RCM Compliance Checklist for Automotive Tool Importers

The working checklist for getting an automotive diagnostic tool (or any workshop electronics) RCM-compliant for Australia and New Zealand. Run it before you commit to an order — every item is cheaper to fix at the quotation stage than at the border. Full context in the RCM compliance guide.

1 — Scope the Product

• List every electrical characteristic: mains connection, chargers/adaptors in the box, battery type, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/other transmitters
• Identify each item that needs its own assessment (the tablet AND its mains charger)
• Note the exact model numbers and hardware versions you will import

2 — Audit Factory Evidence

• Request all existing test reports (EMC, radio, electrical safety) for your exact models
• Verify model numbers on reports match the quotation — reject “similar model” reports
• Check standard editions are current and AU/NZ-recognised
• Verify the test lab is credible (accreditation, traceable report numbers)
• Confirm the Wi-Fi/BT module and battery in the report match the current BOM

3 — Close the Gaps

• Commission missing tests (China lab or local — decide on cost vs regulator familiarity)
• Assemble the technical file: reports, photos, label artwork, manual, declarations
• Lock the BOM in your supplier agreement — component swaps invalidate evidence

4 — Register and Mark

• Register as responsible supplier in the applicable database(s) BEFORE applying the mark
• Apply the RCM to product/packaging/manual as permitted for your device class
• Add your responsible-supplier identity to the labelling
• Send final label artwork to the factory and approve a photo sample before mass production

5 — Maintain

• File the technical pack where it can be produced on request, and keep it for the required retention period
• Re-check evidence on every hardware revision, battery change or radio module swap
• Diarise an annual review of registrations and standards editions