Your guide to GPSR compliance for selling in the EU
Starting December 13, 2024, the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) introduced new rules to help ensure products sold to EU consumers are safe and traceable. These updates are designed to make things clearer and safer for everyone, from creators and supporters alike.
If you sell physical or digital items through Ko-fi, don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate it all. Let’s break it down step by step so you can keep creating and sharing with confidence.
Do I need to comply?
If you’re selling to the EU, the answer is yes.
As a Ko-fi creator, you’re the merchant responsible for ensuring your products (physical or digital) meet GPSR requirements. This applies to all items listed after December 13, 2024, whether you sell one or a hundred. Think of it as a way to build trust with your supporters while keeping your shop running smoothly.
What are the conditions for selling in the EU?
Complying with GPSR is simpler than it sounds. Here’s what you need to know:
- Keep your products safe: Ensure your items are safe to use as intended or in any way they’re reasonably expected to be used.
- Add compliance information: Include information like CE markings (if required) in your product listings. Learn more about CE markings here.
- Share important info with orders: Provide clear instructions, safety warnings, product identifiers, and your contact details. For digital products, mention any potential risks, like software compatibility.
- Save your records: Keep documentation about your products (like safety checks or risk assessments) for 10 years. Adding batch codes or unique identifiers can help with tracking or recalls.
- Be ready to help if asked: If EU authorities request information about your products, you’ll need to provide it promptly.
- Appoint an EU authorized representative: If you’re outside the EU, the official recommendation is to appoint someone in the EU to act as your representative. They’d be the go-to person for any questions about the technical or safety side of your product. If you’re in the EU, you’ll be the contact.
You can find the full details here. These steps are all about keeping your products safe and easy to trace if questions or concerns come up.
How can you comply on Ko-fi?
Ko-fi makes GPSR compliance simple! Here's how to get started:
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Ensure product safety
Before listing a product, make sure it’s safe for your supporters. Check for anything that could cause harm, like sharp edges, unstable parts, choking hazards, or fragile materials. For digital products, make sure they’re virus-free and compatible with common devices.
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Add compliance info to your listings
Include key details in your product descriptions, such as CE markings (if needed) or other safety information. This helps your supporters feel confident in their purchase. Learn how to update listings here.
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Include safety details with every order
Add any instructions, warnings, or contact information to your physical product packaging. For digital products, include these details in the download or confirmation email.
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Keep records for 10 years
Use Ko-fi’s CSV download tool to save your sales records easily. It’s a handy way to stay organized and meet this requirement without any extra hassle. Learn more here.
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Cooperate with authorities
If an EU official asks for information about your products, you’ll need to provide it. Staying open and cooperative keeps things running smoothly.
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Appoint an EU Authorized Representative
- If you’re in the EU, that’s you!
- Outside the EU? Nominate a trusted representative and add their contact info to your product listings.
Can I stop selling to the EU?
Yes, you can adjust your shop settings if you’d prefer not to sell to EU customers.
- For physical products, you can limit shipping destinations. This ensures only your chosen regions can place orders.
- Digital products don’t currently have regional restrictions on Ko-fi, so they’ll remain available worldwide.
Ko-fi’s commitment to helping you
We understand that keeping up with regulations can feel like a lot, but you’re not alone. Ko-fi is here to provide practical tips and keep you updated as rules change, so you can focus on doing what you love.
If you have any questions contact us anytime, we’d love to hear from you! 💌