UKCA and CE labels – which is relevant for UK-based businesses?

This piece is intended as a guide only and we recommend that potential clients check any legal marking requirements for their own products.

Ensuring compliance with industry standards is crucial for businesses selling products in the UK and EU. High-quality CE labels and UKCA labels play a crucial role in demonstrating that your products meet the safety, health and environmental requirements necessary for selling them in these regulated markets.

What is a CE Label?

The CE mark (Conformité Européenne which translates to “European Conformity”) indicates that a product complies with EU health, safety and environmental standards. It is mandatory for many products sold in the European Economic Area (EEA), including:

Electronics
Medical devices
Machinery

A high-quality CE label must be visible, legible and permanent, ensuring easy identification by authorities and consumers.

What is a UKCA Label?

The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark is the UK’s equivalent of the CE mark, used for products sold in England, Scotland and Wales. Introduced after Brexit, it signifies compliance with UK product safety regulations. Products requiring UKCA markings include:

Construction materials
Gas appliances
Pressure equipment
Medical devices

Like CE labels, UKCA labels must be clearly displayed and meet strict durability standards.

Does a UK-Based Business Need CE Labels or UKCA Labels?

The answer depends on where your products are sold:

For the UK market: UKCA marking is required (with some exceptions where CE marks are still accepted until 2025).

For the EU market: CE marking remains mandatory.

Businesses selling in both regions may need both labels on their products. Always check the latest government guidelines to ensure compliance with them.

The Regulations of UKCA and CE Labels – What Needs to Be Included

Both CE and UKCA labels must include specific information to meet legal requirements:

CE Label Requirements:

Determine applicable directives – Identify which EU directives/regulations apply to the product.
Ensure product compliance – Verify that the product meets all essential health and safety requirements through testing and assessments.
Conduct conformity assessment – If required, involve a notified body for certification and include its identification number with the CE mark.
Affix the CE Marking – Place the CE mark visibly, legibly and indelibly on the product or packaging (minimum height of 5mm).
Prepare a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) – Draft and sign a DoC stating the product meets all relevant EU requirements.
Maintain a technical file – Compile and retain documentation on design, manufacturing and conformity for authorities.
Fulfil additional obligations – Ensure importers/distributors verify compliance, provide an EU point of contact and maintain traceability.

UKCA Label Requirements:

- Applicability – UKCA replaces CE marking for most products in Great Britain, but some goods can still use CE marking under certain conditions.
- Conformity assessment – Products must meet UK regulations, either through self-assessment or third-party evaluation, with a UK declaration of conformity.
- Marking requirements – Must be visibly placed on the product (or packaging/docs if not possible), at least 5mm tall and in a proportional, legible format.

Responsibilities – Manufacturers: Ensure compliance, apply marking, and draft declaration. Importers/Distributors: Verify compliance and provide correct documentation.

Transition period – CE marking remains accepted for most goods in Great Britain for an indefinite extended period, with exceptions for certain products.
Sector-specific rules – Some regulations (e.g. EMC, electrical safety) may have additional UKCA requirements.
Northern Ireland exception – UKCA is not required. CE or UKNI markings apply instead, depending on the product and assessment process.

Top Industries That Use UKCA and CE Labels

Several industries rely on these compliance marks to ensure product safety and market access:

Medical and Healthcare

Medical devices and healthcare equipment must meet stringent safety and performance standards to ensure the protection of patients and healthcare professionals. The CE mark is mandatory for medical devices in the EU, while the UKCA mark is required for the UK market. Products such as surgical instruments, diagnostic machines and implants undergo rigorous testing to ensure they comply with EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and UK Medical Devices Regulations. Non-compliance can lead to severe consequences, including product bans or legal action, making the CE and UKCA marks of trust on medical equipment labels.

Electronics

Electronics manufacturers must ensure that their products meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), low-voltage (LVD) and radio equipment directives (RED). The CE and UKCA marks on electronics labels certify that devices, such as smartphones, household appliances and IT equipment, are safe for consumers, thereby reducing the risks of electrical hazards, interference, or data breaches. Compliance ensures seamless market access across Europe and the UK, preventing costly recalls and enhancing brand credibility.

Construction

Construction materials, including steel, cement, glass and insulation products, must comply with EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and UK building standards. The CE and UKCA marks on construction labels verify that materials meet fire safety, structural integrity and environmental sustainability requirements. Non-compliant products can lead to construction failures, legal liabilities, or project delays, making certification essential for manufacturers and suppliers.

Toys and Childcare Products

Toys and childcare items undergo rigorous safety testing to prevent choking hazards, exposure to toxic materials and mechanical risks. The CE and UKCA marks confirm compliance with the EU Toy Safety Standards (EN 71) and the UK Toy Safety Regulations. Manufacturers must ensure products are child-safe, including proper safety labelling and durability testing, to avoid recalls or legal penalties.

Industrial Machinery

Industrial equipment, such as manufacturing machines, conveyor systems and power tools, must meet EU Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC) and UK regulations. The CE and UKCA marks ensure workplace safety by verifying that machinery has proper guards, emergency stops and risk assessments. Non-compliance can result in accidents, fines, or market bans.

Automotive and Aerospace

Automotive components and aerospace parts must meet stringent safety and performance standards. The CE and UKCA marks on aerospace labels ensure compliance with EU and UK vehicle safety regulations. In the aerospace industry, critical parts must also meet EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) and UK CAA standards to ensure airworthiness and passenger safety.

Customised CE and UKCA Label Solutions

Every business has unique labelling needs, but there are many solutions to providing suitable and durable CE and UKCA labels. Ensure compliance in the UK and EU markets with durable labels by GSM Graphic Arts. Our labels:

Can be produced in a range of materials – Vinyl, polyester, polycarbonate, anodised aluminium or etched stainless steel to withstand all environmental conditions
Have flexible fixing options – Either a permanent self-adhesive backing or fixing holes to ensure that your labels meet the required specifications
Can be customised – Size, colour, material and finish can all be customised to fit your business

Partnering with GSM Graphic Arts ensures your markings meet all legal and industry standards.

Want to discuss your options for CE and UKCA labels? Speak to one of our experts today.

Talk to us about CE and UKCA labels

FAQs

Can I use both CE and UKCA marks on my product?

Yes, if you’re selling in both the UK and EU markets, ensure both marks meet their respective regulations.

What happens if my product doesn’t have the correct label?

Non-compliance can result in fines, product recalls, or being barred from sale in the UK or EU markets.

How long can I use the CE mark in the UK?

CE marking is accepted in the UK indefinitely after a decision by the UK Government. UKCA markings may become mandatory in the future, so stay up to date with current legislation.

Do I need a new assessment for UKCA if I already have CE certification?

Not always, but UKCA requires approval from a UK-recognised body, which may differ from EU-notified bodies.

Where should I place the UKCA/CE label?

It should be clearly visible and legible on the product itself, its packaging, or accompanying documentation.