Unlock Global Markets: Prefabricated Building Testing & Certification with ICTT

As the global construction industry rapidly industrializes, prefabricated buildings have emerged as a new frontier for global expansion, thanks to their efficiency and environmental benefits. However, varying entry requirements across different countries pose the primary challenge for companies "going global." As a technical service provider deeply rooted in building compliance, ICTT leverages years of hands-on experience to help you navigate the core market access requirements.

What is a Prefabricated Building?
According to the U.S. National Institute of Building Sciences, a prefabricated/modular building is one where major components are designed and manufactured in a factory, then rapidly assembled on-site.


Classification of Prefabricated Structures:
Type Characteristics Typical Applications
1D Linear components (beams, columns) Prefabricated beams & columns
2D Panelized components (walls, floors) SIP walls, CLT panels
3D Volumetric modules Prefabricated bathrooms, complete housing units

U.S. Market: Multi-Tier Compliance Mechanism
The U.S. market access framework for prefabricated buildings primarily includes:
IBC/IRC Building Codes
State-Specific Regulations
Local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) Field Inspection
Compliance Guide for Complete Buildings:
Design Phase: Finalize structural system and material selection
Regulatory Review: Ensure design complies with IBC/IRC + state codes
Engineering Evaluation: Provide structural engineer’s certification for special designs
Product Certification: Demonstrate compliance via ICC-ES ESR/ESL reports
Factory Certification: Registration or third-party audit (e.g., ICC NTA) required in some states
AHJ Site Inspection: Focus on foundation connections, sealing, MEP interfaces
Ongoing Compliance: Re-evaluation for major changes; 1–2 annual audits

Components and materials shall comply with standards referenced in IRC Chapter 44.


Canadian Market: CSA A277 as the Core Standard
CSA A277: Procedure for Factory Certification of Buildings, Modules and Panels – covers factory quality systems, product inspection, audits, and in-plant acceptance for modular buildings of various materials.

Product design must comply with:
National Building Code of Canada (NBC) / CSA Z240 MH Series
Canadian Electrical Code (CEC)
National Plumbing Code & Energy Codes

EU Market: Focus on CE Marking
The EU requires all construction products and prefabricated units to meet:
Construction Products Regulation (CPR)
EN 1090 Series (for steel & aluminum structures)
CE Marking + Declaration of Performance (DoP)
Australia & New Zealand Market: CodeMark Certification
Key Requirements:
No mandatory whole-building certification
Component-level certification required: ▶ CodeMark Certificate (e.g., windows, walls)

ICTT: Your One-Stop Compliance Partner for Global Prefab Expansion
ICTT has established long-term partnerships with international certification bodies such as BV, ICC-ES, ICC-NTA, CSA, and CMI. With extensive practical experience and resources, we provide end-to-end services—from design review and product testing to factory audit and certification—ensuring smooth and efficient entry of prefabricated building products into global markets.

Our Services Include:
Design review & technical support for overseas prefab projects
Material & structural component testing (ASTM/EN/AS standards)
Factory certification consulting & quality system development
We look forward to collaborating with prefab manufacturers, developers, and exporters to help Chinese products enter the mainstream global prefabricated building market.
For more information on certification processes and services, please contact our expert team.