Global Compliance Portal
Board game import & safety requirements for Nordic Pirates AB — maintained by Tim
Last reviewed: June 2026
⚡
The single most important rule: the 14-year threshold
In every major market (EU, UK, USA, Australia, Canada), a product rated 14+ is legally not a toy. CE, UKCA, and equivalent markings are not required. A 13 or lower rating makes the product a toy — triggering mandatory safety testing. This is why LP currently uses 14+.
⚠️
CE / UKCA on a 14+ product is incorrect
Confirmed by Naylor Games (Dom Martin, June 2026): CE/UKCA on a 14+ box is misleading — it implies it's a certified toy when it legally isn't. For 14+ products: no CE marking, no UKCA. A product rated 13+ that genuinely had EN 71 testing done is fine — but don't apply the marks speculatively.
Mandatory vs. Nice-to-have
| Certification | When mandatory | When nice-to-have | Indicative cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| CE marking (EU) | Products for children under 14 in EU/EEA | Not applicable for 14+ products | €800–2,500 / SKU |
| UKCA marking (UK) | Products for children under 14 in UK | Not applicable for 14+ products | £700–2,000 / SKU |
| UK Responsible Person | Any product with UKCA in UK needs UK address | All products — distributors & retailers often request it | £150 / year |
| CPSC / ASTM F963 (USA) | Products for children under 12 in USA | Not required for 12+ or 14+ products | $600–2,000 / SKU |
| AS/NZS ISO 8124 (AUS) | Products for children under 14 in Australia | Not required for 14+ products | AUD 800–2,000 / SKU |
| FSC Certification | Never mandatory | Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly badge, ~10% more page views | Via manufacturer |
✅
LP & Cities of Greed (14+): all markets clear
No CE, no UKCA, no CPSC testing required. The UK Responsible Person address via Naylor Games (£150) is a useful commercial step for UK distribution, even though not legally mandatory at 14+.
🚨
TAP10 at 8+ needs full testing — before September launch
8+ triggers mandatory toy safety testing in EU, UK, USA, and Australia. Testing labs have 4–8 week queues. Without EN 71, UKCA, and CPSC certificates, TAP10 cannot legally be sold to children in these markets. Action required immediately.
Age Rating Guide
Which thresholds trigger which compliance requirements — and how to think about rating changes
The Four Zones
0–3
Most Restrictive
- No small parts
- No cord >220mm
- ⚠ triangle mandatory
- Strictest chemicals
- Not relevant for NP
3–13
Toy Zone
- CE required in EU
- UKCA required in UK
- CPSC required in USA (<12)
- EN 71 testing needed
- TAP10 (8+) is here
13+
Grey Zone
- Still a toy in EU/UK
- Outside CPSC in USA
- EN 71 → full CE possible
- Naylor Games' own products are 13+
- Unlocks EU retail/school
14+
General Product
- Not a toy anywhere
- No CE/UKCA needed
- Simplest import
- General safety still applies
- LP & CoG are here
Should LP change its age rating?
Option A — Keep 14+ Status quo
Zero extra compliance cost. No CE/UKCA needed. Fast import everywhere. LP is thematically appropriate for 14+ (humor, bluffing). Some premium retailers and school buyers prefer a CE-certified product, but most distributors are fine with 14+.
Option B — Move to 13+ Moderate effort
Triggers CE & UKCA in EU/UK. US CPSC does not apply (13 > 12 threshold). Get CE without full children's toy burden. EN 71 testing ~€1,000–1,500/SKU. Opens school & library channels in EU/UK. Testing takes 4–6 weeks.
Option C — Move to 10+ Full testing all markets
Triggers CE, UKCA, and US CPSC. Full toy compliance in all markets. More testing cost per SKU. The game plays at 10+ but compliance cost is significant across a multi-SKU product line. Recommend only if a major deal requires it.
TAP10 at 8+ Testing required
Non-negotiable: 8+ rating means full toy testing in EU, UK, USA, and Australia. This must be budgeted and started before the September launch window. Total est. €2,000–5,000 across all markets.
Recommendation
- LP & Cities of Greed: Stay at 14+. If a specific EU retailer or school distributor requires CE, consider 13+ and budget EN 71 testing (~€1,500/SKU). Don't change the rating until you have a concrete distribution deal that requires it.
- TAP10 (8+): Rating is set. Begin EN 71 / UKCA / CPSC testing immediately — labs have 4–8 week queues and the September window is at risk.
- Big Box / future titles: Decide age rating before artwork lockdown, not after. It affects box content, testing timeline, and costs.
What 8+ requires on-box (TAP10)
| Label element | EU (CE) | UK (UKCA) | USA | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age rating (8+) | ✓ Mandatory | ✓ Mandatory | ✓ Mandatory | Prominently displayed |
| Small parts warning ⚠ | If applicable | If applicable | If applicable | Triangle + text if small parts present |
| CE mark | ✓ Mandatory | — Not for EU CE | — | On box or label |
| UKCA mark | — | ✓ Mandatory | — | Separate from CE mark |
| EU Representative address | ✓ Mandatory | — | — | NP Sweden address |
| UK Responsible Person address | — | ✓ Mandatory | — | Naylor Games (£150/yr) |
| ASTM F963 reference | — | — | ✓ Mandatory | "Meets ASTM F963" on label |
| Tracking label / batch code | Recommended | Recommended | ✓ Mandatory (CPSIA) | Lot, date, country of origin |
| Bilingual EN+FR | — | — | — | Canada only — if selling there |
NP Product Status
Compliance snapshot per title — click Edit to add internal notes
Lying Pirates
Base Game
✓ EU
✓ UK
✓ USA
✓ AUS
✓ Canada
✓ Asia
Internal notes
Cities of Greed
Expansion
✓ EU
✓ UK
✓ USA
✓ AUS
✓ Canada
✓ Asia
Internal notes
TAP10
New — Sept 2026
✗ EU needs CE
✗ UK needs UKCA
✗ USA needs CPSC
✗ AUS needs test
! Canada EN/FR
! Asia varies
Internal notes
Big Box
Gamefound pre-sold
? EU
? UK
? USA
? AUS
—
—
Internal notes
TAP10 Action Plan
| Action | Market | Timeline | Cost est. | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Submit to EN 71 testing lab | 🇪🇺 EU | Now — 4–6 week turnaround | €800–1,500 | |
| Get UKCA test report (parallel to EN 71) | 🇬🇧 UK | Now — runs parallel | £700–1,200 | |
| Confirm UK Responsible Person (Naylor Games) | 🇬🇧 UK | This week — call Chris/Dom | £150 | |
| CPSC-accredited lab test + CPC | 🇺🇸 USA | 4–8 weeks | $600–1,500 | |
| Add ASTM F963 text to US label | 🇺🇸 USA | Before print approval | Print cost | |
| Age rating 8+ prominent on box front | 🌍 All | Before print approval | Print cost | |
| Tracking label (lot, date, origin) | 🌍 All | Before print approval | Print cost |
🇪🇺 European Union
Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC — 27 EU/EEA member states. New Regulation (EU) 2025/2509 applies from August 2030.
📋
New EU Toy Safety Regulation incoming
Regulation (EU) 2025/2509 adopted November 2025, enters into force Jan 2026, mandatory from August 2030. Current Directive 2009/48/EC remains the applicable law until then. No immediate action needed, but monitor changes for new product development.
Threshold Under 14
Products for play by children under 14 = toy. At 14+: general consumer product (GPSR applies, but no CE toy testing required).
CE Marking Mandatory for <14
CE mark on product, label, or packaging. Declaration of Conformity (DoC) must be kept for 10 years. As a Swedish company, NP is the EU manufacturer — no separate EU rep needed.
EN 71 Testing Series
- EN 71-1: Mechanical & physical (sharp edges, small parts)
- EN 71-2: Flammability
- EN 71-3: Chemical migration (heavy metals — per color/material)
For 14+ products (LP, CoG) General product only
General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR, effective Dec 2024) applies. Basic traceability and safety required. No EN 71, no CE mark, no DoC needed for toys.
Internal notes
EU market notes — editable
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Post-Brexit: UKCA marking + UK Responsible Person. Context: Naylor Games conversation June 2026.
🤝
Naylor Games offer
Dom Martin & Chris Matthews (ex-Zatu) offer: UK Responsible Person address £150 + B2B sales support to UK/EU distributors. Chris knows NP products from his Zatu days. The £150 is just for the address — testing is additional and separate.
Threshold Under 14
UK Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 mirrors EU Directive. Same 14-year threshold. 14+ = general consumer product, no UKCA toy marking required.
UKCA Mark Mandatory for <14 in UK
Mandatory since Jan 2023 for toys sold in UK. If selling in both EU and UK: need both CE (EU) and UKCA (UK) — either on the same label or separate variants.
UK Responsible Person Required if UKCA applies
Any UKCA product must have a UK-based entity name & address on box. Naylor Games provides this for £150/year. Also commercially useful for 14+ products (distributors ask for it).
Testing
UKCA testing mirrors EN 71 in scope. If you already have EN 71 test reports, the same lab can often issue UKCA certificates simultaneously. Test once, certify twice.
Internal notes
UK market notes — editable
🇺🇸 United States
CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) + ASTM F963-23
🇺🇸
US threshold is 12, not 14
CPSIA covers children's products for ages 12 and under. Products rated 13+ or 14+ do not require CPSC third-party testing or a Children's Product Certificate. ASTM F963-23 became mandatory April 2024.
Threshold Under 12 (not 14)
- LP (14+) and CoG (14+): no CPSC testing ✓
- TAP10 (8+): full CPSC testing required ✗
- 13+ also avoids CPSC requirements
CPSC Testing (<13) Mandatory
ASTM F963-23 testing at CPSC-accredited lab. Children's Product Certificate (CPC). Tracking label (product, batch, date, origin). Importer of record address on packaging.
Importer of Record
For US imports: a US-based importer of record or customs broker needed. Many distributors (e.g. PSI, Alliance Game Distributors) act as importer. Confirm with US distributor who carries liability.
Amazon USA
Amazon US requires CPSC documentation for children's products (8+). Upload CPC and test reports to Seller Central before listing TAP10. For 14+: standard seller compliance, no special docs.
Internal notes
USA market notes — editable
🇦🇺 Australia & New Zealand
AS/NZS ISO 8124 — mandatory standard enforced by ACCC
Threshold Under 14
Same as EU: products for children under 14 must comply with AS/NZS ISO 8124. Products 14+ are general consumer goods under Australian Consumer Law.
AS/NZS ISO 8124 Mandatory for <14
Part 1: Mechanical & physical. Part 3: Migration of certain elements. No visual mark/logo (unlike CE), but test documentation required and available to regulator on request.
For 14+ (LP, CoG)
No AS/NZS testing required. ACL consumer safety obligations: product must not be a danger to persons. Standard import and distributor compliance handling.
For 8+ (TAP10)
Full AS/NZS ISO 8124 compliance. Most labs doing EN 71 also cover AS/NZS — include in same lab submission. One certificate covers both AUS and NZ.
Internal notes
Australia / NZ market notes — editable
🇨🇦 Canada
Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA) + Toys Regulations SOR/2011-17
⚠️
Bilingual labeling: English + French on all products
Any mandatory text on packaging (age ratings, warnings, safety info) must appear in both English and French — this applies to all products, not just toys. Unique Canadian requirement that affects even 14+ products if they have required labels.
Threshold Under 14
Canadian Toys Regulations: toy = product for use by a child under 14 in learning or play. Same 14-year threshold as EU and Australia.
For 14+ (LP, CoG) No toy testing
General CCPSA consumer safety rules apply. Any mandatory text on packaging must be bilingual. If selling through major Canadian retail chains, confirm with distributor who handles compliance.
For 8+ (TAP10)
Full toy compliance under CCPSA Toys Regulations. Bilingual age rating, warnings, and manufacturer information on all mandatory text. Similar scope to EN 71.
Non-compliance penalties
Fines up to CAD 10 million + import bans + product recalls. Enforcement via Health Canada and CBSA (border services). Undocumented children's products can be seized at customs.
Internal notes
Canada market notes — editable
🌏 Asia-Pacific
Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan — NP's current footprint
ℹ️
Less harmonized than EU/US
No single Asia-Pacific toy safety standard. Enforcement for imported board games is generally lighter than EU/UK/US. CE certification (from EU compliance) is widely accepted as a quality signal in Asia even where not legally required. EU testing covers you here.
| Market | Standard | 14+ threshold? | Key requirement | NP status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇵🇭 Philippines | RA 10620 | Yes — under 14 | Bureau of Customs import permit for toys. CE/equivalent accepted. | LP/CoG (14+) clear ✓ |
| 🇲🇾 Malaysia | MS 1783 | Yes — under 14 | SIRIM cert or EN 71 accepted by distributors. 14+ clears as general merchandise. | LP/CoG (14+) clear ✓ |
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | EN 71 accepted | Yes — under 14 | Consumer Protection Act. EN 71 reports accepted as quality evidence. | LP/CoG (14+) clear ✓ |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | ST Mark (voluntary) | Yes — broadly 14 | No mandatory testing for imports. EN 71 accepted. Distributor handles compliance. | All products via distributor ✓ |
| 🇰🇷 South Korea | KC Mark | Yes — under 14 | KC certification mandatory for toys. 14+ products are general goods. | Not current market — |
Internal notes
Asia-Pacific market notes — editable
Our Partners
Testing labs, responsible persons, and compliance contacts — click Edit to update
✏️
This page is fully editable
Click the Edit button (bottom right) to add or update partner details. All data is saved in your browser. Use Export JSON to back it up or share with the team.
UK Compliance
| Company | Contact | Service | Cost | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Testing Labs (EN 71 / UKCA / CPSC)
| Lab | Contact / Quote ref | Coverage | Quoted price | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Other contacts
| Company / Person | Contact | Role | Notes | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sustainable & Amazon
FSC, Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly, and other marketplace signals
FSC Certification
What FSC is Not mandatory
Forest Stewardship Council — guarantees paper, cardboard, and wood from responsibly managed forests. Your manufacturer must hold FSC chain-of-custody certification. You can use the FSC label if they do. NP has ordered FSC materials for the Big Box.
Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly
FSC is one of Amazon's recognized certifications for the CPF badge:
- ~10% increase in product page views
- Featured in sustainable deal sections
- ~9.7% higher willingness to pay
- 77% of UK shoppers only trust certified sustainability claims
Cost
5–15% material premium (borne by manufacturer). Annual FSC trademark license via FSC Sweden: ~500–1,000 SEK/year. No separate certification fee for NP — manufacturer holds chain-of-custody.
TAP10 relevance
TAP10 is the V1 volume product (<€30). FSC + Amazon CPF badge is a smart positioning move for this price tier — drives discoverability and deal day inclusion on Amazon.
Other certifications
| Certification | Covers | Mandatory? | Value for NP |
|---|---|---|---|
| FSC | Sustainable forest paper/wood | Optional | Amazon CPF badge, premium buyers, B2B procurement sustainability requirements |
| Soy-based inks | Eco printing | Optional | Good PR, some retailers require it. Minimal cost premium. |
| ISO 14001 | Environmental management (manufacturer) | Optional | Large retail chain procurement sometimes requires from manufacturers |
| B Corp | Full social/environmental company cert | Optional | Brand positioning, investor narrative — high effort, not yet relevant for NP |
Cost Overview
Estimated costs per SKU — update with actual quotes in the Partners section
⚠️
These are estimates — get quotes from labs directly
Costs vary by product complexity, number of component types and colors, and chosen lab. A card-heavy game costs less than one with many different colored plastics. Request quotes from SGS, TÜV Rheinland, Bureau Veritas, or via your Chinese manufacturer.
| Certification | Market | Applies to | Estimated cost | Timeline | Recurring? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN 71 + CE | 🇪🇺 EU | TAP10 (8+) only | €800–2,500 / SKU | 4–6 weeks | On design change |
| UKCA | 🇬🇧 UK | TAP10 (8+) only | £700–1,500 / SKU | 4–6 weeks | On design change |
| UK Responsible Person | 🇬🇧 UK | All products (useful) | £150 / year | Immediate | Annual |
| CPSC / ASTM F963 | 🇺🇸 USA | TAP10 (8+) only | $600–1,500 / SKU | 4–8 weeks | On design change |
| AS/NZS ISO 8124 | 🇦🇺 AUS | TAP10 (8+) only | AUD 800–2,000 / SKU | 4–6 weeks | On design change |
| FSC trademark license | All | All products (optional) | ~500–1,000 SEK / year | Quick | Annual |
| TAP10 total est. | EU + UK + USA | TAP10 | €2,000–5,000 total | 6–8 weeks | On change |
| LP / CoG compliance | All markets | LP, CoG | €0 testing needed | — | — |
Cost-saving tips
- Bundle EU + UK: Same lab handles EN 71 and UKCA simultaneously. One sample shipment, dual cert. Ask for combined quote — typically 20–40% cheaper than separate.
- Use your manufacturer's lab network: Chinese manufacturers have relationships with accredited labs and often bundle testing into production at lower cost.
- Fewer component colors = less chemical testing: EN 71-3 is priced per color/material combination. Simplifying TAP10's palette saves cost.
- Test final samples, not prototypes: Design changes after a failed test = full re-test cost. Submit production-ready samples only.
- US + EU dual-accredited labs: SGS, TÜV Rheinland, Bureau Veritas are accredited for both CPSC and EN 71. One submission covers both regions.
Logistics Overview
Shipping from China to our four warehouse hubs — rules, documents, and routines
🚫
Golden rule: NEVER mix two SKUs in one master carton
This must be stated explicitly in every purchase order and confirmed in writing by the factory. Mixed cartons cause receiving errors at all hubs, delay warehouse intake, and create inventory reconciliation problems. One SKU per master carton, no exceptions.
🇺🇸
USA: LACEY Act declaration required for paper/cardboard products
The U.S. Lacey Act (16 U.S.C. § 3372) requires an import declaration (APHIS PPQ Form 505) for any shipment containing plant-derived materials — including paper, cardboard, and wood. Board games are fully covered. This must be filed before or at time of US customs clearance. Coordinate with freight forwarder.
Our four warehouse hubs
| Hub | Market | Location | Key document requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meeples Distribution | 🇪🇺 EU | Netherlands | EUR commercial invoice + packing list + CE certs (if toy-rated). EORI required. |
| Bridge Distribution | 🇺🇸 USA | United States | Commercial invoice + packing list + LACEY Act (PPQ 505) + ISF 10+2 + CPSC certs (if 8–12y product) |
| ZATU | 🇬🇧 UK | United Kingdom | Commercial invoice + packing list + UKCA certs (if toy-rated) + commodity code (UK Trade Tariff) |
| Armarlo (Gameology) | 🇦🇺 AUS | Australia | Commercial invoice + packing list + phytosanitary cert (if wood components) + AS/NZS certs (if toy-rated) |
Internal notes
Logistics general notes
Packing Requirements
What we require from the factory before and during packing — includes templates to send to manufacturer
Carton marking — mandatory on every master carton
Required on every carton Mandatory
- SKU + product name (e.g. "LP-BASE-EN — Lying Pirates Base Game EN")
- Quantity per carton (e.g. "6 pcs")
- Gross weight (kg) / Net weight (kg)
- Dimensions: L × W × H (cm)
- Country of origin: Made in China
- PO number / batch code
- Carton number out of total (e.g. "1/24")
One SKU per carton Non-negotiable
- Each master carton contains ONE SKU only
- State this in every PO and every packing instruction
- Include in manufacturer onboarding checklist
- Confirm in pre-production meeting and before packing begins
- If factory questions it: refuse exception, escalate
Photo documentation Required before shipment
Request from factory before sealing cartons:
- All 6 sides of each inner box type
- All 6 sides of master carton
- Carton markings close-up (legible)
- Stacking arrangement on pallet
- At least 3 open cartons showing contents + count
- Sealed pallet ready for pickup
Carton quality test Strongly recommended
Request from factory:
- FCT (Full Carton Test) / drop test report
- Stacking test (confirm cartons survive 5+ high in container)
- Moisture-proof inner lining if ocean freight to AUS/UK
Pre-shipment inspection checklist — Tim's routine
| # | Check | How | Status field |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carton marks match PO exactly | Compare carton photos to PO line items | |
| 2 | No mixed SKUs in any carton | Open 3–5 random cartons, count contents | |
| 3 | All 6-side carton photos received | Check WhatsApp/email from factory | |
| 4 | Packing list matches carton count | Count cartons on pallet photos | |
| 5 | Country of origin on every carton | Visible in close-up photo | |
| 6 | Test/compliance certificates ready | Request soft copies from factory/lab | |
| 7 | Commercial invoice drafted | Verify HS code, values, description | |
| 8 | All hub-specific docs prepared | See "Documents by Hub" section |
Internal notes
Packing notes
Documents by Hub
Required and recommended documents per warehouse destination
🇪🇺 Meeples Distribution — Netherlands (EU entry point)
Commercial Invoice Mandatory
In EUR. Must include: seller/buyer name+address, date, PO reference, HS code (9504.90), product description, unit price, total value, incoterms (typically EXW or FOB), country of origin.
Packing List Mandatory
Per carton: carton number, SKU, qty, gross/net weight, dimensions. Total cartons + total weights. Must match commercial invoice exactly.
Certificate of Origin Often required
Form A (GSP) or supplier's declaration of origin for preferential duty. For China origin goods entering EU: standard import duties apply (no preference). Request from factory if specific EU buyers or distributors require proof of origin.
CE Certificates If toy-rated (<14)
Keep EN 71 test reports and Declaration of Conformity on file. Meeples or EU customs may request them. Not needed for LP/CoG (14+). Required for TAP10 (8+).
EORI Number Mandatory for EU import
Nordic Pirates AB must have an EORI number for customs clearance into EU. Format: SE + VAT number. Apply via Swedish Customs (Tullverket) if not already registered.
Bill of Lading / AWB Mandatory
Sea: Bill of Lading (OBL or Seaway Bill). Air: Air Waybill. Freight forwarder issues this. Share with Meeples before arrival.
Hub notes
🇺🇸 Bridge Distribution — USA
Commercial Invoice Mandatory
In USD. Seller/buyer, date, PO ref, HTS code (9504.90.9080 typical for adult board games), product description, unit + total value, incoterms. Must be accurate — CBP audits.
Packing List Mandatory
Same as EU. Per carton with carton numbers, SKU, qty, weights, dims. Total summary at bottom.
LACEY Act Declaration (PPQ 505) Mandatory — paper products
Required for all plant-derived materials (paper, cardboard, wood). Filed with CBP at time of import. Coordinate with freight forwarder — they typically file this.
- Species: typically "Eucalyptus, Pinus, mixed hardwood pulp" (ask factory for paper supplier species)
- Country of harvest: China (or as declared by paper supplier)
- Quantity: weight of paper/cardboard components in kg
- Value: proportional dollar value of plant material
- Form: APHIS PPQ 505 (see Templates section)
ISF 10+2 (Importer Security Filing) Mandatory — ocean freight
Must be filed 24 hours before vessel loading in China. Handled by US customs broker (Bridge Distribution typically handles this or appoints one). Failure = $5,000 fine per violation. Provide commercial invoice + packing list to broker at least 48h before ETD.
CPSC Certificates + CPC If product is for children <12
Children's Product Certificate required for TAP10 (8+). Keep test reports on file. CBP can request at border. Also required to list on Amazon US for children's products.
Importer of Record Required
Confirm with Bridge Distribution who acts as importer of record (IOR). If NP is IOR: need US EIN/IRS number. If Bridge is IOR: confirm in contract. IOR is liable for all customs duties and compliance.
Hub notes
🇬🇧 ZATU — United Kingdom
Commercial Invoice Mandatory
In GBP or USD. Include UK commodity code (typically 9504909000 for adult board games). Seller/buyer, incoterms, origin, value.
Packing List Mandatory
Standard packing list. ZATU's warehouse requires accurate carton count and weights for receiving.
UKCA / CE Certificates If toy-rated (<14)
Keep test reports and Declaration of Conformity on file. HMRC/UK Border Force can request. Not needed for LP/CoG (14+). Required for TAP10 (8+) with UKCA mark.
EORI (UK format) Mandatory
Post-Brexit: need UK EORI (GB + 12 digits) for customs clearance. If NP doesn't have one: apply via HMRC. Alternatively ZATU can act as declarant — confirm with them.
UK Responsible Person address on box If UKCA applies
For UKCA-marked products (TAP10): Naylor Games UK address must be on the packaging before shipping to UK. Confirm address is on print files before production.
Import duty + VAT
UK import duty on board games from China: typically 4.7–6.5% (check current UK Global Tariff). 20% UK VAT applies at import. ZATU typically handles this as importer — confirm in distribution agreement.
Hub notes
🇦🇺 Armarlo / Gameology — Australia
Commercial Invoice Mandatory
In AUD or USD. Australian Harmonized Code for board games: 9504.90. Include country of origin, incoterms, seller/buyer. Accurate value — ATO audits.
Packing List Mandatory
Standard. Australian customs is thorough — ensure packing list is complete and matches invoice.
Phytosanitary Certificate If wood components present
Australia has strict biosecurity. If the game contains any real wood components (wooden cubes, pawns, tokens), a phytosanitary certificate from China's GACC may be required. Paper/cardboard typically does not require one, but check with freight forwarder for each shipment.
AS/NZS ISO 8124 Certs If toy-rated (<14)
Keep test reports on file. ACCC can request. Not needed for LP/CoG (14+). Required for TAP10 (8+). One certificate covers both AUS and NZ.
ABN of Importer
Armarlo's ABN is needed on import docs. They act as importer of record — confirm in distribution agreement.
GST on Import
10% Australian GST applies on imports above AUD 1,000. Armarlo handles this as importer. Below AUD 1,000 (de minimis): check current rules as they change.
Hub notes
Templates & Checklists
Kravdokument och checklistor som Tim skickar till tillverkare och fraktpartners
📋 Kravdokument till tillverkare (Manufacturer Requirements)
Skicka detta dokument till tillverkaren före produktionsstart och igen inför varje packningsomgång. Tillverkaren ska bekräfta skriftligt att de accepterar alla krav.
NORDIC PIRATES AB — MANUFACTURER PACKING & DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS
Issued by: Tim Didehvar / Nordic Pirates AB | Version: 2026-06
1. ONE SKU PER MASTER CARTON — NO EXCEPTIONS
Each master carton must contain ONE product SKU only. Do NOT mix different products, variants, or editions in the same carton. If you are unsure, stop and ask. This rule applies to every shipment without exception.
2. MASTER CARTON MARKINGS (required on every carton)
Each master carton must be clearly marked with:
• Product name & SKU (e.g. LP-BASE-EN — Lying Pirates Base Game EN)
• Quantity per carton (e.g. 6 pcs)
• Gross weight (kg) & Net weight (kg)
• Dimensions: L × W × H (cm)
• Country of Origin: Made in China
• Purchase Order Number: [PO NUMBER]
• Carton number out of total (e.g. 1/24)
3. PHOTOS REQUIRED — send before sealing cartons
Please send all photos to: tim@nordicpirate.com before loading.
Required photos:
• All 6 sides of each inner product box type
• All 6 sides of master carton (with markings visible)
• Close-up of carton markings (must be clearly legible)
• Minimum 3 open cartons showing contents & count
• Palletized load ready for pickup (all sides)
4. PACKING LIST
Provide a packing list with one line per carton number, including: carton#, SKU, qty, gross weight, net weight, dimensions. Total summary at bottom. Format: Excel or PDF.
5. COMPLIANCE DOCUMENTS
Provide the following documents per shipment (as applicable):
• Commercial Invoice (completed per NP template)
• Certificate of Quality / Final Inspection Report
• Test reports (EN 71 / UKCA / CPSC / AS-NZS) if applicable
• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) if applicable
• FSC chain-of-custody certificate (if FSC-certified production run)
6. QUALITY CONTROL
• Perform FCT (full carton test / drop test) and share report
• Confirm moisture-proof inner packaging for ocean freight
• Confirm stacking test completed (minimum 5 cartons high)
7. PAPER & MATERIAL DECLARATIONS (for US shipments)
For any shipment to the United States, we require:
• Species of wood pulp/paper used (e.g. "Eucalyptus globulus, Pinus sp.")
• Country of harvest for paper/board raw material
• This information is required for the US Lacey Act declaration (APHIS PPQ 505)
By proceeding with the production order, the manufacturer confirms acceptance of these requirements.
Nordic Pirates AB · Org. 559298-2143 · tim@nordicpirate.com
Issued by: Tim Didehvar / Nordic Pirates AB | Version: 2026-06
1. ONE SKU PER MASTER CARTON — NO EXCEPTIONS
Each master carton must contain ONE product SKU only. Do NOT mix different products, variants, or editions in the same carton. If you are unsure, stop and ask. This rule applies to every shipment without exception.
2. MASTER CARTON MARKINGS (required on every carton)
Each master carton must be clearly marked with:
• Product name & SKU (e.g. LP-BASE-EN — Lying Pirates Base Game EN)
• Quantity per carton (e.g. 6 pcs)
• Gross weight (kg) & Net weight (kg)
• Dimensions: L × W × H (cm)
• Country of Origin: Made in China
• Purchase Order Number: [PO NUMBER]
• Carton number out of total (e.g. 1/24)
3. PHOTOS REQUIRED — send before sealing cartons
Please send all photos to: tim@nordicpirate.com before loading.
Required photos:
• All 6 sides of each inner product box type
• All 6 sides of master carton (with markings visible)
• Close-up of carton markings (must be clearly legible)
• Minimum 3 open cartons showing contents & count
• Palletized load ready for pickup (all sides)
4. PACKING LIST
Provide a packing list with one line per carton number, including: carton#, SKU, qty, gross weight, net weight, dimensions. Total summary at bottom. Format: Excel or PDF.
5. COMPLIANCE DOCUMENTS
Provide the following documents per shipment (as applicable):
• Commercial Invoice (completed per NP template)
• Certificate of Quality / Final Inspection Report
• Test reports (EN 71 / UKCA / CPSC / AS-NZS) if applicable
• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) if applicable
• FSC chain-of-custody certificate (if FSC-certified production run)
6. QUALITY CONTROL
• Perform FCT (full carton test / drop test) and share report
• Confirm moisture-proof inner packaging for ocean freight
• Confirm stacking test completed (minimum 5 cartons high)
7. PAPER & MATERIAL DECLARATIONS (for US shipments)
For any shipment to the United States, we require:
• Species of wood pulp/paper used (e.g. "Eucalyptus globulus, Pinus sp.")
• Country of harvest for paper/board raw material
• This information is required for the US Lacey Act declaration (APHIS PPQ 505)
By proceeding with the production order, the manufacturer confirms acceptance of these requirements.
Nordic Pirates AB · Org. 559298-2143 · tim@nordicpirate.com
🌍 Per-destination Document Checklist (Tim → factory / freight forwarder)
Use this checklist for each shipment. Check off documents as they are received and confirmed. Save status below.
🇪🇺 Meeples Distribution — Netherlands (EU)
| Document | Required? | Status (editable) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice (EUR, with HS code 9504.90) | Mandatory | |
| Packing List (per carton, with weights & dims) | Mandatory | |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | Mandatory | |
| EORI number confirmed (NP SE number) | Mandatory | |
| Certificate of Origin | If requested | |
| CE test reports (EN 71) | If toy-rated <14 | |
| 1 SKU per carton confirmed in writing | Mandatory | |
| 6-side carton photos received | Mandatory |
🇺🇸 Bridge Distribution — USA
| Document | Required? | Status (editable) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice (USD, HTS code 9504.90.9080) | Mandatory | |
| Packing List | Mandatory | |
| LACEY Act Declaration (APHIS PPQ 505) — paper/wood | Mandatory | |
| ISF 10+2 filed by customs broker (24h before loading) | Mandatory — ocean | |
| CPSC test reports + CPC | If children <12 | |
| Importer of Record confirmed | Mandatory | |
| Tracking label on product (lot/date/origin) | If children <12 | |
| Paper species declaration for LACEY (from factory) | Mandatory | |
| 1 SKU per carton confirmed in writing | Mandatory | |
| 6-side carton photos received | Mandatory |
🇬🇧 ZATU — UK
| Document | Required? | Status (editable) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice (GBP/USD, UK commodity code 9504909000) | Mandatory | |
| Packing List | Mandatory | |
| UK EORI number confirmed | Mandatory | |
| UKCA test reports | If toy-rated <14 | |
| UK Responsible Person address on box (Naylor Games) | If UKCA applies | |
| 1 SKU per carton confirmed in writing | Mandatory | |
| 6-side carton photos received | Mandatory |
🇦🇺 Armarlo / Gameology — Australia
| Document | Required? | Status (editable) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice (AUD/USD, HS code 9504.90) | Mandatory | |
| Packing List | Mandatory | |
| Phytosanitary Certificate (if wood components) | If real wood present | |
| AS/NZS ISO 8124 test reports | If toy-rated <14 | |
| Importer ABN confirmed (Armarlo) | Mandatory | |
| 1 SKU per carton confirmed in writing | Mandatory | |
| 6-side carton photos received | Mandatory |
📧 Email template — Packing instructions to factory
Send before each production packing run. Fill in the bracketed fields.
Subject: Packing Instructions — [PO NUMBER] — [PRODUCT NAME]
Dear [Factory contact name],
Please confirm receipt and compliance with the following packing instructions for PO [NUMBER]:
RULE 1 — ONE SKU PER CARTON
Each master carton must contain ONE product only.
Do NOT mix SKUs, variants, or editions. Confirm this in writing.
RULE 2 — CARTON MARKINGS
Each carton must show:
• SKU + Product name: [NAME]
• Qty per carton: [X] pcs
• Gross / Net weight: [X] kg / [X] kg
• Dimensions: [L] x [W] x [H] cm
• Country of origin: Made in China
• PO: [PO NUMBER] Carton: [N]/[TOTAL]
RULE 3 — PHOTOS (send to tim@nordicpirate.com before sealing)
• 6 sides of inner product box
• 6 sides of master carton (markings legible)
• 3+ open cartons showing contents + count
• Full pallet, all sides, ready for pickup
DOCUMENTS TO PREPARE
• Packing list (per carton: carton#, SKU, qty, weights, dims)
• Commercial invoice (NP template will be sent separately)
• Certificate of Quality / Final Inspection Report
• Compliance certs (EN71/UKCA/CPSC) — if applicable
• Paper species + country of harvest (required for USA shipments)
Please reply confirming you have read and accept these requirements.
Best regards,
Tim Didehvar
Operations — Nordic Pirates AB
tim@nordicpirate.com
📄 Commercial Invoice — required fields reference
| Field | Example / Rule | Needed for |
|---|---|---|
| Seller name + full address | Factory legal name + address | All hubs |
| Buyer name + full address | Nordic Pirates AB + hub address | All hubs |
| Invoice date + unique number | ISO format (2026-09-01) | All hubs |
| PO reference | NP purchase order number | All hubs |
| HS/HTS/Commodity code | EU: 9504.90 | USA: 9504.90.9080 | UK: 9504909000 | AUS: 9504.90 | All hubs |
| Product description | "Board game, not for children under 14 years" (14+) or "Toy, board game, for ages 8+" (TAP10) | All hubs |
| Quantity (units) | Per SKU line item | All hubs |
| Unit price | Actual value — do not undervalue | All hubs |
| Total value | Sum of all lines | All hubs |
| Country of origin | China | All hubs |
| Incoterms | FOB [port] or EXW [city] | All hubs |
| Currency | USD (US), GBP (UK), EUR (NL/EU) | Per hub |
🇺🇸 LACEY Act — PPQ 505 data to collect
For every US shipment containing paper, cardboard, or wood. Collect from factory, send to freight forwarder 72h before vessel loading.
Our saved LACEY data (update per production run)
Paper species (from factory)
Country of harvest
Freight forwarder (files PPQ 505)
Notes