WHAT IS ISO 28001 CERTIFICATION? A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR LOGISTICS & MANUFACTURING FIRMS

6th Feb, 2026

Supply chains operate across multiple locations, partners and handover points, making them inherently exposed to security risks. Goods move through warehouses, transport hubs, customs zones and third-party facilities, each stage introducing the possibility of theft, tampering, unauthorized access or process failure. For logistics providers and manufacturing organizations, these risks are not limited to physical losses. They directly affect delivery reliability, contractual compliance, customer trust and regulatory standing.

As supply networks expand and become more interconnected, managing security through informal controls or isolated procedures becomes ineffective. Organizations require a structured system that identifies supply chain security risks, assesses their impact and applies consistent controls across operations. ISO 28001 addresses this requirement by providing a formal framework for supply chain security management.

This blog explains what ISO 28001:2022 certification is, why it is required, who needs it and how logistics and manufacturing firms can implement it effectively to strengthen supply chain risk management.

WHAT IS ISO 28001 CERTIFICATION?

ISO 28001 is an international standard that specifies requirements for a Supply Chain Security Management System. It provides organizations with a structured approach to identify security risks within the supply chain and implement controls to manage those risks effectively. The standard applies to all organizations involved in the movement, storage, production, or handling of goods, regardless of size or industry.

The purpose of the ISO 28001 standard is to ensure that security risks across the supply chain are systematically identified, assessed and controlled. It focuses on protecting goods, infrastructure, information and personnel from intentional and unintentional security threats. This certification integrates security management into everyday operational processes rather than treating it as a activity.

This certification refers to formal third-party verification that an organization’s supply chain security certification conforms to the requirements of the ISO 28001 standard.

Understanding Supply Chain Security Risks

Supply chain security risks arise from multiple sources and often extend across organizational and geographic boundaries. As goods move through warehouses, transport networks, customs points and third-party facilities, gaps in physical security, process control, partner alignment and information access can expose organizations to theft, tampering, data misuse and operational disruption. Without a structured security framework, these risks remain fragmented and difficult to control consistently across the supply chain.

Common supply chain security risks include:

Physical Security: Risks such as theft, pilferage, cargo tampering and unauthorized access to warehouses or transport vehicles, particularly for high-value, sensitive or export shipments.
Process and Documentation: Gaps caused by inconsistent procedures, incomplete records and limited traceability, which weaken security controls and hinder incident investigation.
Third-party and Logistics: Vulnerabilities where freight forwarders, transporters, customs agents and warehouse operators follow differing security practices, creating exploitable gaps.
Information and access control: Risks involving unauthorized access to shipment data, routing details, or inventory systems, enabling fraud, diversion, or manipulation of goods.

WHO NEEDS ISO 28001 CERTIFICATION?

ISO 28001 certification is relevant for organizations whose operations involve multiple handovers, external partners and extended logistics networks where security risks cannot be controlled through internal processes alone. When goods, information and responsibility move across locations, service providers and borders, gaps in security oversight can result in theft, tampering, unauthorized access and contractual or regulatory non-compliance. It provides a structured supply chain security management system that helps such organizations identify security exposures, apply consistent controls and maintain accountability across the entire supply chain.

Logistics & Transportation Companies

Logistics and transportation companies operate at the centre of supply chain movement and are directly exposed to security risks at multiple stages. Freight forwarders, warehousing and distribution providers and multimodal logistics operators handle goods during storage, transit and cross-border movement, often involving several third-party interfaces. ISO 28001 certification helps these organizations manage security risks related to cargo handling, storage and transportation by establishing consistent security controls, defined responsibilities and documented procedures across operations.

Manufacturing Firms with Extended Supply Chains

Manufacturing firms with complex supply networks face security risks that extend beyond their production facilities. Export-oriented manufacturers, OEMs and tier suppliers depend on inbound and outbound logistics partners for raw materials and finished goods movement. This reliance increases exposure to disruptions, theft and security incidents outside direct organizational control. This standard supports secure supply chain management by extending security requirements to logistics interfaces and external partners, ensuring that security controls remain effective across the full supply chain.

Organizations Handling High-Value or Sensitive Goods

Organizations involved in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, electronics and defence sectors operate under heightened security expectations due to the value, sensitivity, or regulatory nature of their products. These goods are more susceptible to theft, diversion and unauthorized access during storage and transportation. ISO 28001 certification helps such organizations manage these risks through structured security risk assessment, controlled access and documented procedures, while supporting compliance with customer, regulatory and contractual security requirements.

WHAT ARE THE ISO 28001 REQUIREMENTS

The requirements for establishing and maintaining a Supply Chain Security Management System that systematically addresses security risks across logistics and manufacturing operations are:

General Requirements of ISO 28001

Establish a Supply Chain Security Framework: Organizations must define a structured framework that governs how supply chain security is managed across logistics, transportation, storage and third-party activities. This includes defining the scope of the supply chain security management system, identifying security boundaries and determining interfaces with logistics partners and service providers. The framework ensures that security controls are applied consistently across all supply chain stages rather than in isolation. A well-defined framework supports coordinated and secure supply chain management.
Assign Security Roles and Responsibilities: ISO 28001 requires organizations to clearly assign roles and responsibilities related to supply chain security management. Accountability must be defined for conducting security risk assessments, implementing controls, managing incidents and monitoring performance. This ensures that security responsibilities are not fragmented across departments or vendors. Clear ownership strengthens operational control and reduces gaps in logistics risk management.
Conduct Security Risk Assessment: Organizations must carry out a structured security risk assessment covering physical security, logistics operations, third-party involvement and information access across the supply chain. This process identifies threats such as theft, tampering, unauthorized access and diversion of goods. Risks must be evaluated based on likelihood and impact to prioritize control measures. Regular reassessment is required to reflect changes in supply chain structure or operating conditions.
Implement Risk Mitigation Controls: Based on identified risks, organizations must implement appropriate risk mitigation in supply chain and controls. These controls may include access restrictions, cargo handling procedures, monitoring mechanisms and third-party security requirements. Controls must be proportionate to the level of risk and consistently applied across logistics operations. Effective control implementation supports secure supply chain management and minimizes disruption.
Monitor Security Performance: ISO 28001 requires organizations to monitor the effectiveness of implemented security controls through inspections, reviews and defined performance checks. Monitoring ensures that controls remain effective as logistics routes, partners, or operational conditions change. Performance data helps identify weaknesses before they result in security incidents. Continuous monitoring strengthens long-term supply chain security and operational reliability.
Manage Security Incidents and Nonconformities: Organizations must establish processes to respond to supply chain security incidents and identified nonconformities. This includes investigating root causes, implementing corrective actions and preventing recurrence of similar incidents. Effective incident management reduces ongoing exposure to logistics security risks. It also demonstrates control and accountability during audits and regulatory reviews.
Review and Improve the Security System: Top management is required to periodically review the performance of the supply chain security management system. Reviews must consider audit results, incident trends, risk assessment outcomes and changes in supply chain operations. The objective is to ensure continued suitability and effectiveness of security controls. This requirement supports continual improvement and long-term resilience.

Documented Requirements of ISO 28001

Documented Supply Chain Security Policy: Organizations must maintain a documented supply chain security policy that defines their commitment to managing security risks across logistics and manufacturing operations. The policy should outline security objectives, governance approach and alignment with regulatory and contractual requirements. It serves as the foundation for the supply chain security management system. Auditors use this document to verify leadership intent and direction.
Risk Assessment and Risk Treatment Records: ISO 28001 requires organizations to maintain records of security risk assessments and risk treatment decisions. These records must show identified supply chain security risks, evaluated impact and likelihood and selected mitigation measures. Documentation ensures transparency in how risks are managed and supports consistent decision-making. It also provides evidence of structured supply chain risk management during audits.
Documented Procedures for Security Controls: Organizations must document procedures related to security controls such as access management, cargo handling, incident response, monitoring and third-party security requirements. These procedures ensure consistent application of controls across locations and logistics partners. Documented procedures reduce dependency on individual practices and support secure supply chain operations. Controlled documentation is essential for audit readiness.
Training and Awareness Records: Records must demonstrate that employees and relevant personnel involved in logistics and supply chain activities are trained on security requirements. This includes awareness of security risks, control procedures and incident reporting responsibilities. ISO 28001 standards training records help verify that security controls are effectively implemented at the operational level. They also support consistent behaviour across the supply chain.
Internal Audit and Management Review Records: It requires documented evidence of ISO 28001 internal audits and management reviews related to the supply chain security management system. These records must show evaluation of control effectiveness, identification of gaps and decisions for improvement. Audit and review records demonstrate governance oversight and continual improvement. They are critical during ISO 28001 certification audits.
Incident and Corrective Action Records: Organizations must maintain records of supply chain security incidents, investigations and corrective actions taken. These records provide traceability of how security breaches or weaknesses were addressed. Documented corrective actions demonstrate accountability and learning from incidents. This evidence is essential for maintaining secure supply chain management and audit compliance.

IMPLEMENTING THE ISO 28001 STANDARDS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION:

Implementing ISO 28001 requires a structured, risk-based approach that aligns supply chain security controls with actual operational exposure. For logistics and manufacturing organizations, implementation must address physical movement of goods, third-party interfaces, documentation flow and accountability across locations. The following steps outline a practical approach to implementing a Supply Chain Security Management System in line with standard requirements.

Supply Chain Mapping and Exposure Analysis: The first step involves mapping the complete supply chain to identify where goods, information and responsibility transfer between parties. This includes internal operations, logistics partners, warehouses, transport routes and cross-border interfaces. Mapping helps organizations identify security exposure points were theft, tampering or unauthorized access may occur. A clear understanding of supply chain structure is essential for effective supply chain risk management.
Security Risk Assessment: Organizations must conduct a structured security risk assessment covering physical security risks, logistics operations, third-party involvement and information access. Risks should be evaluated based on likelihood and impact to prioritize control measures. This assessment forms the foundation of ISO 28001 implementation and supports informed decision-making for risk mitigation. Regular reassessment ensures risks remain controlled as operations evolve.
Control Definition and Implementation: Based on identified risks, organizations must define and implement appropriate risk mitigation controls across the supply chain. Controls may include access restrictions, cargo handling procedures, monitoring mechanisms and third-party security requirements. These controls must be practical, proportionate and consistently applied across logistics and manufacturing operations. Effective control implementation strengthens supply chain security and reduces operational disruptions.
Documentation and Awareness: ISO 28001 requires organizations to document security policies, procedures and risk treatment measures. Documentation ensures consistency and provides evidence of control implementation. At the same time, employees and relevant personnel must be made aware of their security responsibilities through structured training and communication. Awareness ensures that documented controls are applied correctly in day-to-day operations.
Internal Audit and Corrective Actions: Organizations must conduct internal audits to evaluate conformity with ISO 28001 requirements and assess the effectiveness of security controls. Audit findings should be analysed to identify gaps or nonconformities. Corrective actions must be implemented to address root causes and prevent recurrence. This step strengthens audit readiness and supports continual improvement of the supply chain security management system.
Certification Audit Preparation: The final step involves preparing for the ISO 28001 certification audit by ensuring that controls are implemented, documentation is complete and records are available. Organizations must demonstrate effective supply chain security management in practice, not just on paper. Successful certification confirms that security risks are systematically managed and controlled across logistics and manufacturing operations.

BENEFITS OF ISO 28001 CERTIFICATION

ISO 28001 certification delivers measurable value by strengthening how organizations manage supply chain security across logistics and manufacturing operations. The benefits go beyond risk reduction and support consistent, auditable and resilient supply chain performance.

Reduced Supply Chain Disruptions: ISO 28001 helps organizations identify security risks before they result in theft, tampering, delays, or loss of goods. By applying structured security risk assessment and defined controls at key exposure points, disruptions are addressed proactively. This reduces unplanned interruptions across transportation, warehousing and cross-border movement. Consistent controls improve delivery reliability and operational continuity.
Stronger Control Over Logistics Risks: The standard provides a clear framework for logistics risk management, ensuring that risks related to cargo handling, storage and third-party operations are systematically controlled. Defined responsibilities and documented procedures reduce dependence on informal practices. Organizations gain better visibility and control over how security is managed across logistics partners. This leads to more predictable and secure supply chain operations.
Improved Partner and Customer Confidence: It demonstrates that an organization follows a recognized supply chain security management system. Customers, logistics partners and stakeholders gain confidence that security risks are identified, managed and reviewed on an ongoing basis. This assurance is particularly important for organizations handling high-value or regulated goods. Certification strengthens trust and supports long-term business relationships.
Better Regulatory and Contractual Compliance: Many logistics and manufacturing contracts require evidence of secure supply chain practices. ISO 28001 supports compliance by providing documented controls, monitoring and review mechanisms aligned with security expectations. Organizations are better prepared to meet regulatory, customer and insurance requirements related to secure supply chain management. This reduces the risk of penalties, disputes, or contract losses.
Consistent Security Practices Across Locations: For organizations operating across multiple sites or regions, these standards establish uniform security practices. Standardized procedures and controls ensure that supply chain security is managed consistently, regardless of location or service provider. This consistency reduces gaps caused by varying local practices. It also simplifies oversight, internal audits and ISO 28001 audit readiness.
Improved Visibility and Traceability: It strengthens visibility by requiring organizations to define and document how goods move across the supply chain and where security controls are applied. This improves traceability across logistics stages, third-party handovers and storage locations. Clear records and defined processes make it easier to track incidents, investigate deviations and demonstrate control during audits. Enhanced visibility supports more effective supply chain risk management and faster response to security issues.
Stronger Audit Readiness: ISO 28001 certification prepares organizations for internal and external audits by establishing structured controls and documented evidence for supply chain security. Regular monitoring, internal audits and management reviews ensure that security risks are reviewed at the leadership level. This reduces last-minute audit preparation and improves confidence during ISO 28001 audits. Strong oversight also supports continual improvement and long-term resilience of supply chain operations.

How Does 4C Consulting Help Organizations Achieve ISO 28001 Certification?

Achieving ISO 28001 certification requires a clear understanding of supply chain security risks and structured implementation aligned with international requirements. With 4C Consulting by your side, organizations receive comprehensive support for ISO 28001 implementation, training and audit readiness across logistics and manufacturing operations. Our experienced consultants bring over 20+ years of expertise to help organizations establish effective supply chain security management systems. Supported by partnerships with 50+ certification bodies and a proven track record of serving 1000+ clients and 500+ certification globally, 4C Consulting enables organizations to achieve and maintain ISO 28001 certification with confidence, strengthening secure supply chain management and long-term operational resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the difference between ISO 28000 and ISO 28001?

ISO 28000 defines the overall requirements for a supply chain security management system, providing the high-level framework for managing security risks. ISO 28001 supports ISO 28000 by offering detailed guidance on implementing, maintaining, and improving those security controls in practice. In simple terms, ISO 28000 sets the requirements, while ISO 28001 explains how to apply them effectively.

Is ISO 28001 certification mandatory for logistics or manufacturing companies?

ISO 28001 certification is not legally mandatory; however, it is increasingly required by customers, global buyers, insurers, and regulatory bodies as evidence of secure supply chain management. Organizations operating in high-risk logistics environments or export-driven manufacturing often adopt ISO 28001 to meet contractual and compliance expectations.

How does ISO 28001 help reduce supply chain disruptions?

ISO 28001 helps organizations identify security risks across transportation, warehousing, and third-party interfaces before they result in theft, tampering, or delays. By applying structured security risk assessment and defined controls, organizations reduce unplanned disruptions and improve overall supply chain reliability.

Can ISO 28001 be implemented with existing ISO certifications like ISO 9001 or ISO 27001?

Yes, ISO 28001 is designed to integrate with other ISO management systems such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 27001 (Information Security Management). Integration helps organizations avoid duplication of controls, streamline audits, and manage supply chain security within an existing management system structure.

How long does it take to achieve ISO 28001 certification?

The timeline for ISO 28001 certification depends on the size of the organization, complexity of the supply chain, and existing security controls. For most logistics and manufacturing organizations, implementation and certification typically take a few months when supported by a structured approach and readiness planning.

What type of organization benefits most from ISO 28001 certification?

ISO 28001 is particularly beneficial for logistics companies, export-oriented manufacturers, OEMs, and organizations handling high-value or sensitive goods. Businesses with extended supply chains and multiple third-party interfaces gain the most value by strengthening security controls and improving audit and compliance readiness.