European conformity marking indicating a product meets EU safety, health, and environmental requirements.
When you see CE on a product, it means the manufacturer has declared that the product meets European safety rules. It does NOT mean the product was independently tested or certified — in many cases, the manufacturer simply self-declares compliance. CE is required to sell most products in Europe.
What this marking confirms
Mandatory for products covered by EU harmonization legislation. Products without CE marking cannot be placed on the EU market.
CE does NOT indicate high quality. It only confirms minimum safety and regulatory compliance.
Confirms the product meets EU safety requirements for its category, but the level of safety assurance varies — some products require independent testing, others only self-declaration.
Is this marking mandatory?
MandatoryMandatory for products covered by EU harmonization legislation. Products without CE marking cannot be placed on the EU market.
How to obtain this marking
- 1Identify applicable EU directives and regulations
- 2Determine if a Notified Body is required (for higher-risk products)
- 3Conduct conformity assessment (self-assessment or third-party)
- 4Compile technical documentation
- 5Draw up EU Declaration of Conformity
- 6Affix CE marking to product
- 7Keep documentation for 10 years
How to verify
Check the EU Declaration of Conformity. For products requiring a Notified Body, verify the 4-digit NB number on the marking. Search NANDO database for Notified Bodies.
Open verification portalCommon errors and misuse
The 'China Export' mark looks visually similar to CE but has different letter spacing. CE marking letters have specific proportions — the C and E are based on a circle with defined geometry.