In textile exports the pair of label and test report determines the entry of the product into the market. A wrong declaration of fibre composition counts as misleading the consumer, while missing care symbols put the use of the product at risk. In this field translation works from a list of mandatory information.
Fibre composition declaration
The fibres in the product are stated in descending order of percentage and under defined names. The fibre names come from the regulation and are not chosen freely. The order cannot be changed.
Fibre names
Defined names are used for natural and man-made fibres, and trade names do not take their place. If there is a trade name, it may be given in addition. The mandatory name prevails.
Percentage tolerances
The acceptable deviation in the declared percentages is defined and is compared with the analysis. The tolerance wording is preserved. The values are carried over.
Care symbols
Washing, drying and ironing instructions are shown by symbols, and the symbols are international. The symbols are not translated. The explanatory text is translated.
Temperature indications
The washing temperature is given as a figure inside the symbol and reflects the durability of the product. The values are preserved. The integrity of the symbol is not broken.
Colour fastness tests
The resistance of the colour to washing and rubbing is measured and graded. The grading scale is defined. The values are carried over.
Dimensional change tests
The rate of shrinkage after washing is measured and compared with the limits. The rate is given as a percentage. The method number is preserved.
Strength values
Tensile and tear strength are given in the test reports and show the quality of the fabric. The units are preserved. The values are carried over.
Weight per unit area
The weight of the fabric per square metre is a basic property and appears in the order specification. The unit is preserved. The value is carried over.
Width and tubular form
The fabric width and the form in which it is wound affect the delivery conditions. The dimensions are given with their units. The information is not skipped.
Harmful substance tests
Limits are defined for the chemicals used in textiles, and compliance is shown by tests. The substance names and the limits are carried over. The method is preserved.
Origin information
The place of production is stated on the label and matters for preferential trade. The country name is translated. The information is preserved.
Size charts
Sizing systems differ from country to country, and conversion tables are given. The table structure is preserved. The values are not converted.
Order specifications
The buyer defines the fabric properties in a specification, which becomes the acceptance criterion. Item names are translated consistently. The values are carried over.
Sample approval processes
Sample approval is obtained before production and is tracked through correspondence. The sample numbers are preserved. The approval dates are put on record.
Social compliance audits
Buyers audit the production conditions and issue a report of findings. The classification of findings is fixed. The closure records are tracked.
Sustainability certificates
The use of recycled or certified fibre is shown by a document. The name of the body and the certificate number are carried over. The scope is preserved.
The costliest mistake in this sector
Replacing a fibre name with a trade name takes the declaration outside the mandatory naming, and the label counts as non-compliant. Even though the product is the same, a problem arises at customs or in an inspection. Fibre names are taken from the mandatory list.