As an Indian toy manufacturer looking to export your products to the USA and Canada, it's crucial to understand and comply with these markets' labelling and safety warning requirements. Proper labelling ensures regulatory compliance and enhances consumer safety and trust. Let's dive into the key requirements for both countries.
USA Requirements
Children's Product Certificate (CPC)
All children's products, including toys, must have a Children's Product Certificate. This document certifies that your product complies with applicable consumer product safety rules.
Tracking Labels
Tracking labels must be affixed to both the product and its packaging. These labels should include:
- Manufacturer's name
- Location of production
- Date of manufacture
- Batch or run number
Warning Labels
- Age Grading: Clearly indicate the appropriate age range for the toy.
- Small Parts Warning: For toys with small parts intended for children 3-6 years old, include:
"WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD-Small parts. Not for children under three years." - Balloon Warning: For products containing balloons, include:
"WARNING: CHOKING Children under eight years can choke or suffocate on uninflated or broken balloons. Adult supervision is required. Keep uninflated balloons from children. Discard broken balloons at once." - Marble Warning: For products containing marbles, include:
"WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD – This toy is a marble. Not for children under three years."
Additional Information
- Manufacturer's name and contact information
- Product name and model number
- Materials used (if relevant)
- Care and maintenance instructions
Canadian Requirements
Mandatory Labeling
- Name and principal place of business of the manufacturer or importer in Canada
- Model name or number
- Lot number or other production identifier
Bilingual Requirements
All mandatory information must be in both English and French.
Warning Labels
Similar to USA requirements, with additional specifics:
- Age Grading: Must be visible at the point of sale.
- Small Parts Warning: For toys with small parts intended for children 3-6 years old:
"WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD – Small parts. / AVERTISSEMENT : RISQUE D'ÉTOUFFEMENT – Petites pieces." - Suffocation Warning: For plastic bags over 14 inches wide and 1 mil thick:
"PLASTIC BAGS CAN BE DANGEROUS. TO AVOID DANGER OF SUFFOCATION KEEP THIS BAG AWAY FROM BABIES AND CHILDREN. / LES SACS DE PLASTIQUE PEUVENT ÊTRE DANGEREUX. POUR ÉVITER LE DANGER DE SUFFOCATION, NE LAISSEZ PAS CE SAC À LA PORTÉE DES BÉBÉS NI DES ENFANTS."
Remember, this is just an overview. Always consult legal experts and regulatory bodies for the most up-to-date and detailed information before exporting your toys.