How and Where Should the CE Mark Be Affixed to a Product?
For manufacturers who have completed the CE certification process, one of the final and most critical steps is placing the CE mark correctly on the product. This is because the CE mark is an official conformity marking indicating that the product complies with European Union regulations, and it must be used in accordance with specific rules.
Incorrect use of the CE mark can lead to serious consequences, including the product being deemed non-compliant or even being withdrawn from the market.
In this article, we examine in detail how to use the CE mark, where it should be placed on the product, and the rules that must be followed.
What Is the CE Mark?
The CE mark is an official conformity marking that indicates a product complies with European Union technical legislation.
By affixing the CE mark, the manufacturer declares that:
- the product meets health and safety requirements
- the necessary conformity assessment procedures have been completed
- the technical documentation has been prepared
For this reason, the CE mark should only be used after the CE certification process has been fully completed.
Rules for Affixing the CE Mark
According to European Union regulations, the use of the CE mark is subject to specific rules. Failure to comply with these rules may result in the product being considered non-compliant.
1. The CE Mark Must Primarily Be Affixed to the Product
The basic rule is that the CE mark must be placed directly on the product itself.
However, alternative methods may be used in the following cases:
- if the product is too small
- if it is technically not possible to place it on the product
In such cases, the CE mark may be placed on:
- the product label
- the packaging
- the user manual
2. It Must Be Visible, Legible, and Permanent
The CE mark must be:
- easily visible
- clearly legible
- applied in a permanent and non-removable manner
Therefore:
- easily removable labels should be avoided
- it should not be applied directly to surfaces that may wear off
3. Minimum Size of the CE Mark
The minimum height of the CE mark must be 5 mm.
However, depending on the structure of the product, it may be used in larger sizes. The key requirement is that the mark remains clearly legible.
4. The Proportions of the CE Mark Cannot Be Altered
The CE mark may be enlarged or reduced, but its proportions must never be altered.
- compressed or stretched logos
- non-standard designs
are considered non-compliant with regulations. Therefore, the official proportions and design specifications must always be followed.
5. Notified Body Number (If Applicable)
For certain product groups, a Notified Body is involved in the conformity assessment process.
In such cases:
👉 the Notified Body identification number must be placed next to the CE mark.
This requirement typically applies to:
- medical devices
- certain construction products
- personal protective equipment
Example of CE Mark Placement
In a proper CE marking application, the following information is typically included together:
- CE mark
- manufacturer’s name or trademark
- product model or type
- serial number
These details ensure product traceability and transparency.
Common Mistakes in CE Mark Usage
Even companies that have completed the CE certification process may make mistakes when using the mark.
The most common errors include:
- using the CE mark without preparing technical documentation
- using incorrect sizes or proportions
- placing it only on the packaging instead of the product
- using the CE mark on products that do not require it
These mistakes can result in:
- product recalls
- suspension of sales
- legal penalties
Why Is Correct Use of the CE Mark Important?
The CE mark is not just a logo; it is also a declaration of the manufacturer’s legal responsibility.
Correct use of the CE mark:
- ensures regulatory compliance
- provides advantages during inspections
- facilitates export processes
Incorrect use, on the other hand, can lead to serious legal and commercial risks.
CE Certification Process with Sertifike
As Sertifike, we support manufacturers in managing CE certification and CE marking processes accurately and reliably.
Our services include:
- product regulatory analysis
- conformity assessment process management
- preparation of technical documentation
- guidance on CE mark usage
Our goal is to make the CE certification process error-free, fast, and sustainable for companies.
Conclusion
Correct placement of the CE mark on a product is one of the most critical steps in the CE certification process.
Therefore, manufacturers must:
- comply with proper placement rules
- fully meet technical requirements
- use the mark in accordance with regulations
A correctly applied CE mark provides companies with regulatory compliance, credibility, and advantages in international markets.
As Sertifike, we continue to support manufacturers in managing their CE marking processes with confidence.
