There are many reasons you may decide to change your ISO Certification body including price, customer service and expertise.
This blog will guide you through the process of transferring your ISO certificate to a new certification body without compromising your business’s credibility.
Do You NEED to Transfer Your ISO Certification?
Before starting the transfer process, you should consider the reasons behind the decision to change your certification body.
Common reasons might include unsatisfactory back-office service from the current certification body, an auditor conflict, better offerings from a different certification body, or even a strategic business decision.
It may be easier to resolve the issues with your current certification body rather than transferring your certificate. Contact our team to help you resolve issues with your Certification Body or act as a mediator.
However, if you do decide that changing ISO certification body is required, understanding the motives will help you make the right choice and ensure a successful ISO certification transfer. Contact us for free advice that will help you understand the ISO Certification market and make the right choice.
Researching and Selecting a New Certification Body
Researching ISO Certification market is essential when selecting a new certification body to ensure that it aligns with your business requirements.
We recommend using accredited certification bodies. In the UK certification bodies are accredited by UKAS where are other accreditation bodies service other countries, find out more: ISO Accreditation Bodies Around the World.
There are many things to consider when selecting a certification body including cost, expertise, reputation and geographical location.
Transferring a Non-Accredited Certificate
Unfortunately, transferring a non-accredited certificate to an accredited certification body is not possible. The new certification body will need to conduct a full stage 1 and stage 2 certification audit.
Read our blog: How do I Move my ISO Certification to a UKAS Accredited Body?
Selecting a New ISO Certification Body
The new ISO Certification Body should adhere to your current certification schedule, subject to the scope remaining the same, as this is governed by the accreditation body.
However, you will require a valid certificate with no open non-conformances to enable the new certification body to take on your audits.
The new certification body will ask for copies of your certificate and previous audit reports as a minimum.
It is best to provide as much information as possible to enable the new certification body to make a smooth transfer.
Informing Your Current Certification Body
When you have selected a new certification body and entered into an agreement, you should notify your current certification body about your decision to transfer.
This step ensures a smooth transition and helps you adhere to any contractual obligations, such as notice periods.
Schedule the ISO Certification Transfer Audit
During the certification transfer audit, the new certification body will assess your organisation’s compliance with the relevant ISO standards. Demonstrate your commitment to quality and adherence to the ISO requirements during this audit. Address any queries raised by the auditors professionally and confidently.
This may be conducted on-site or remotely using the reports and documentation you have provided.
Completion of ISO Certification Transfer
If your organisation continues to meet the ISO standards and satisfies the requirements of the new certification body, they will issue your new ISO certificate and manage your certificate from now on.
Congratulations! Your ISO certification transfer process is complete, and your business can now proudly display its renewed commitment to quality and compliance.
Conclusion
Transferring your ISO certificate to a new certification body in the UK requires careful planning and execution. By conducting thorough research, preparing your documentation, and collaborating closely with the new certification body, you can successfully navigate the ISO certification transfer process. CertBodies.co.uk provides impartial advice on the ISO Certification market. Contact us for support with your ISO Certificate Transfer.