Have you ever searched for something online and wondered if it was legitimate? How can you tell if it's worth buying and of good quality?
Generally speaking, you can sell most products online without issue as long as you are not violating any law. However, various countries have strict rules about what can and can't be placed on the market. For example, in Australia, many products must meet product safety requirements under Australian Consumer Law.
The best way to verify that a product is safe and trustworthy is if it has received certification. What is product certification, though? This type of certification serves as proof that a specific product is compliant with all regulations required of it.
Here are some benefits of product certification that you shouldn't miss.
1. Acquire Marketing Advantages
One of product certification's first and most significant benefits is that it can help you stand up to your competition. If your business functions as a supplier for another company or business, then one of the things they look for is if your product is certified.
Product certification with Azolla Certified, in particular, looks at the manufacturing processes of a supplier to see whether they are observing ethical and environmental practices in their manufacturing processes.
That said, the kinds of certifications you get can also affect your marketing status. For example, an ethical certification shows consumers that your business values life, health, and safety. An environmental certification demonstrates your commitment to sound environmental practices. It also includes good social and safety practices.
In addition to helping your company look good, a certification holds weight online.
Consumers can search for companies that hold specific certifications they're interested in. If you don't have the appropriate credentials, they're likely to end up going with a competitor who does.
2. Meet Regulatory Requirements
Every country has its own set of regulatory requirements. Product certification helps your business meet them. For example, an environmental certification ensures other companies that your products have been manufactured using methods that minimise harm to the environment.
It’s important to conduct a gap analysis and receive technical support to address known gaps. You should also test your product against the benchmark and your competitors. Finally, apply for an official assessment and make any necessary changes.
Once you receive your certification, you'll need to consistently evaluate it to keep your product in line with regulations. All certificates have an expiration date, and any changes to your product could render it invalid.
It is possible for your product to fail certification. This would show that your product does not currently meet your state or country's regulatory requirements. You'll want to make any required changes before putting it on the market.
3. Secure More Business Deals
If you've been in business for a while, there's a good chance that you've established a customer base that trusts you. They may not care about certifications because you've already proven yourself to them. However, a solid local customer foundation isn't going to help much when you try to expand into other areas.
People trying to buy your products online know nothing about your brand. So how do you expect them to do business with you when there is no guarantee that it'll be worth their money?
Product certification ensures that you're following regulations and guidelines. For other companies and your consumers, purchasing certified products is often required by law. Failing to use certified products may result in the denial of certain insurance claims.
Other companies may need to use certified products to continue their operations. Even if it isn't legally required, they're likely to search for products that have been adequately assessed and certified.
4. Ensure Consistencies in Manufacturing Practices
Consistency is critical when it comes to manufacturing and selling products. If what a person buys is different or of varying quality than the last time they purchased it, that could be a huge problem. It's especially dangerous if your business supplies parts to another company.
Ethical and environmental certifications include an audit report of the factory where your product is manufactured. They look for any risks such as potential child labour, health and safety violations, and discrimination. The auditor can also review factors such as environmental policy and waste disposal.
Furthermore, certification bodies conduct consistent inspections to verify that your manufacturing practices remain consistent. It's not like you get a certification and are good to go for the foreseeable future. Accountability comes hand-in-hand with quality assurance.
5. Protect Consumers
Your customers are the lifeblood of your business. If they're happy and content, they'll let other people in their circle know to try out your products. Conversely, an unhappy customer can derail your entire business and drive you into foreclosure.
One of the many benefits of product certification is that you can be sure your products won't cause any issues for your buyers.
In addition, consumers who know better will actively search for certified products that have been manufactured ethically in advance.
Get the Benefits of Product Certification
It may seem like much extra work for a seal of approval, but the benefits of product certification are almost immediate. That certification tells all of your current and future customers that your products have met environmental and ethical expectations during manufacturing. It also holds your company accountable just in case someone tries to make changes at any point in the manufacturing process.
Azolla Certified issues accreditation that provides evidence of responsible manufacturing. We specialise in ethical and environmental certifications. These are two areas an increasing number of people care about these days.
Contact us to discuss your certification requirements and if you have any questions.