First check official recognition for the appropriate scheme and geographical area. Then assess auditor competence, the certification process, accreditation status and the transparency of the quotation.
1. Check official recognition
The body should appear in the current RecyClass list for the scheme you need. Recognition for one scheme does not automatically authorise it to carry out all the others.
2. Check the geographical scope
If the site to be certified is outside the certification body's home country, make sure its status and competence allow it to conduct the process in that region.
3. Distinguish scheme recognition from accreditation
RecyClass recognition and accreditation by a national accreditation body are different concepts. If accreditation matters to a customer or contract, check the current accreditation scope for the specific service.
4. Ask about auditor competence
A competent auditor should understand the technology relevant to the scope: sorting, recycling, converting, traceability, material balances and, where appropriate, packaging design.
5. Assess the transparency of the process
The quotation should clearly identify the scope, stages, expected work, fees, travel arrangements and elements determined by the scheme owner. An unclear quotation increases the risk of changes during the project.
6. Check impartiality
A certification body should not make the outcome dependent on the commercial relationship or design solutions for a client that it will later assess itself. Rules on conflicts of interest should be clearly defined.
7. Compare more than the price
Price differences may reflect different scopes, audit durations or cost inclusions. Compare quotations based on the same scope and assumptions.
Key takeaway
A good certification body should have the appropriate formal status, technical competence and a predictable process. A certificate has value when it is supported by a credible assessment.