products

CPSC Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric described the eFiling rule as one of the most transformative measures the agency has implemented to modernize its import screening processes. “Ensuring that imported products are safe for Americans, especially our kids, is a priority for the agency,” Hoehn-Saric stated. “eFiling will strengthen CPSC’s ability to target unsafe products and prevent them from coming into the country and into consumers’ homes.”

With the new eFiling rule, the CPSC is taking a decisive step toward safeguarding American households from potentially hazardous products. By leveraging technology to streamline compliance verification, the agency aims to protect consumers while promoting efficiency for responsible importers. This dual approach is expected to foster a safer marketplace and enhance the overall transparency of global trade.

Conclusion

The CPSC's new eFiling rule marks a significant advancement in consumer product safety, modernizing the inspection process for imported goods and enhancing the agency’s ability to prevent unsafe products from entering the U.S. market. Businesses are encouraged to prepare for compliance by taking advantage of the CPSC’s educational resources and support systems. Companies like BACL are well-positioned to assist importers and manufacturers in meeting the new eFiling requirements. BACL’s expertise in testing, certification, and regulatory compliance can provide businesses with the guidance and support needed to navigate the updated regulations effectively.

Source:

https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2025/CPSC-Approves-Final-Rule-to-Implement-eFiling-for-Certificates-of-Compliance

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