Expanding into global e‑commerce platforms opens tremendous opportunities — but every market has its own compliance boundaries. Retailers and manufacturers who understand listing regulations, restricted categories, and safety documentation will not only reduce risk but also gain a competitive edge across platforms like Amazon and eBay.
This article summarizes the practical compliance essentials you should review before launching a product on different global marketplaces.
1. Why Compliance Matters in Cross‑Border E‑Commerce
Platform policies are designed to ensure consumer safety, protect brand reputation, and maintain marketplace trust.
Non‑compliant listings (for example, missing safety certificates or restricted keywords) can lead to:
- Listing suspension or permanent removal.
- Account deactivation in severe or repeated cases.
- Loss of advertising or fulfillment eligibility (FBA, eBay Global Shipping).
- Negative keyword connection to your brand in platform algorithms.
2. Amazon Listing Compliance — Documentation & Restrictions
Amazon categorizes products under specific regulatory and documentation requirements depending on the region.
🧾 Core Compliance Requirements
| Document Type | Common Categories | Region Example |
|---|---|---|
| CE / RoHS certificates | Electronics, personal care, LED products | EU, UK |
| FDA registration / MSDS | Health, wellness, personal devices | US |
| REACH & WEEE | Chemical or electronic items | EU |
| CPSIA / ASTM F963 | Toys, children’s products | US, CA |
| UKCA marking | Electrical & industrial products | UK post‑Brexit |
Additional Amazon programs such as Brand Registry and Transparency now require manufacturers to provide verified UPC/EAN/GTIN codes and authenticity documentation to prevent IP infringement.
🚫 Restricted & Gated Categories
- Medical or diagnostic devices
- Cosmetics with undeclared ingredients
- Products making therapeutic claims
- Certain lubricants, supplements, or intimate wellness items (require vetted safety data and legal disclaimers)
- Hazardous materials (battery cells, aerosols, etc.)
Tip: Always check the destination Marketplace’s “Restricted Products List,” as what is approved on Amazon US may not be allowed on Amazon DE or JP.
3. eBay Listing Compliance — Category Rules & Permitted Claims
eBay offers more flexibility in global trade, but its compliance policies are still rigorous and closely monitored by AI filters.
📑 Essential Compliance Documents
| Type | Required For | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | Any liquid, oil, or chemical product | Global |
| Proof of Authenticity or Manufacturer License | Branded, OEM or refurbished goods | Global |
| CE / EN71 Documentation | Toys, electronics, wellness products | EU |
| Product Source Declaration | For large-volume B2B sellers | US & AU marketplaces |
🔒 Key Restricted Categories
- Medical devices or tools not cleared by local authorities
- Supplements promoted with curing claims
- Items containing lithium batteries or compressed gas
- “Adult wellness” products must follow local advertising rules and may require gated listing approval
eBay’s “Responsible Listing Policy” also restricts use of certain keywords that suggest medical, sexual, or therapeutic effects unless properly approved or certified.
4. Regional Differences You Must Track
| Platform | Region | Common Additional Compliance |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon EU | CE, REACH, VAT ID, EPR Filing | Eco‑design & packaging laws |
| Amazon US | FDA, FCC, UL Testing | Prop 65 labeling |
| eBay UK | UKCA, CE Dual File | Chemical labelling GB CLP |
| eBay AU | Poisons Standard & NICNAS registration | Chemical disclosure rules |
Tracking regional updates quarterly is essential — these regulations change routinely and often with short transition deadlines.
5. The Seller’s Compliance Checklist (Before Listing)
- ✅ Confirm each SKU’s HS Code and check import eligibility.
- ✅ Prepare CE/RoHS/REACH/FDA documents before upload.
- ✅ Register Brand Registry (Amazon) or Verified Rights Owner (eBay).
- ✅ Draft safe and compliant product descriptions — no medical or therapeutic promises.
- ✅ Create compliant packaging artwork (label warnings, recycling logo, importer address).
- ✅ Conduct random product testing or third‑party inspection before shipment.
6. How KANGVO Supports Global Compliance
At KANGVO (Shenzhen Sikangwo Technology Co., Ltd.), we help brands and distributors:
- 📘 Navigate CE / RoHS / REACH testing requirements.
- 🧪 Conduct in‑house aging, odor and VOC tests for EU & US markets.
- 🗂️ Prepare documentation for Amazon/EU listing approval.
- 🚚 Support OEM and private label manufacturing with 1‑year warranty and door‑to‑door logistics.
Our team’s goal is simple: help exporters launch faster, safer, and fully compliant products worldwide.
📧 info@kangvo.com
📲 WhatsApp: +86 133 1692 1189