IFS Logistics Certification

ENSURING PRODUCT QUALITY AND SAFETY IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Retailers increasingly demand full transparency across the global supply chain, along with clear evidence of how suppliers meet these requirements. However, traditional quality assurance practices have often overlooked the critical phases of product transport and storage on the way to the end consumer. Until recently, there was no internationally recognized standard specifically designed to address logistics activities and services based on shared criteria.

WHAT IS THE IFS LOGISTICS STANDARD?

IFS Logistics is a standard designed for companies that provide logistics services such as transportation, warehousing, loading and unloading of both food and non-food products, as well as related services (e.g. basic selection and manual packaging of fresh produce, application of customer labels, etc.).

The standard applies to all modes of transport road, rail, sea, and air and covers frozen, refrigerated, and ambient-stable products (liquid, solid, or gaseous). It is also applicable to service providers involved in ambient temperature logistics, freezing and thawing operations, basic fruit ripening processes, and simple handling and packaging of fresh produce. Additionally, it covers logistics companies that outsource their transport and/or warehousing activities to third-party providers.

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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF IFS LOGISTICS CERTIFICATION?

  • Enhanced Food Safety
    The certification helps strengthen food safety practices across your logistics operations, ensuring better control and traceability throughout the supply chain
  • Operational Efficiency
    By streamlining processes and aligning with recognized standards, companies can reduce both time and costs in their interactions with suppliers and retailers
  • Market Recognition
    IFS Logistics certification demonstrates compliance with the quality expectations of trading partners, offering a competitive edge in national and international markets
  • Brand Credibility
    Displaying the IFS logo signals a strong commitment to quality and safety, reinforcing trust with clients and stakeholders.

FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE IFS LOGISTICS CERTIFICATION

  • What Is the Difference Between IFS Logistics and ISO 22000 Certification?

    IFS Logistics is a standard specifically designed for auditing logistics service providers handling food and non-food products. It aligns with current EU regulations, including traceability requirements, and is assessed through a structured checklist of 96 questions. Each question is reviewed individually, and the final result is categorized into performance levels, such as Basic or Higher Level.

    In contrast, ISO 22000 takes a broader, process-oriented approach to food safety management. It emphasizes preventive measures and risk-based thinking, focusing on the effectiveness of food safety systems across the organization. The outcome of an ISO 22000 audit is binary pass or fail based on compliance with the standard’s requirements.

    While IFS Logistics is more prescriptive and tailored to the logistics sector, ISO 22000 was developed by an international working group to harmonize global food safety standards and is applicable across the entire food supply chain.

  • Which Areas Are Covered by IFS Logistics Certification?

    IFS Logistics applies to all logistics-related activities, including loading, unloading, transportation, handling, and distribution. The standard is designed to be flexible and applicable across all modes of transport—whether by land, air, or sea—and covers both temperature-controlled and non-refrigerated goods. It ensures that safety and quality requirements are maintained throughout the entire supply chain, regardless of the type of product or transport method used.