EU Machinery Regulation 2023/1230: what changes from 20 January 2027
The Machinery Regulation replaces the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and applies directly in all EU member states from 20 January 2027 – with no transition period for machines placed on the market afterwards.
No credit card required – 30 days free, ends automatically.
The most important changes at a glance
For special machine builders and plant engineering companies, the main shift is in what has to be documented and proven.
Regulation instead of directive
There is no national transposition any more. The requirements apply uniformly and directly throughout the EU – differences in interpretation between member states disappear.
Cybersecurity & protection against corruption
Machines must be protected against corruption that leads to hazardous situations – including via remote access. Safety-related software and its version must be documented.
Digital instructions for use
The instructions may be provided digitally. If requested at the time of purchase, they must be supplied on paper free of charge.
Substantial modification
Anyone who modifies a machine so that new hazards arise is considered the manufacturer – with all obligations. Relevant for retrofits and conversions.
High-risk machinery
For certain categories listed in Annex I, a conformity assessment by a notified body is mandatory – self-assessment is no longer sufficient there.
Technical documentation
Annex IV defines what belongs in the technical documentation. It must be kept for at least 10 years after placing on the market and presented to the authorities on request.
This overview is not legal advice. The text of Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 in the Official Journal of the EU is authoritative.
What belongs in the CE file of each machine
- General description of the machine and its intended use
- Overall and detailed drawings, circuit diagrams
- Risk assessment with the protective measures taken
- Description of the safety functions and the safety-related software
- Evidence of protection against corruption
- Applied standards and test reports
- Instructions for use
- EU declaration of conformity
- Acceptance protocols (FAT/SAT) and handover
How MaschPilot helps
Every machine gets a CE checklist according to Annex IV, linked to the documents of the project. Every item is done, open or not applicable – visible to the whole team.
- Checklist per machine, right on the order
- Link drawings, circuit diagrams and evidence
- Sign FAT/SAT protocols on a tablet, as PDF
- As-built parts list with serial number at handover
The software supports the documentation but does not replace the conformity assessment. Responsibility remains with the manufacturer.
Your benefits for the CE file
This turns an obligation into a process that runs along with every order.
No last-minute rush before shipping
The technical documentation is built up during the order – not in the week the machine leaves the building.
A clear list of what is required
Checklist per machine according to Annex IV of Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 – including the new items on safety-related software and protection against corruption.
All evidence in one place
Drawings, circuit diagrams and test reports are linked straight from the project documents instead of being searched for in folders and emails.
Progress visible to everyone
Every item is done, open or not applicable – with a person responsible and a due date.
Signed acceptance as proof
Sign FAT and SAT protocols on a tablet and file them as PDF – helpful for later liability questions, too.
Exact record of what was delivered
The handover creates the machine record with serial number and as-built parts list – the basis for spare parts and service.
Retention made easy
Everything stays stored per machine and supports the required retention period of 10 years.
Ready for 20 January 2027
From this day on the Machinery Regulation applies without a transition period – with MaschPilot you are prepared.
No credit card required – 30 days free, ends automatically.
Your roadmap to January 2027
Review your portfolio
Which machines will be placed on the market after 20 January 2027? Which fall under Annex I?
Update templates
Adapt risk assessment, instructions for use and declaration of conformity to the new requirements.
Software & security
Document safety-related software, versions and protective measures.
Embed the process
Keep the CE file with every order instead of collecting it just before shipping.
Secure acceptance
FAT/SAT signed and archived, handover with serial number.
The CE file grows with the order – not just before shipping.
Start with your next project. Free for 30 days.
No credit card required – 30 days free, ends automatically.