SABER certification end-to-end — what it costs, what it takes, and how we handle it

If you are importing plywood into Saudi Arabia, nothing reaches your customer until the goods clear SABER. We have cleared 60+ shipments through it, so here is the process end-to-end — what it is, what it costs, how long it takes, and which parts we handle for you.

What SABER actually is

SABER is Saudi Arabia’s online conformity platform. Every regulated product must obtain two certificates through it: a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC), issued once per product model against the relevant SASO technical regulation, and a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC), issued for each individual consignment. Without a valid SCoC the container cannot be released at Jeddah or Dammam.

The two-step process

1. 1PCoC (one-time per model): a SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Body reviews the product test reports and technical file and issues the product certificate. For our plywood lines this is already in place.
2. 2SCoC (per shipment): against your commercial invoice we apply for the shipment certificate, which references the PCoC and the specific consignment. It is typically issued within 1–3 working days.

What it costs and how long it takes

• PCoC: a one-time cost amortised across all shipments of that model — usually a few hundred USD, already absorbed for our standard lines.
• SCoC: a modest per-shipment fee, quoted transparently in your offer.
• Timeline: because we hold the PCoC, the SCoC is in hand before the vessel arrives — clearance is not delayed by certification.

What we handle for you

You provide the commercial invoice and destination details. We hold the PCoC, apply for the SCoC, and ship the certificate with the document set alongside the Certificate of Origin and Phytosanitary Certificate. You receive a clearance-ready package, not a checklist of things to chase. See our full certifications reference for the complete document set.