Typical implementation timeline: 6–18 months, depending on the size, complexity, and readiness of your organization.
Your Path to SCS 9001 Certification
SCS 9001 certification demonstrates that your organization has implemented a robust, process-based supply chain security management system aligned with the requirements of the standard.
Whether you’re beginning your implementation or preparing for your certification audit, the process follows a series of well-defined steps designed to help organizations achieve and maintain certification.
Certification Process
Six step process for achieving and maintaining supply chain security certification
Begin by understanding the requirements of SCS 9001 and how they apply to your organization.
Recommended resources include:
- SCS 9001 Handbook
- Authorized training
- Implementation Guidance
- Optional consulting support
Create your organization’s profile in the TIA QuEST Forum Registration Management System (RMS).
Registration initiates TIA’s review process and establishes the record that will ultimately support your certification.
As part of this process, TIA verifies organizational eligibility in accordance with its Government Restrictions Policy before authorizing organizations to proceed with certification. Organizations determined to be ineligible cannot continue in the certification process.
Choose an authorized SCS 9001 Certification Body (CB) early in your implementation journey.
Your Certification Body will:
- Define the audit scope
- Determine certification parameters
- Plan the audit schedule
- Conduct certification assessments
All SCS 9001 Certification Bodies are accredited through TIA’s certification framework and employ qualified auditors who meet rigorous competency requirements.
Evaluate your current processes against the requirements of SCS 9001.
This preparation typically includes:
- Conducting a gap analysis
- Implementing required processes
- Addressing identified gaps
- Training employees
- Performing internal audits
- Completing management reviews
The goal is to ensure your supply chain security management system is fully implemented before the certification audit.
Your Certification Body conducts an independent assessment to verify that your organization conforms to the requirements of SCS 9001.
If nonconformities are identified, they must be addressed before certification can be awarded.
Upon successful completion of the audit, the Certification Body approves your certification and updates your registration within the TIA Registration Management System.
Your organization is then officially recognized as an SCS 9001 Certified Organization.
Certification is an ongoing commitment.
Organizations maintain certification through:
- Annual surveillance audits
- Continual improvement activities
- Periodic management reviews
- Three-year recertification audits
These activities help ensure continued conformance and demonstrate an ongoing commitment to trusted supply chain security practices.
Program Fees
Organizations pursuing SCS 9001 certification should plan for:
- TIA Registration Administration Fee (non-QuEST Forum participants only)
- Training and implementation costs (as applicable)
- Certification Body audit fees
Before You Begin
To help ensure a successful certification journey, TIA recommends that organizations:
✓ Understand the SCS 9001 requirements
✓ Complete authorized training
✓ Select a Certification Body early
✓ Conduct a gap assessment
✓ Allocate appropriate implementation resources
Need Help Getting Started?
Whether you’re evaluating SCS 9001, preparing for implementation, or ready to begin certification, TIA can help guide you through the process.
Questions? Contact the TIA Supply Chain Security team for assistance with registration, Certification Bodies, training, or certification requirements.
Contact Us at supplychainsecuirty@tiaonline.org