What cable markings are required for USB-C chargers sold in EU?

USB-C chargers sold in the EU must display specific markings, including the CE marking, manufacturer information, power ratings, and safety symbols. These markings ensure compliance with the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR) and harmonised legislation. Proper marking placement and visibility are crucial for market access and consumer safety.

What specific markings must appear on USB-C chargers sold in the EU?

USB-C chargers require several mandatory markings to comply with EU regulations. The following table outlines the essential marking requirements:

Marking Type	Requirements	Purpose
CE Marking	Essential for products covered by harmonised legislation (Low Voltage Directive, EMC Directive)	Confirms conformity with EU safety standards
Manufacturer Information	Name, registered trade name or trademark, postal and electronic addresses	Enables consumer contact and accountability
Power Ratings	Input/output voltage, current, and frequency specifications	Ensures proper device compatibility and safety
Safety Symbols	Protection class indicators and relevant warnings	Guides consumers on proper usage
Product Identification	Type, batch, or serial numbers (GPSR requirement)	Enables product traceability and recalls

If you are a non-EU manufacturer, your USB-C chargers must display information about the responsible person within the EU. This includes the responsible person’s name and contact details, which can appear on the product, packaging, or accompanying documentation. Electronic addresses must enable direct consumer contact through email or dedicated sections of a website.

Where exactly do these markings need to be placed on USB-C cables and chargers?

The placement of markings follows a clear hierarchy of preferences to ensure maximum visibility and accessibility for consumers:

Primary Placement Options

Directly on the product: The main charging unit should display the CE marking, manufacturer information, and power ratings
Cable markings: Include manufacturer details and safety symbols along the cable body or near the connectors
Connector housings: Utilise space on USB-C connector housings for essential markings when cable space is limited

Alternative Placement (When Physical Constraints Apply)

Product packaging: When product size prevents direct marking
Accompanying documentation: Technical sheets or user manuals included with the product
Online product listings: For distance sales, all required information must appear clearly in product offers

Markings must remain easily visible and legible for consumers throughout the product’s lifecycle. They should withstand normal handling, storage, and transport conditions without becoming obscured or damaged. Aesthetic preferences do not qualify as valid justification for alternative placement.

What happens if your USB-C charger markings don’t meet EU requirements?

Non-compliant markings can trigger serious consequences that impact your business operations and market access. The regulatory landscape includes multiple layers of oversight. Organizations like BEUC (the European Consumer Organisation) supplement government enforcement by investigating complaints, testing products, and pushing for recalls when manufacturers fail to meet safety obligations.

Manufacturers who fail to meet safety standards face real consequences. The EU’s Safety Gate system publicly documents violations, creating a searchable record of companies whose products have been flagged as dangerous and removed from the market. This transparency mechanism serves as both a warning system for consumers and a powerful enforcement tool for regulators.

The following outlines the potential enforcement actions:

Immediate Enforcement Actions

Product recalls: Mandatory withdrawal of non-compliant products from the market
Sales bans: Prohibition of further sales until compliance is achieved
Financial penalties: Monetary sanctions imposed by national authorities
Customs detention: Products held at EU borders until marking compliance is verified

Detection and Monitoring Methods

Routine inspections: Regular market surveillance activities by national authorities
Consumer complaints: Reports from end-users regarding safety concerns or missing markings
Online monitoring: Automated systems scanning e-commerce platforms for compliance
Cross-border intelligence: Information sharing through the EU Safety Gate system

Compliance Response Requirements

Technical documentation: Authorities may request proof of conformity and marking justification
Product testing: Independent verification of electrical safety and EMC compliance
Corrective action plans: Detailed proposals for addressing marking deficiencies
Authorised representative cooperation: EU-based representatives must assist with investigations

If you have an authorised representative, they must cooperate with authorities during investigations and help implement corrective measures. The responsible person plays a crucial role in addressing marking violations by serving as your EU contact point for regulatory matters. Prompt responses to compliance issues help minimise penalties and maintain market access.

Proper USB-C charger markings protect both consumers and your business interests. Understanding placement requirements and compliance obligations helps you avoid costly enforcement actions while ensuring safe market access. At EARP, we help manufacturers navigate these complex marking requirements and maintain ongoing compliance with evolving EU regulations.

If you are looking for support or to learn more, contact our team of experts today