SABER Shipment Registration & Exemption Requests

When importing goods into Saudi Arabia, compliance with local regulations is a critical step in ensuring the smooth entry of shipments through Saudi Customs. Every product entering the Kingdom must be registered and approved under the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) system, primarily through the Saber platform.

Process for Obtaining the Saber Shipment Certificate (SCoC)

Before submitting a shipment certificate request, ensure every item is properly linked to its certified product entry. Any mismatch in technical data or HS codes can cause clearance issues.

• Verification of Product Compliance: If regulated, ensure a valid Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) exists for the same product and country of origin.
• Preparation of Final Invoice: The commercial invoice must accurately reflect product details, quantities, HS codes, and values.
• Saber Registration: Register the shipment on Saber with precision. Mistakes here lead to shipment rejection.
• Coordination with CAB: Submit the registered shipment to the relevant Conformity Assessment Body for review.
• Fees & Issuance: Pay government fees to issue the Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) on Saber.
• Non-Regulated Products (Note): These require product registration and a Self-Declaration of Conformity before completing normal shipment registration.

Recommendations for Accurate Submissions & Exemptions

Ensuring accuracy requires strategic preparation and a full understanding of regulatory expectations (SASO, SFDA, and Customs):

• Understand the Framework: Gain clarity on requirements early to prevent incorrect assumptions.
• Evaluate Exemption Eligibility: Assess early if goods qualify to avoid wasting time on unsupported applications.
• Standardize Documentation: Ensure exporters, importers, and forwarders use identical descriptions and HS codes.
• Maintain Technical Files: Keep test reports and datasheets ready to strengthen your justifications.
• Clear Justifications: Use concise technical reasoning supported by documents for exemption requests.
• Verify Communication: Align all parties to avoid miscommunication and data conflicts.
• Seek Expert Review: A pre-submission review by a specialist reduces errors and speeds up approval.

Useful Resources