Introduction:
When brand ambition meets the UL certification barrier
“Why can others showcase their own brand alongside the UL mark on the same product, while I get warned for non-compliance?” — This is the frustrating reality many traders face.

This is a growing concern for many trading companies working with photocell light control products. In this article, we reveal the lesser-known UL Private Labeling mechanism, helping you retain brand ownership while remaining 100% compliant with UL standards.
I. The Fatal Pitfalls of Traditional Practices
❌ Common Violations
Directly replacing the original model number
➤ Consequence: Immediate invalidation of the UL certificate; product blacklisted.
Combining the client logo with the UL mark without authorization
➤ Example: A company merged the client’s logo with the UL mark in the product design. Result? A lawsuit from UL demanding $28,000 in compensation.
Concealing manufacturer identity
➤ Risk: Customs detention rate jumps to 72% (According to UL market surveillance data from 2023).
🔍 Top 3 Focus Areas During UL Audits
Visual consistency between markings and UL file
Traceability of model numbers
Permanent visibility of manufacturer information
This is especially strict in dusk-to-dawn photocell switches.
II. The Breakthrough: UL Private Label Authorization
✅ Option 1: Fully Compliant Path (Recommended)
Ideal for: Open-market sales / Public tenders
How It Works:
A[Sign tripartite agreement] –> B[Submit client’s brand info]
B –> C[UL Review (3-4 weeks)]
C –> D[Pay modification fee ($500+)]
D –> E[Receive revised UL report]
E –> F[Manufacture with client-specific labeling]
Example Label:
UL Listed E492075
Model: LT-104 (Fully customized)
Brand: [Your Client’s Logo]
120-277V AC 50/60Hz
Date Code: 202504
Ideal for blue:UL-listed photocell products sold through Amazon, Home Depot, and public utility projects.
✅ Advantages:
Client brand is officially recorded in UL’s public database
Product can legally claim “UL Certified Brand”
Customs documentation matches perfectly
⚠️ Option 2: Limited Use Path (Use at Your Own Risk)
Ideal for: Internal use / Non-public distribution
Example Label:
[Your Client’s Logo]
Model: INTERNAL-USE
UL Listed E492075
Original Model: LT-645
(Other parameters unchanged)
⚠️ Risks:
Certification revoked if found by UL during inspection
Product listing removed from platforms like Amazon
III. The Golden Rules of Private Labeling
1.Model Naming Rules
Type | Correct Example | Incorrect Example |
Base Model | LT-605 | LT605 |
Client Version | CLIENT-LT605 | LT605-PRO |
2.Marking Area Allocation
[Front of Product] [Client’s Brand Logo] Model: [Client’s Model Name]
[Back/Bottom of Product] UL Listed E492075 Original Manufacturer: [Your Company Name]
(Other technical parameters)
3.Cost Comparison Table
Option | Upfront Cost | Annual Fee | Applicable Market |
Private Labeling | $500+ | $2,000 | Global Public Sales |
Non-Public Use Only | $0 | $0 | Internal Use Projects |
IV. Success Story: From OEM to Brand Recognition
Background:
A cross-border e-commerce client wanted to sell their own brand in Home Depot.
Goal: Launch custom blue:photocell light sensor under own label on Home Depot
Solution:
Applied for UL Private Label Authorization (completed in 3.5 weeks)
Updated UL certificate on Amazon product listings
Trained client team to verify products via UL’s Online Certification Directory
Results:
Achieved 30% higher product-photocell markup
Entered 3 new distribution channels within six months
V. Your Next Action Steps
📞 Book a Consultation:
Fast-Track UL Document Processing (72-hour response)
Free Pre-Approval Compliance Review
🔔 Important Reminder:
Starting in 2024, UL is increasing its market inspections. Unauthorized brand usage will be prioritized for enforcement actions.
Conclusion:
Within the UL certification system, brand independence and compliant use of the UL mark are not mutually exclusive. By making proper use of the private label mechanism, your brand can confidently shine in global markets — fully compliant and rightfully leveraging the value of UL certification.
If you’re planning to launch your own branded photocell products, feel free to contact us — the Lead Top team(leaditop.com) is ready to assist you through the entire process!