Things to Note When Exporting Electric Wheelchairs to Spain

Things to Note When Exporting Electric Wheelchairs to Spain

1. Certification Requirements
CE Certification
Electric wheelchairs exported to Spain must obtain CE certification. CE certification is a basic requirement for product safety, health, and environmental protection in the EU market. As medical devices, electric wheelchairs are Class I medical devices and must comply with the relevant provisions of the EU Medical Device Regulation (EU MDR 2017/745).
Manufacturers must prepare CE technical documentation that complies with the MDR, including information on the product’s design, manufacturing, and testing. This documentation must be maintained by the EU Authorized Representative for EU official inspections.
At the same time, a product registration application must be submitted to the member state where the EU representative is located, along with a completed registration letter.
In addition, electric wheelchairs must comply with relevant testing standards, such as EN 12184, which applies to electric wheelchairs with a maximum speed not exceeding 15 km/h and a load capacity not exceeding 300 kg.
VMP Certification (for products similar to electric wheelchairs)
Although electric wheelchairs are primarily used for medical rehabilitation, they may be classified as personal mobility devices (VMPs) in certain circumstances. Starting January 22, 2024, all electric wheelchairs (VMPs) sold in Spain must pass a series of technical tests and obtain a VMP certificate. While electric wheelchairs are not identical to electric scooters, if their design and use are similar to VMPs, they may need to refer to these certification requirements.

2. Product Standards
Performance Standards
Electric wheelchairs must meet relevant Spanish and EU standards. For example, their maximum speed, load capacity, and range must comply with EN 12184.
Product design should consider the needs of diverse users, including the elderly and those with disabilities, ensuring ease of use, comfort, and safety.
Safety Standards
Product safety is paramount. Electric wheelchairs must have a reliable braking system, a stable frame structure, and good handling.
The product’s electrical system must meet safety standards to prevent potential safety hazards such as leakage and short circuits.
The product’s battery must comply with relevant safety standards, such as UN 38.3, to ensure safety during transportation and use.

3. Labeling and Instructions
Language Requirements
Product labels and instructions must be in Spanish to ensure users can understand and use the product correctly. The instruction manual should detail the product’s operation, maintenance, and safety precautions.
Content Requirements
The label should include basic product information, such as the brand, model, manufacturer, and CE mark.
The instruction manual should include detailed product specifications, intended use, target population, operating procedures, and troubleshooting information.

4. Transportation and Logistics
Packaging Requirements
Product packaging should be sturdy, moisture-proof, and shock-resistant to ensure protection against damage during transportation.
Packaging should comply with relevant EU regulations, such as environmental requirements for packaging materials.
Transportation Methods
Electric wheelchairs are typically transported by sea, air, and land. Choosing the appropriate transportation method requires considering factors such as product weight, volume, shipping time, and cost.
Sea transport is suitable for shipping large quantities of heavy products, but it takes longer. Air transport is fast but more expensive, making it suitable for shipping small quantities of high-value products. Land transport is suitable for transporting to neighboring countries.
Selecting a Logistics Partner
Choosing a reliable logistics partner is crucial. This partner should have extensive international logistics experience and be familiar with Spanish and EU logistics regulations. Partners should provide comprehensive logistics services, including cargo tracking, insurance, and customs clearance.

5. Market Research and Customer Needs Analysis
Market Research
Before exporting electric wheelchairs to Spain, conduct detailed market research. Understand the size, growth trends, key competitors, and market share distribution of the Spanish electric wheelchair market.
Study the differences in demand for electric wheelchairs in different regions of Spain, such as the demand characteristics in urban and rural areas.
Customer Needs Analysis
Analyze the needs of high-end wholesale buyers in Spain. They typically have high requirements for product quality, performance, brand, and price.
Understand their procurement channels, procurement cycles, and procurement volumes to develop appropriate sales strategies.

6. After-Sales Service
Build a comprehensive after-sales service network in Spain, including repair centers and spare parts warehouses.
Cooperate with local distributors and repair shops to provide timely and efficient after-sales service.
After-sales Service Content
Provide product repair, maintenance, technical support, and other services.
Establish a customer feedback mechanism to promptly collect customer feedback and suggestions for continuous product and service improvement.

7. Laws and Regulations
Import Regulations
Understand Spanish import regulations, including tariffs, VAT, and import licenses.
Ensure your product imports comply with Spanish laws to avoid fines or the risk of goods being seized due to non-compliance.