What is UFI? EU UFI registration process and steps
Date：2025-10-24 09:18:01 Classification
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The UFI (Unique Formula Identifier) is a unique alphanumeric code used to link submitted formula information to a specific mixture. A complete explanation and application process for EU UFI registration:
I. What is a UFI?
The UFI (Unique Formula Identifier) is a unique formula identifier required by the EU CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. It is used to identify hazardous mixtures placed on the EU market. Its core functions include:
1. Safety traceability: In the event of an emergency such as a poisoning, poison centers can use the UFI to quickly access product ingredients and toxicological information, providing precise first aid solutions.
2. Compliance Marking: This consists of 16 alphanumeric characters (e.g., `UFI:N1QV-R02N-J00M-WQD5`) and must be displayed on product labels or SDS reports.
3. Applicable Items:
- Mixtures (such as glues, cleaning agents, e-cigarette liquids, inks, etc.);
- Classified as physical or health hazards (flammable, corrosive, carcinogenic, etc.);
- Placed on the EU market (including industrial and consumer uses).
Exempt products: Pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, foods, and mixtures with unclassified hazards do not require registration.
II. UFI Registration Process and Steps
Step 1: Preliminary Preparations
1. Confirm the Registration Entity
- EU Companies: Manufacturers/Importers register directly;
- Non-EU Companies: Entrust an EU representative (such as an OR agency) to register on your behalf to protect the confidentiality of the formula.
2. Prepare Materials
- Updated SDS (in compliance with Regulation (EU) 2020/878);
- Mixture formula (ingredient name, concentration, hazard classification);
- Company information (name, address, EU VAT number).
Step 2: Generate a UFI Code
- Generation Method:
- If you have a VAT number: Enter your VAT number + any number (0-268435455) to generate it online;
- If you do not have a VAT number: A randomly generated 16-digit code must be unique.
- Format Requirements: Uppercase letters + numbers, divided into 4 groups (e.g., `UFI:5500-D02F-350D-H5ST`). Avoid using easily confused characters (e.g., O/0).
Step 3: Submit a PCN Notification
Submit the following information through the ECHA Single Portal (PCN Portal):
1. Product Information: Name, Packaging Size, Intended Use Classification (according to the EuPCS system);
2. Toxicological Data: Toxicological properties of ingredients, first aid measures;
3. UFI Code: The same as the generated code.
> Turnaround Time: Approximately 5-7 working days, expedited processing available.
Step 4: Labeling and Compliance Management
1. Labeling:
- Print or affix the UFI code adjacent to the GHS label;
- The format is `UFI: XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX` (Latin alphabet, non-erasable).
2. Update Obligations:
- Changes to the formulation require a new UFI and notification;
- The report is valid by default but must be updated as regulations are updated.
III. Key Considerations
1. Language Requirements:
- Submissions must be in the official language of the target market.
2. Cost Estimation:
- Single mixture: ¥1,000-2,000 (including laboratory service fees);
- Complex formulations (e.g., multi-component e-cigarette liquids): May exceed ¥3,000.
3. Laboratory Selection:
- ECHA-accredited laboratories (such as Dezeway) are preferred.
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