8 Key Criteria to Consider When Choosing a CE Test Laboratory
Selecting the right test laboratory is one of the most critical decisions in the CE conformity assessment process. The laboratory you choose directly impacts the validity of test results, the speed of certification, and the successful placement of your product on the EU market.
Below are the 8 key criteria you should carefully evaluate when choosing a laboratory for CE testing.
1. Laboratory Accreditation Status (EN ISO/IEC 17025)
CE tests are only considered valid when performed by accredited laboratories.
Before selecting a laboratory, make sure that:
- The laboratory holds EN ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation
- The scope of accreditation covers your specific product and applicable standards
Tests conducted by non-accredited laboratories may be deemed invalid during the CE conformity process.
2. Coverage of Relevant Test Standards
Not all laboratories are accredited for the same test standards.
For example:
- One laboratory may be authorized to perform EMC tests
- Another may not be accredited for LVD safety tests
The laboratory must have the exact standards required for your product within its accredited test scope.
3. Area of Expertise and Experience
A laboratory’s technical expertise has a direct impact on the accuracy and reliability of test results.
For example:
- A laboratory without toy-testing experience may not correctly perform EN 71 tests
- Laboratories experienced in RF / RED testing are essential for IoT and wireless devices
Choosing a laboratory with proven experience in your product category significantly reduces testing risks.
4. Test Lead Time
Due to high demand, many laboratories operate with long waiting periods.
Before finalizing your selection, clarify:
- Test start date
- Estimated test duration
- Test report issuance time
Long test lead times can delay CE certification by several months and postpone market entry.
5. Test Costs
Test costs vary depending on the applicable standards:
- EMC tests: High cost
- RoHS tests: Medium cost
- Physical toy tests: Low to medium cost
- RF / RED tests: High cost
When choosing a laboratory, focus not only on the lowest price, but on the most accurate, reliable, and accredited testing service.
6. Sample Preparation Requirements
Some laboratories may require:
- Samples provided in special packaging
- Devices operating in production or final-user mode
- Additional hardware, accessories, or software
Unclear or misunderstood sample requirements may result in repeated testing and additional costs.
7. Test Report Quality and Format
Test reports included in the CE technical file must:
- Comply with international reporting formats
- Clearly state test parameters and conditions
- Include test setup photographs
- Contain complete measurement tables
- Correctly reference applicable standards
Incomplete or incorrect test reports may lead to rejection of the CE conformity assessment.
8. Laboratory Communication and Technical Support
During the testing process:
- Additional technical information may be requested
- Product modifications may be required
- Technical clarifications may be necessary
Fast communication and strong technical support from the laboratory are essential to keep the CE process on schedule.
Possible Consequences of Choosing the Wrong Laboratory
An incorrect laboratory selection may result in:
- Re-testing requirements
- Delays in market entry
- CE marking being considered invalid
- Products being stopped at customs
- Unnecessary high costs
- Penalties during market surveillance inspections
How SERTİFİKE Supports Laboratory Selection
At SERTİFİKE, we support manufacturers and importers throughout the laboratory selection process by providing:
- Correct identification of required CE tests
- Verification of accredited test laboratories
- Detailed review of laboratory accreditation scopes
- Planning of test sequences and sample requirements
This ensures that your testing process is faster, safer, and more cost-effective.
The Right Laboratory Is the Heart of the CE Process
Choosing the correct test laboratory directly affects:
- Product safety
- Validity of the CE marking
- Speed to market
- Overall quality of the conformity assessment process
The right choice simplifies the CE process from the very beginning — while the wrong choice can put the entire project at risk.
