Product Compliance and Country of Origin
This policy explains how Open Dock addresses Australian product compliance requirements on a sourcing order, and how responsibility is split between Open Dock and you as the importer.
This policy sets out how we operate. It does not replace the terms of a signed services agreement, which prevail where they differ.
Last updated: 3 September 2026
1. Identifying applicable standards
We identify Australian standards and mandatory information or safety standards that commonly apply to your product category based on the specification you give us, and flag them for your confirmation before production. You are responsible for confirming that the final specification, and any use you intend for the product, meets all requirements that apply to your business, we do not provide legal or regulatory certification advice.
2. Labelling and mandatory markings
Where a mandatory marking or label applies, such as a trade measurement statement, care label, or a required safety warning, we arrange for it to be applied during production according to the approved specification. You approve label artwork and content before production begins.
3. Country of origin representations
Any country of origin claim made on packaging or in marketing must be accurate and capable of substantiation under Australian Consumer Law. We will tell you where a product is manufactured based on the supplier we place your order with; you are responsible for how that is represented on packaging and in your own marketing.
4. Tariff classification and duty
We work with our customs broker to propose a tariff classification for your goods and estimate duty payable, based on the product description and specification you provide. Final classification is a matter of law applied to the actual goods; where the description changes or is ambiguous, classification may be revised, which can change the duty payable.
5. Documentation issued per consignment
- Commercial invoice and packing list.
- Bill of lading or air waybill.
- Certificate of origin where applicable to a preferential tariff claim.
- Inspection report, where inspection was arranged for that order.
6. What sits with Open Dock and what sits with you
Open Dock manages sourcing, specification, inspection, freight booking and coordination of customs clearance through our broker. Unless your order confirmation states otherwise, you are the importer of record: you are legally responsible for the accuracy of the customs declaration made in your name, for holding any product-specific approval your business requires, and for duties, taxes and charges payable on import. We rely on the product information you confirm to us to prepare documentation.