How long does ISO certification take for Amazon suppliers?

One of the most common questions we hear from potential clients is simple:

“How long will ISO certification take?”

The honest answer is: it depends, but there are clear, realistic timeframes that Amazon suppliers should understand before committing to certification.

This article explains what typically influences timescales and what a proportionate, credible route to certification looks like.

There is no “instant” ISO certification

ISO certification is not a product that can be purchased off the shelf. It is the result of:

• implementing a management system,

• operating it in practice,

• and being independently audited by an accredited certification body.

Any offer of “instant”, “guaranteed”, or “same-week” certification should be treated with caution - particularly where Amazon has specified accredited certification.

Typical timeframes (as a guide)

For most Amazon suppliers, realistic timescales are broadly as follows:

• Smaller, less complex organisations:

  Typically 2–3 months

  
  

• Medium-sized or more complex organisations:

  Typically 3–5 months

  
  

• Multiple standards or higher-risk activities:

  Often 6 months or more

These are indicative ranges, not fixed rules. The actual timeframe depends on how the business operates and what is being certified.

What affects how long certification takes?

Several factors influence certification timescales, including:

1. Business complexity

Size, number of sites, outsourced activities, and supply-chain complexity all affect implementation and audit effort.

2. Existing processes

Organisations with established processes often progress more smoothly than those starting from scratch.

3. Scope definition

Over-scoping a management system can significantly increase time and cost. A well-defined, proportionate scope is critical.

4. Standard(s) involved

Some standards (such as ISO/IEC 27001) require more structured risk management and evidence than others.

5. Availability of resources

Internal time, decision-making speed, and access to key people all influence progress.

The role of Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits

Accredited ISO certification involves two formal audit stages:

• Stage 1: a readiness and system review

• Stage 2: a full certification audit assessing implementation and effectiveness

There is typically a gap between these stages to allow any issues to be addressed. This gap is normal and should be planned for.

Why rushing certification causes problems

For Amazon suppliers under pressure, the temptation is often to move as fast as possible. In practice, rushing can lead to:

• poorly implemented systems,

• avoidable nonconformities,

• delays between audit stages,

• certificates that don’t reflect how the business actually operates.

  
  

A structured, proportionate approach is usually faster overall than trying to shortcut the process.

Taking a realistic approach

The most effective route to certification is to:

• confirm whether certification is actually required,

• identify the correct standard(s),

• define a sensible scope,

• implement systems aligned to real business processes,

• and plan certification audits realistically.

This approach reduces rework and avoids unnecessary delay.

Support for Amazon suppliers

We support Amazon sellers through the full ISO implementation process, from understanding requirements, through implementation, and through Stage 1 and Stage 2 accredited certification audits.

Further details are available on our Amazon Supplier ISO Support page:

Amazon Supplier ISO Support