TC Application Timeline Guide
The Transaction Certificate (TC) is a critical step to ensure compliant product circulation and smooth delivery. However, many companies face issues with certificate issuance and order fulfillment due to unfamiliarity with TC application timelines. Based on the official standard “ASR-104-V3.1 Policy for Transaction Certificates” issued by Textile Exchange, here’s a clear breakdown of the TC application timeline.
I. Core Prerequisite: Basic Requirements for TC Issuance
The seller must hold a valid Scope Certificate (SC) on the corresponding shipment date in order to apply for a TC.
Scope Certificates that are suspended, withdrawn, or expired cannot be used as a basis for TC issuance.
II.Key Rules: TC Application Timeline Based on Shipment Date & SC Validity
The TC application timeline is calculated from the earliest shipment date and divided into three strict time windows:
Timeline Overview
0–90 days after earliest shipment date
→ Certification body must issue the TC upon receiving a complete and valid application
91–180 days
→ Certification body may issue the TC at its discretion
181+ days
→ TC cannot be issued, unless specific exception conditions apply (see below)
After Scope Certificate Expiry or Withdrawal
0–30 days (seller not certified by another certification body)
→ TC can still be issued
31–90 days (same condition)
→ TC issuance is at the certification body’s discretion
91+ days
→ TC cannot be issued
Critical Point
If applying after 180 days, a TC can only be issued if one of the following conditions is met:
a. An exemption is granted by Textile Exchange
b. The input TC was issued at a later stage, and the TC application is submitted within 60 days after receiving the upstream TC
c. Within 365 days from the earliest shipment date, and the TC only includes:
- Product categories: PC0032, PC0034
- Raw materials: RM0003, RM0007, RM0060, RM0064, RM0079, RM0083
d. Within 365 days, the certification body can directly verify transport documents via a third-party logistics provider (e.g., public carrier, shipping company) or government authority
e. Within 365 days, all products listed in the TC are final products
III. Practical Compliance Tips for Companies
1-Act within the 90-day golden window to avoid risks
2-Ensure complete documentation before submission to prevent delays
3-Confirm SC validity on the shipment date before applying
4-Plan ahead for late applications—if exceeding 180 days, prepare exemption conditions and supporting documents in advance
5-Strictly follow the 365-day limit for final products or specific raw materials—no exemptions beyond this period
Stay compliant, simplify your processes, and ensure smooth delivery by keeping these timelines in check.
About Cotecna Kaixin Certification
Beijing Cotecna Kaixin Certification Co., Ltd. ("BCK") is a third-party certification body accredited by CNAS and ANAB. Focusing on providing certification services covering quality and safety, agri-food products, intellectual property, information security, energy, and sustainability, we have served over 20,000 clients, and remains committed to delivering premium and efficient service to clients, contributing to economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility.