EN 10204 3.1 vs 3.2 Certificates: What the Difference Means for Buyers
Published 9 November 2026
EN 10204 defines the types of inspection documents for metallic products. Buyers of pipe, plate, forgings and fittings see four of them on purchase orders.
| Type | Name | Who validates | Test results based on |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.1 | Declaration of compliance with the order | Manufacturer | No test results |
| 2.2 | Test report | Manufacturer | Non-specific inspection (production data) |
| 3.1 | Inspection certificate | Manufacturer’s authorised inspection representative, independent of manufacturing | Specific inspection of the products supplied |
| 3.2 | Inspection certificate | Manufacturer’s representative and the purchaser’s representative or an inspector designated by regulations | Specific inspection of the products supplied |
When is 3.2 needed?
A 3.2 certificate is usually specified for critical service: high-pressure or sour service piping, offshore materials, nuclear and some PED applications. It costs more because a second inspector has to attend the tests, so it is worth asking whether 3.1 with a witness point in the ITP is enough.
How to arrange a 3.2 certificate in China
- State the 3.2 requirement and the inspection body in the purchase order.
- Ask the manufacturer for the test schedule and the heats or lots to be certified.
- The third-party inspector attends sampling, specimen marking and testing, then signs the certificate with the manufacturer’s representative.
The most common problem is late notice: tests are run before the inspector is booked, and the certificate cannot be issued as 3.2. Agree notification dates when the order is placed.
In short
What is an EN 10204 3.1 certificate?
An inspection certificate 3.1 is issued by the manufacturer. It reports results of specific tests on the products supplied and is validated by the manufacturer's authorised inspection representative, who must be independent of the manufacturing department.
What is an EN 10204 3.2 certificate?
An inspection certificate 3.2 is validated by both the manufacturer's authorised inspection representative and the purchaser's authorised representative or an inspector designated by official regulations. It needs an independent inspector to witness the tests.
Can a 3.2 certificate be issued after the tests are done?
No. The second signatory must have witnessed or verified the specific inspection. The inspection has to be arranged before testing, so a 3.2 requirement must be stated in the purchase order.