The Complete Guide to UL Power Cords for the North American Market (2025 Edition)

The North American market—especially the United States and Canada—has strict safety requirements for electrical appliances and power supply components. Among all electrical standards, UL certification is the most widely recognized and trusted. For manufacturers exporting appliances, LED lighting, computer equipment, or power tools to North America, using a UL-certified power cord is not only necessary but often mandatory. This article provides an in-depth overview of UL power cords, common cable types, safety requirements, testing methods, and what buyers should look for when choosing a reliable UL-certified supplier.

1. What Is UL Certification and Why Does It Matter?

UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is a globally recognized third-party testing organization headquartered in the United States. UL develops safety standards and conducts product evaluations to ensure electrical components meet essential requirements such as fire resistance, insulation strength, conductor integrity, and environmental durability. Since power cords are exposed to long-term bending, pulling, heat, and electrical load, UL certification ensures that the cords can operate safely for years without risk of overheating or electrical failure.

In addition, UL certification provides:

• Credibility for product safety

• Legal compliance for North American imports

• Lower insurance risks for end users

• Higher acceptance from major retailers such as Walmart, Costco, and Amazon

2. Common UL Cable Types and Their Applications

Different product categories require different UL cable constructions. The most commonly used models include:

• SJT / SJTW Power Cords
  Designed for medium-duty applications, widely used in home appliances, industrial tools, and HVAC equipment. The “W” marking denotes weather resistance, suitable for outdoor use.

• SVT / SVTW Power Cords
  A lighter-duty version used for office equipment, lamps, audio devices, and small household appliances.

• SPT-1 / SPT-2 Cords
  Widely used for lighting equipment, holiday string lights, and low-power devices.

• NISPT-1 / NISPT-2 Flat Cords
  Common for lightweight appliances, consumer electronics, and chargers.

3. Key UL Technical Requirements

UL power cords must comply with several technical parameters, including:

• Conductor gauge (AWG)

• Minimum insulation thickness

• Temperature rating (usually 60°C / 105°C)

• Tensile strength and bending resistance

• Flame retardant performance

Any deviation may cause certification failure or product recall.

4. What North American Buyers Care About Most

North American customers typically evaluate suppliers based on the following five criteria:

1. Authenticity of UL File Number
   Buyers will check the UL database (UL Product iQ) to verify supplier legitimacy.

2. Consistency of copper and insulation quality
   Full copper, correct AWG size, and stable PVC formulas are extremely important.

3. Injection molding quality
   A poorly molded plug may crack or expose conductors over time.

4. OEM/ODM capability
   Many customers require customized cable lengths, molding shapes, packaging, or labeling.

5. Long-term reliability and factory stability
   Buyers prefer factories with strong production capacity and quality control systems.

5. Why Choose a Professional UL Power Cord Factory in Dongguan

Companies like Toong Yean Power Connection Co., Ltd. specialize in UL-compliant power cords with decades of manufacturing experience. Located in Dongguan, China’s leading electronics manufacturing center, the factory provides:

• Full UL certification coverage

• In-house molding, copper wire processing, assembly, and testing

• 100% electrical safety inspection

• Competitive pricing with stable quality

• Support for large OEM/ODM orders

• Fast delivery to the US and Canada

6. Conclusion

As North America continues to enforce strict safety standards, UL power cords remain essential for product compliance. Choosing a reliable UL power cord manufacturer ensures long-term safety, better market acceptance, and sustainable international growth.