SASO Approved Inspection Bodies: A Complete Guide

When it comes to exporting products to Saudi Arabia, compliance with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) is mandatory.

When it comes to exporting products to Saudi Arabia, compliance with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) is mandatory. SASO sets strict regulatory standards to ensure that imported goods meet the country’s safety, quality, and performance requirements. To achieve compliance, businesses must work with SASO approved inspection bodies, which are internationally recognized organizations authorized to verify and certify that products meet Saudi standards.

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This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about SASO approved inspection bodies, their role in international trade, and how to select the right certification partner.

What Are SASO Approved Inspection Bodies?
SASO approved inspection bodies are independent, third-party organizations accredited by SASO to conduct conformity assessments. Their primary responsibility is to verify that products, shipments, and documentation comply with Saudi technical regulations and standards.

These bodies play a crucial role in issuing Certificates of Conformity (CoC), which are mandatory for customs clearance and product entry into Saudi Arabia. Without a CoC from an approved inspection body, goods risk being rejected at the border.

The Role of SASO Approved Inspection Bodies in International Trade
Inspection bodies act as a bridge between global exporters and Saudi regulators. Their role includes:

Product Testing & Evaluation: Ensuring goods meet SASO technical regulations and sector-specific safety standards.

Factory Audits & Assessments: Verifying that manufacturing processes align with Saudi quality guidelines.

Shipment Inspections: Conducting pre-shipment checks to ensure products match declared documentation.

Issuance of Certificates of Conformity (CoC): A legal requirement for all regulated products entering Saudi Arabia.

Support with SABER Registration: Assisting exporters with product registration on the Saudi online conformity platform, SABER.

By working with a SASO approved inspection body, companies minimize compliance risks, avoid customs delays, and maintain smooth trade operations.

Why SASO Approval Matters
Only inspection bodies that are SASO-accredited are authorized to provide certifications valid in Saudi Arabia. Choosing an unapproved inspection agency could result in:

Shipment delays

Rejection at Saudi ports

Financial penalties

Loss of business credibility

Therefore, exporters must ensure they only collaborate with officially recognized inspection bodies listed under SASO’s accreditation system.

Key Services Provided by SASO Approved Inspection Bodies
1. Product Certification
Inspection bodies test and certify a wide range of products, including electronics, building materials, automotive parts, textiles, food items, and household appliances. Certification ensures that products meet safety, durability, and environmental standards.

2. Shipment Conformity Verification
Before goods are shipped, approved inspection bodies conduct pre-shipment inspections to verify compliance with SASO regulations. This step reduces the chances of cargo rejection at Saudi customs.

3. SABER Registration Support
The Saudi SABER system requires all products to be registered online before import. Approved inspection bodies guide exporters through the Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) processes.

4. Factory and Quality System Audits
For industries like construction materials, electrical goods, and automotive parts, SASO requires factory audits. Inspection bodies ensure that manufacturing facilities comply with ISO standards and Saudi technical regulations.

5. Continuous Compliance Monitoring
Beyond certification, inspection bodies offer continuous monitoring services to ensure that exporters remain compliant with SASO requirements for future shipments.

List of Leading SASO Approved Inspection Bodies
While the official SASO website provides an updated list of accredited inspection bodies, below are some of the most recognized organizations:

SGS (Société Générale de Surveillance) – A global leader in inspection and certification.

Intertek – Provides comprehensive SASO conformity assessment services.

TÜV Rheinland – Known for quality and safety testing worldwide.

Bureau Veritas – Offers inspection and certification across multiple industries.

UL (Underwriters Laboratories) – Specialized in product safety certifications.

QIMA – A leading inspection and compliance partner for Middle Eastern markets.

These organizations are authorized to issue the necessary conformity certificates that guarantee smooth customs clearance in Saudi Arabia.

Industries Requiring SASO Certification
Almost every industry exporting to Saudi Arabia requires compliance. Some key sectors include:

Electrical and Electronics: Cables, lighting, appliances, and IT equipment.

Automotive & Spare Parts: Tires, lubricants, and vehicle accessories.

Building Materials: Cement, steel, glass, and insulation materials.

Textiles & Apparel: Clothing, footwear, and fabrics.

Household Products: Furniture, detergents, cosmetics, and toys.

Food & Beverages: Processed foods, packaged goods, and additives.

How to Choose the Right SASO Approved Inspection Body
Selecting the right inspection partner is critical for successful certification. Key factors to consider:

Accreditation Status – Verify that the body is officially listed on the SASO accreditation platform.

Industry Expertise – Choose an inspection body with experience in your product category.

Global Presence – A body with offices in multiple countries can simplify logistics.

Processing Speed – Fast certification turnaround reduces shipping delays.

Customer Support – Strong after-certification support ensures future compliance.

Step-by-Step Process of Working with a SASO Approved Inspection Body
Product Submission: Provide technical documents, test reports, and specifications.

Testing & Evaluation: Inspection body verifies compliance with SASO standards.

Factory Audit (if required): Manufacturing site inspection for high-risk categories.

Pre-Shipment Inspection: Goods are checked before shipment.

Certificate Issuance: A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is granted for customs clearance.

SABER Registration: Product and shipment certificates are uploaded to the SABER portal.

Benefits of Working with SASO Approved Inspection Bodies
Seamless Customs Clearance – Avoid unnecessary delays at Saudi ports.

Risk Reduction – Minimize compliance errors and financial penalties.

Market Access – Ensure legal entry of goods into Saudi Arabia.

Reputation & Trust – Gain credibility with Saudi importers and distributors.

Long-Term Compliance – Stay updated with evolving SASO regulations.

Conclusion
Partnering with SASO approved inspection bodies is essential for businesses aiming to export products to Saudi Arabia. These organizations ensure that goods meet all regulatory, safety, and quality requirements set by SASO, enabling smooth customs clearance and sustainable trade operations. Exporters that invest in reliable certification partners not only protect their shipments but also strengthen their position in the competitive Saudi market.