Changing your ISO certification body does not necessarily mean starting the certification process over.
An ISO certification transfer allows a certified organization to move its existing certification from one certification body to another, provided the applicable requirements are met.
But when does a transfer make sense?
5 Reasons a Company May Consider an ISO Certification Transfer
1. You’re Looking for a Different Certification Body
A company may decide to change certification bodies because its current provider no longer meets its expectations for communication, scheduling, responsiveness, or overall service.
Transferring certification can provide an opportunity to work with a certification body that better fits the organization’s needs.
2. Your Certification Body Is No Longer a Good Fit
As a company grows, its certification needs may change.
You may need a certification body with experience across additional standards, locations, or more complex operations.
A transfer can allow your organization to choose a certification partner that better supports its current certification requirements.
3. You Want a More Efficient Certification Process
Scheduling and communication are important parts of maintaining certification.
If coordination with your current certification body consistently creates unnecessary delays or difficulties, transferring may be worth considering.
The goal should be a certification process that is clear, structured, and predictable.
4. Your Organization Has Changed
Business changes can affect certification needs.
Expansion into new locations, organizational restructuring, acquisitions, or changes in the scope of operations may lead a company to reassess its certification arrangements.
A transfer can be part of that broader review.
5. Your Certification Is Approaching Its Next Audit
A company does not necessarily need to wait until its certification expires to transfer.
Depending on the circumstances and applicable requirements, organizations may transfer their certification during the certification cycle.
Planning the transfer around an upcoming surveillance or recertification audit can help make the transition more organized.
Is Transferring ISO Certification the Same as Getting Certified Again?
No.
A certification transfer is different from starting a new certification process.
The receiving certification body reviews the existing certification and relevant information to determine whether the certification is eligible for transfer and what steps are required.
The exact process depends on the certification, its status, and applicable accreditation requirements.
For this reason, organizations should discuss the transfer with the new certification body before making the change.
What Should You Check Before Transferring?
Before beginning an ISO certification transfer, consider:
- Is your current certificate valid?
- Is the certification scope still accurate?
- Are there any outstanding nonconformities?
- When is your next audit scheduled?
- Is the certification body you are considering accredited for the applicable standard and scope?
- What information will be required for the transfer?
Having this information available can make the process smoother.
When Is the Right Time to Transfer?
There is no single best time for every organization.
However, reviewing your options before the next scheduled audit can give you more time to understand the requirements, confirm eligibility, and plan the transition.
The important thing is not simply choosing a different certification body. It is making sure the new certification arrangement fits your organization’s current needs and certification requirements.
Considering an ISO Certification Transfer?
At ISO Certifications Group (ICG), we provide accredited ISO certification services for organizations looking to establish, maintain, or transfer certification.
If you are considering changing certification bodies, our team can help you understand the certification transfer process and the information needed to get started.
Explore ISO certification transfer with ICG and take the next step toward a clear certification process.
About The Author
Oscar Combs is the President of ISO Certifications Group, a certification body headquartered in Houston, Texas. With over 31 years of experience in the field, he is recognized as an expert in management systems that help organizations manage risk and improve operational efficiency.
ISO Certifications Group
ISO Certifications Group is an accredited ISO certification body that certifies ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and ISO 50001 Management Systems for organizations. Contact us at info@isocertificationsgroup.com for more information or www.isocertificationsgroup.com.
