When exporting supermarket shelving to Europe and North America, environmental compliance is a key requirement—especially for entry into major retail channels. Two important regulations are RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals).

RoHS primarily restricts the presence of hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium in electrical and metallic components. REACH, on the other hand, governs the safe use and disclosure of chemicals across a product’s entire lifecycle, including coatings, plastic accessories, and packaging materials.

Here are key steps to evaluate compliance:

1. Material Source Verification
   Request Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or Declarations of Conformity (DoC) from suppliers of steel, coating, and plastic parts to ensure that materials are free of RoHS-banned substances and do not contain REACH-SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern).

2. Surface Coating Testing
   Conduct RoHS 2.0 heavy metal testing and REACH 1907/2006 screening for harmful substances in powder coatings. Use third-party labs such as SGS, TÜV, or Intertek to issue valid reports.

3. Component Traceability
   Ensure that all shelf components—including plastic feet, screws, connectors, and even packaging—are verified as non-toxic, low-VOC, and compliant with environmental standards.

4. Provide Compliance Documentation
   For smooth customs clearance and platform compliance checks, prepare a Declaration of Conformity including test report numbers, lab info, and certification validity.

5. Third-Party Certification Support
   If possible, apply for RoHS certificates under CE marking, REACH reports, or green building material certificates to boost trust among clients in regulated markets.

In conclusion, achieving compliance for eco-friendly supermarket shelving requires rigorous material control, traceable processes, and full documentation. Providing verified certificates not only enhances your product’s reputation but also reduces compliance risks for international buyers.