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Legislation can be a mine field of problems and issues that can adversely effect the smooth execution of any outsourcing or global purchasing strategy. It's difficult to establish a starting point and more often than not, even more difficult to ascertain which legislation relates to you. A further complication is the interpretation of the legislation which can only be solved with experience of working with such legislation over a long period of time. If you do not know what your compliance requirements are you run the risk of your products being stopped at customs. It is therefore important that the proper documentation, in the correct language, is made available to the authorities.

Over the years at S4S, we have come across many misconceptions relating to import and export legislation including:

  • it will not affect my products or services
  • it is likely to be similar to the legislation in my country
  • it is easy to obtain and understand
  • it will be available in my language

Under no circumstance should you ever assume any of these points and we strongly advise that you always obtain professional advice relating to any legislation.

All countries have primary legislation and secondary legislation. Primary legislation enables the development of specific legislation; it addresses general areas. Secondary legislation addresses specific issues.

In the UK, primary legislation is an Act of Parliament and secondary legislation is a Statutory Instrument. In other countries these may be known as Royal Decrees, Decrees, Orders, Ordinances and Regulations for example.

Legislation is usually published in an official government document. In the UK it's called 'The Daily List' and is published by The Stationery Office. In other countries it may be called 'Official Journal' or 'Government Gazette' for instance.

The European Union by virtue of its nature issues legislation that has to be adopted by the Member States. These are called Directives, Decisions, Regulations, Resolutions and others. The intent is that all the Member States then have the same law, thereby removing any legal barriers within the community.

When your products or services cross international barriers, , they will have to comply with laws, regulations and other technical requirements. You need to ensure you have considered the following areas:

  • Regulations
  • Legislation
  • Standards
  • Testing
  • Certification
  • Environment
  • Packaging
  • Language

Obviously, these issues have to be identified, and fully complied with in advance of any importing or moving products from one market to another. Failure to do so will result in your products being impounded at great expense.

What is the definition of a Technical Regulation?

"A Technical Regulation is a document which lays down product characteristics or their related processes and production methods, including the applicable administrative provisions, with which compliance is mandatory. It may also include or deal exclusively with terminology, symbols, packaging, marking or labeling requirements as they apply to a product, process or production method".

How can S4S help me with my legislation problems?

At S4S we find out what legislation or regulations may affect your products and services and how this relates to the outsourcing or purchasing strategy that has been adopted. We search and find the relevant legislation or technical regulation, translate the document, extract the relevant sections and explain what effect it is going to have on you as the importer.

Legislation is changing all the time. At S4S we have access to all relevant legislation and technical regulations ensuring, as far as possible, the swift, cost effective and trouble free importation of a wide range of industrial or consumer goods. We can also arrange all necessary transportation, logistics and warehousing of your stock or components.

What next?

If you are considering outsourcing any production or looking to import products in to the UK, you need to get advice. Call us at S4S via our contact us page and we will be able to assist you in your planning or execution.

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