Importing machinery into Saudi Arabia requires SASO/SABER certification (mandatory). SASO is the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization, while SABER is its electronic certification platform (saber.sa); all imported goods must be registered on SABER. Regarding machinery: high-risk equipment (such as lifting or pressure equipment) requires both a PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity) and an SCoC (Shipment Certificate of Conformity), whereas general machinery (such as pumps or generators) classified as low-risk requires only an SCoC. As of October 1, 2025, the SCoC must be issued prior to customs clearance (per SANTIQ updates)—goods cannot clear customs without a SABER certificate.
I.
Difference between SASO and SABER
SASO: Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (responsible for setting standards and regulation); SABER: SASO’s electronic certification system (a one-stop platform connecting importers, certification bodies, and customs); Mandatory Implementation: Fully launched in 2019 (replacing paper CoC and pre-shipment inspections); Applicability: All imported goods (including machinery)—simply put: SASO sets the rules, while SABER is the execution platform (certification is handled directly via SABER).
II. Two Types of Certificates
PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity): Product-level certification; valid for 1 year; based on test reports and factory audits. SCoC (Shipment Certificate of Conformity): Issued individually for each shipment; mandatory for customs clearance. Effective October 2025: An SCoC must be issued for all imported products prior to customs clearance (per SANTIQ/Saudi Customs updates). Key takeaway for machinery procurement: PCoC covers the product itself, while SCoC covers the specific shipment (required for every consignment).
III.
Certification Modes Based on Risk Level
High Risk (lifting equipment, pressure equipment, heavy machinery, etc.): Requires PCoC + SCoC + factory audit (some items require the SQM Quality Mark). General Machinery (pumps, generators, etc.): SCoC is sufficient (requires Supplier Declaration of Conformity + test reports). Verification: Check the “List of Regulated Products” and technical regulations linked to HS codes on the official SASO website. Heavy Equipment: Subject to specific import requirements from the SASO Heavy Equipment Regulation Center (Certificate of Conformity must be issued by a SASO-accredited body).
Always verify the product’s risk level before deciding which certificates to obtain (avoid unnecessary expense by not applying for a PCoC for low-risk items).
IV. Application Process
Step 1: The Saudi importer (legal entity) registers an account on saber.sa (foreign manufacturers cannot register directly). Step 2: Select the product category and applicable standards (SASO, IEC, or ISO) based on the HS code. Step 3: Select a SASO-accredited Conformity Assessment Body (CAB)—e.g., the Saudi branches of SGS, BV, TÜV, or Intertek. Step 4: Submit test reports (from an accredited laboratory) and technical documentation. Step 5: After obtaining the PCoC, apply for an SCoC for each shipment. Processing Time: PCoC takes approximately 2–4 weeks; SCoC takes approximately 3–7 days (to be processed prior to shipment).
V. Key Pitfalls to Avoid
1. Importer Account (Must belong to a Saudi legal entity; arrange for a Saudi importer or agent to open it); 2. HS Code Updates (HS code adjustments in 2026 require re-registration for affected codes); 3. Certification Body Qualifications (Only CABs approved by SASO are recognized); 4. Labeling (Arabic labeling and nameplate requirements); 5. Processing Time (SCoC is mandatory for every shipment; do not wait until the goods reach the port to apply)—Saudi Machinery Certification: SASO/SABER compliance is mandatory; PCoC and SCoC requirements depend on risk level; requires Saudi importer account registration and issuance by an accredited CAB;
SCoC must be obtained prior to customs clearance starting October 2025.
