The ISO 9001 certification fees can vary depending on various factors but generally fall into two main categories: external and internal costs.
Let’s break it down in detail.
Table of Contents
Cost of ISO 9001 Certification | External Cost
The ISO 9001 certification fees includes:
Certification body fees
- Initial Certification Audit Cost
- Surveillance Audit Cost
- Re-Certification Cost
Certification Body Fees
The certification body that will audit and certify your Quality Management System (QMS) will charge you these fees. The cost will vary based on the size of your company, the number of locations, and the complexity of your operations. The certification body fees include – Certification Audit Cost, Surveillance Audits Cost, and Re-Certification Audit Cost.
Initial Certification Audit Cost
The initial certification audit is conducted by the certification body to assess the company’s compliance with ISO 9001 standards requirements. The Initial certification audit cost ranges from $2,000 to $9,000 depending on the size and complexity of the company.
Surveillance Audits Cost
The annual surveillance audits are conducted to maintain certification after the initial certification audit. Surveillance audit costs are usually less than the initial audit but are still an important factor to consider. The cost range around $1,000 to $2,000 per year. After the two annual surveillance audits (SA1 and SA2), a re-certification audit is required to maintain the certification.
Re-Certification Audit Cost
After three years, a full re-certification audit is required to maintain ISO 9001 certification. This is normally similar to the initial certification audit and can vary from $2,000 to $7,500.
Cost of ISO 9001 Certification | Internal Cost
The internal ISO 9001 certification cost includes:
- Initial Gap Analysis cost
- Consultant Fees
- Employee Training cost
- QMS Development and Implementation cost
Initial Gap Analysis Cost
Many companies conduct an initial gap analysis before going through a certification process. Gap analysis is generally carried out to compare their current processes with ISO 9001 requirements. You can do this gap analysis internally or by hiring consultants, which could range from $1,000 to $4500 depending on the scope of the work.
Consultant Fees
Many organizations hire external consultants to help them through the certification process. Depending on the duration and complexity of the project, consultant fees can range from $100 to $300 per hour or a total package of $5,000 to $20,000.
Employee Training
To meet ISO 9001 requirements, employees must be trained in the new system and procedures. Training costs typically vary from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the workforce size and training faculty (Internal or External trainer).
QMS Development and Implementation cost
The largest internal cost is the time and resources utilized in developing, implementing, and maintaining your Quality Management System. This involves staff time for training, documentation, and process development. Depending on the size of the organization and the complexity of its operations or functions, this could range from $5,000 to $40,000.
Summary of ISO 9001 Certification Fees
The cost of ISO 9001 certification body over the 3-year certification cycle includes:
- Small Companies: Total costs typically range from $5,000 to $15,000.
- Medium-Sized Companies: Costs range from $15,000 to $40,000.
- Large Companies: Costs can exceed $40,000.
ISO 9001 Certification Body
Here are list of some most recognized and reputable ISO 9001 certification bodies:
- British Standards Institution (BSI) Group
BSI is one of the most recognized and reputable certification bodies globally. They provide ISO 9001 certification services and have a strong presence in several industries. - DNV GL (Det Norske Veritas)
DNV GL offers certification services across various industries and is especially well-known for its work in the energy and maritime sectors. - TUV Rheinland
TUV is an international provider of technical services and certifications. It is well-regarded for its rigorous standards and global reach. TUV Nord and TUV SUD are also well-recognized and reputable certification bodies. - Societe Generale de Surveillance (SGS)
SGS is a leading inspection, verification, and certification company with a global presence, known for its extensive experience in ISO certification. - Intertek
Intertek is also a global certification body that offers ISO 9001 certification, known for its expertise in product testing and quality assurance activities.
How to select the right ISO 9001 Certification Body?
Choosing the right certification body is essential to ensuring the credibility and validity of your ISO 9001 certification.
Here are some key factors that you need to consider:
- Accreditation
- Reputation
- Industry Experience
- Geographic Presence
- Timeliness
- Cost
Accreditation
While selecting the certification body, you must ensure that it is accredited by a reputable accreditation body, such as:
- United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS)
- ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) in the U.S.
- German Accreditation Body (DAkkS)
- Joint Accreditation System of Australia and New Zealand (JAS-ANZ) Accreditation guarantees that the certification body follows international standards and is recognized globally.
Reputation
Choosing a certification body with a strong reputation and professionalism is important. Read reviews and check its client portfolio, if necessary.
Industry Experience
Some certification bodies focus on particular sectors. Selecting a body with expertise in your industry ensures a more seamless certification process since they will be aware of the particular difficulties faced by your company.
Geographic Presence
If your organization operates in multiple locations or countries, then select a certification body that has a global presence or provides services in all the locations where your business operates.
Timeliness
Take into account how fast the certification body can schedule and carry out audits. Due to increased demand, certain bodies can have lengthier lead times, which could cause your certification procedure to be delayed.
Cost
Obtaining quotations from many certifying bodies is crucial since certification fees differ throughout bodies. But keep in mind that the cheapest option might not necessarily provide the best credibility or service.
ISO 9001 certification benefits
The potential benefits of implementing QMS standard based on ISO 9001 requirements are:
- Improved customer satisfaction.
- Enhanced Quality, Productivity, and Work Efficiency.
- Reduced Costs of Poor Quality and Waste
- Increased Business Opportunities
- Better Risk Management-addressing risks and opportunities, and effective planning of actions to mitigate them.
- Provide the products and services consistently that meet all legal compliance and customer requirements.
- Provide the right direction to achieve organizational objectives and goals.
- Engaging employees for continual improvement in products, processes, and services.
- Global Recognition and Credibility
- Better Supplier Relationships
- Compliance with Regulatory Requirements
- Employee Satisfaction and Engagement
- Stronger Internal Communication
- Continuous Improvement in the Product, Processes, and Services
Conclusion
Despite the upfront costs, ISO 9001 certification generally pays off in the long run by enhancing operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and marketability. It’s an investment that can lead to better business prospects, enhanced reputation, and long-term profitability.
