The SONCAP Product Certificate (PC) — also known as the Product Registration (PR) — is the first and essential step in Nigeria’s mandatory conformity assessment program.
Before any shipment can be cleared, exporters must obtain this certificate to verify that their products comply with Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS).
This guide provides a clear cost breakdown for exporters preparing to apply for a SONCAP PC certificate.
The total cost of SONCAP Product Certification depends on several key elements:
1️⃣ Official Certificate Fee – A fixed amount paid to the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) for each approved product name.
2️⃣ Product Testing Fee – Charged by an accredited ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory for product testing and report issuance. This is usually the largest and most variable expense.
3️⃣ Additional Compliance or Inspection Fees – Depending on product type and shipment requirements, inspection or audit fees may apply.
| Certificate Type | Applicable Scenario | Official Fee (Reference) | Validity | Characteristics & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PC1 (Unregistered) | Many models, ≤1 shipment/year | ~$300 / product name | 6 months – 1 year | Typically for one-time shipments; may require inspection. |
| PC2 (Registered) | Common for non-high-risk products | ~$300 / product name | 1 year | Multiple shipments allowed during validity; ISO 9001 often required. |
| PC3 (Licensed) | High-risk products, frequent shipments | ~$1300 / certificate + $300 / additional product | 1 year | Requires factory audit; highest official fee. |
Note: Some certification bodies may charge additional model fees depending on product variations.
When planning your export budget, remember to include indirect or hidden costs associated with SONCAP certification:
Product Testing Fees: Ranging from ~$1,500 to $8,000, depending on product complexity (e.g., batteries, electronics, or medical devices).
SONCAP Certificate (SC) Fee: Each shipment requires a new SC certificate — approximately $300 per shipment.
Pre-shipment Inspection Fee: May range from $300–$800 per inspection.
Other Hidden Costs: Possible demurrage (~$200/day), document amendment fees, or courier fees.
Want to reduce your SONCAP certification costs? Here are some practical, experience-based tips:
✅ Choose the Right Certification Route:
If you plan long-term exports, PC2 or PC3 is more cost-effective than repeating PC1 for every shipment.
✅ Prepare Complete Documents in Advance:
Missing or incorrect files can result in amendment fees and processing delays.
✅ Reuse Valid International Test Reports:
Existing CE or CB test reports (if valid) can help reduce testing requirements and associated costs.
✅ Design with Compliance in Mind:
Ensure your products meet Nigerian voltage and plug standards (230V/50Hz, BS 1363/BS 546) during design to avoid expensive redesigns.
While official SONCAP PC certificate fees are relatively standardized, the testing and inspection process greatly influence the final cost.
For a realistic budget, exporters should evaluate their product category, shipment frequency, and certification route before applying.
Get professional support and a customized cost breakdown based on your specific product type and export volume.
Contact BLUEASIA
Phone/whatsapp: 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
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Q1: Is SONCAP mandatory for all products exported to Nigeria?
Yes. Most regulated goods require SONCAP certification to clear Nigerian customs.
Q2: Can I reuse a PC certificate for multiple shipments?
Yes, PC2 and PC3 certificates allow multiple shipments within their validity period.
Q3: How long does the SONCAP process take?
Generally 2–4 weeks, depending on document completeness and testing lead time.
Q4: Do I need a factory audit for PC2?
No. Factory audits are required only for PC3 (Licensed) products.
Q5: What happens if my test report is not from a CNAS or ISO/IEC 17025 accredited lab?
It will be rejected, and you’ll need to redo testing at an accredited facility.
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