General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR): What You Need to Know
Effective 13 December 2024, the GPSR requires professional sellers in the EU to meet certain safety standards for their products, including providing specific product information. This ensures the safety of all products, whether new or secondhand, sold to consumers in the EU.
What Does This Mean for You?
Most Objects Are Out of Scope
The GPSR does not apply to:
Food or drinks.
Works of art, antiques, or collectibles with artistic, rare, historical, or scientific significance.
These exclusions mean most objects sold on Catawiki are unaffected.
Objects Potentially in Scope
Some objects may still fall under the GPSR. If you are a professional seller submitting items like lighting, cameras, audio equipment, toys, model trains, watches, or fashion, we recommend reviewing the GPSR carefully.
Your Role:
As the seller, it’s important to assess whether the GPSR applies to your objects and take the steps needed to comply.
What Information Do You Need to Provide?
If you determine that your object is in scope, you must provide the following details:
Manufacturer Information: Name and contact details (postal and email) of the manufacturer.
EU Responsible Person: If the manufacturer is outside the EU, provide the contact details of the EU representative.
Product Identification: Model number, type, or any specific identifier.
Safety Information: Any relevant safety warnings or instructions.
How to Submit Safety Information?
During object submission, include the required safety details in one or both of the following ways:
Images: Upload photos showing labels or packaging with relevant safety information.
Description: Add a "Safety Information" section in the object description that includes all required details.
Additionally, ensure a printed copy of the safety information is included in the package sent to the buyer.
We’re Here to Guide You
This page provides an overview of the GPSR’s key requirements to help you prepare. However, it is your responsibility to assess how the GPSR applies to your objects. If you need specific advice on compliance, we recommend consulting your legal counsel.
For general questions about product submissions, feel free to contact your assigned expert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. I’m based in the EU. Does the GPSR apply to me?
Yes, if you are a professional seller and your object falls under the GPSR, you must comply with its requirements. Remember, most objects on Catawiki are excluded from this regulation.
2. I’m based outside the EU. Does the GPSR still apply?
Yes, the GPSR applies to professional sellers worldwide if the items are sold to EU consumers and fall within its scope.
3. Where can I find the safety information required?
This information is typically found on the product, packaging, or accompanying documents. If unavailable, contact the manufacturer or distributor directly.
4. What if I don’t have all the required information for secondhand objects?
If you believe an item is in scope but lack full details:
Clearly state in the description that the object is secondhand and that some details are unavailable.
Include any safety information you do have.
5. Should I provide the factory name or the trademark for the manufacturer details?
Provide the name of the company or person marketing the product under their name, trademark, or logo, as defined by the GPSR.
Key Takeaways
Your Role as a Professional Seller: It's important for you to review whether the GPSR applies to your objects and ensure the necessary safety information is provided.
Most Objects Are Excluded: While many objects on Catawiki are unaffected, ensure you review the GPSR for any items that may be in scope.
We’re Here to Support: Use the Help Centre and your expert as resources for guidance during submission.