How Indian Automotive Part Exporters Can Get SABER Certificates Through Testing Labs?

 India’s automotive industry is renowned for its strong manufacturing base, supplying parts and components to markets across the globe. One rapidly growing destination for Indian automotive exporters is Saudi Arabia, which heavily relies on imports to sustain its automotive aftermarket.

To ensure that imported products meet safety, environmental, and quality standards, Saudi Arabia mandates SABER certification for nearly all products, including automotive parts. For Indian exporters, this means that working with accredited testing labs is critical in achieving compliance.

This blog explores how Indian exporters of automotive components can obtain a SABER Certificate through certified testing labs, ensuring smooth entry into the Saudi market.

What is a SABER Certificate?

The SABER platform is an electronic gateway launched by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) to facilitate product certification. It is part of the Product Safety Program (SALEEM), which mandates that all regulated products conform to specific technical regulations before entering Saudi Arabia.

The SABER system manages two types of certificates:

  • Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): Verifies that a product complies with Saudi standards. It is valid for one year.

  • Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): Required for every shipment, confirming that the products in the shipment match the certified ones.

Why Indian Automotive Parts Require SABER Certification

Automotive parts are classified under regulated products in Saudi Arabia. Common categories include:

  • Brake pads, discs, and linings

  • Shock absorbers and suspension components

  • Tires and wheels

  • Filters and gaskets

  • Lighting and electrical parts

  • Seats, seatbelts, and safety devices

Saudi authorities require these products to meet SASO technical regulations to ensure vehicle safety, environmental compliance, and product reliability.

Without a valid SABER Certificate, Indian exporters risk:

  • Shipment delays or rejection at Saudi ports

  • Loss of customer trust and business

  • Regulatory penalties and product bans

Role of Testing Labs in the SABER Certification Process

SABER certification relies heavily on lab test reports to prove compliance with applicable standards. Indian automotive exporters must partner with SASO-approved or ISO 17025-accredited testing labs to:

  • Conduct conformity assessments

  • Generate lab reports as per SASO format

  • Provide technical support and documentation

  • Interface with Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs)

Testing labs ensure that your products meet the necessary safety, performance, and material specifications required by Saudi regulations.

Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Automotive Exporters to Obtain SABER Certificates

Step 1: Register the Product on the SABER Platform

The importer in Saudi Arabia must register the product on the SABER portal (https://saber.sa). Key product details such as category, HS code, brand, and technical specs must be submitted.

They must also select a SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Body (CAB).

Step 2: Identify Applicable Technical Regulations

Automotive parts fall under various SASO Technical Regulations, including:

  • SASO-TR-28: General Safety Requirements for Automotive Parts

  • SASO-TR-18: Brake Systems and Components

  • SASO-TR-49: Tires and Rubber Products

  • SASO-TR-57: Lighting Systems

Working with a testing lab helps determine which regulation applies to your specific product.

Step 3: Conduct Product Testing in Accredited Labs

Testing labs assess the product against performance, safety, and chemical standards. Common tests for auto parts include:

  • Tensile strength

  • Thermal resistance

  • Vibration and fatigue tests

  • Friction coefficient (for brake parts)

  • Flammability (for interior components)

  • Chemical composition (e.g., heavy metals, VOCs)

These labs generate detailed reports, which are submitted to the CAB via SABER.

Step 4: Obtain Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)

After reviewing the test results and technical documents, the CAB issues a PCoC. This certifies that the product complies with Saudi regulations and is valid for one year.

Step 5: Secure Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)

For every new shipment to Saudi Arabia, the importer must request an SCoC through the SABER platform. This certificate links the shipment to the previously approved PCoC, ensuring traceability and compliance at customs.

Key Benefits of Using Testing Labs in India

1. Cost Efficiency

Testing your products locally reduces logistics and certification costs compared to testing in Saudi Arabia.

2. Speed and Convenience

Indian testing labs can fast-track your certification process and provide direct communication in your time zone.

3. Expertise in Automotive Standards

Established labs in India understand SASO’s automotive regulations and can provide compliance advisory services.

4. ISO 17025 Accreditation

Many Indian labs meet international accreditation standards, making their reports valid for SABER certification.

Top Indian Labs for Automotive SABER Certification

Indian exporters should work with reputable and SASO-recognized labs, such as:

  • TÜV SÜD India

  • SGS India Pvt. Ltd.

  • Intertek India

  • Bureau Veritas India

  • METS Laboratories

Ensure that your selected lab offers SASO-compliant testing protocols and can issue reports aligned with the SABER process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Incorrect product categorization on the SABER portal

  • Submitting outdated or incomplete lab reports

  • Choosing unaccredited or non-SASO-recognized labs

  • Missing SCoC documentation for each shipment

Working closely with a lab that understands SABER regulations minimizes these risks and ensures smooth certification.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Certification Journey

  • Start early: The testing and approval process can take several weeks.

  • Bundle similar products: Group parts with the same material specs under one certificate.

  • Maintain documentation: Keep a digital record of test reports, declarations, and certificates.

  • Train your compliance team: Familiarize your internal team with the SABER platform and CAB procedures.

Final Thoughts

The SABER Certificate is a non-negotiable requirement for Indian exporters aiming to supply automotive parts to Saudi Arabia. As the Saudi market grows and tightens its safety regulations, ensuring compliance through accredited testing labs is no longer optional — it’s essential.

By choosing the right lab partner, staying updated with technical regulations, and following a clear certification roadmap, Indian automotive exporters can unlock greater opportunities in the Middle East’s thriving aftermarket sector.

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