Thinking of Switching ISO Registrars? We Answer Common Transfer Questions

If you’ve been scrolling through quality management forums, you likely notice a pattern. Whether you notice a thread in a forum or you take a deep dive into an industry message board, the conversation about transferring ISO certification is usually a mix of “I’m over the high fees” and “I’m terrified the process will be a nightmare.”

We get it. Changing your registrar feels a bit like switching banks – you know it might save you money and headaches in the long run, but the thought of the paperwork and the “what ifs” keeps you from making the change.

At Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR), we’ve seen it all. We don’t want to be another certificate on your wall; we are a partner in your growth. To help with your decision process, we’ve taken the most common (and sometimes stressful) questions from the forums and answered them through the PJR lens.

Question: Is there a ‘transfer fee’ or a ‘joining fee’?
Answer: One of the biggest gripes online is the “hidden cost” of moving. Some registrars might hit you with a “file setup fee” that can cause you a lot of stress.

We believe in transparency at PJR, and we acknowledge that transfers are disruptive. While every situation is unique based on your industry and standard, PJR focuses on a value-driven approach to limit disruption.

• Transfers are nuanced, and we complete scoping with you
• To limit disruption we perform the transfer audit free of charge
• For other costs, we offer free, no-obligation quotes that break down exactly what you’re paying for including certification and maintenance fees

No surprise fees and no hidden costs. We provide straightforward pricing so you will see your ROI from day one.

Keep in mind that if there were any major nonconformities that were not closed out from a previous audit, those will need to be resolved before a transfer can be done or you may need to start over with a fresh audit. Of course, if this is the case we will inform you ahead of time so there are no surprises.

Question: Can I transfer mid-cycle, or do I have to wait?
Answer: There is a common myth that you are “locked in” until your three-year recertification audit. The reality is that you can move whenever you want!

According to the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated (GACI, formerly known as IAF) rules found in IAF MD 2, you are able to transfer during a surveillance year or a recertification year.

If you’re unhappy with your current service or auditor, there’s no reason to wait. We step in, review your existing documentation, and work into your current audit cycle.

Question: Will my current registrar ‘retaliate’ if I leave?
Answer: This is a frequently mentioned statement in forums.  Accredited certification bodies must facilitate seamless transfers.

Professionalism is the backbone of our business. While PJR can’t control other registrars, we ensure your move to PJR is handled with total discretion. Our goal is a seamless hand-off.  You simply need to let your certification body know that you will be transferring. We handle everything from there.

Question: Do I have to start from scratch (Stage 1 & Stage 2)?
Answer: Starting over is the ultimate deal-breaker for most business owners and Quality Managers.

If your current certificate is valid and accredited by a recognized body (like ANAB or UKAS), you do not have to start over. It is a transfer, not a new certification. We perform a “Pre-Transfer Review” (essentially a document check) to make sure everything is in order, and then we simply take over the remaining cycle of your audit program. As mentioned above, if you have any unresolved major nonconformities the process may not be a simple transfer. Of course, we’ll let you know ahead of time.

Question: How much ‘overlap’ is required? I don’t want my cert to lapse.
Answer: The fear of a “gap” in certification will cause a great deal of stress to CEOs and keep Quality Managers up at night. Especially if your customers require proof of ISO status to stay on the bid list.

PJR’s dedicated scheduling team is obsessed with timelines. We recommend starting the conversation at least 60-90 days before your next scheduled audit. This gives us plenty of time to review your files and issue your new PJR certificate . That means no gaps, no lapses, and no panicked emails to your customers.

Question: Are your auditors actually going to add value, or just check boxes?
This is a common complaint in online forums. The statements go something like, “Our auditor has been coming for 10 years and adds zero value.”

Answer: This is where PJR truly shines. We utilize a Process Performance Auditing (PPA) method. We don’t look for “shalls” in a manual; we look at how your processes drive your business. Plus, with our global network of industry-experienced auditors, we match you with someone who understands your specific sector, whether that’s aerospace, medical devices, or cybersecurity.

The PJR Difference: When you call us, you talk to a real person. No automated loops, no “we’ll get back to you in three weeks.” From your first quote to your 20th surveillance audit, you have a dedicated project manager by your side.

Ready to stop “registrar shopping” and start partnering?
Contact PJR today at (248) 422-3013 or email pjr@pjr.com to receive a free quote and learn how to transfer your certificate to a new registrar.