BRCGS Storage and Distribution Certification

What is the BRCGS Storage and Distribution Standard?

The BRCGS Storage and Distribution Standard provides a globally recognised framework for ensuring the safety, legality, and quality of products during warehousing and transportation. Whether you’re handling food, packaging, or consumer goods, this certification demonstrates your commitment to best practice in logistics and supply chain operations.

Developed by BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards), this standard applies to:

  • Warehousing and storage facilities
  • Transport and logistics providers
  • Cross-docking operations
  • Contract packing and fulfilment services

It covers key areas such as hygiene, pest control, traceability, temperature management, and risk assessment—ensuring products remain safe and compliant throughout the supply chain. Businesses can tailor the scope to suit their operations, and optional Additional Modules are available for areas like wholesalers, e-commerce, inspection, and waste management.

Clause 2: Hazard and Risk Assessment (HARA)

A key component of the BRCGS Storage and Distribution Standard is Clause 2, which focuses on Hazard and Risk Assessment (HARA) and Prerequisite Programmes (PRPs). This clause requires businesses to systematically identify, assess, and control risks that could compromise product safety, legality, or quality.

What is HARA?

HARA is a structured approach to identifying potential hazards throughout the product flow—from receipt and storage to dispatch and transport. It is based on HACCP principles and Codex Alimentarius guidelines, adapted for logistics and distribution environments.

Organisations must:

  • Identify all potential hazards, including microbiological, physical, chemical, allergenic, and malicious contamination
  • Implement control measures to mitigate identified risks
  • Document the HARA plan, including monitoring procedures and corrective actions
  • Review the risk assessment annually, or sooner if significant changes occur

Clause 2.1: Prerequisite Programmes

Before conducting a hazard analysis, the standard requires that Prerequisite Programmes (PRPs) are in place. These are foundational controls that support the effectiveness of the HARA system.

Examples of Prerequisite Programmes include:

  • Building and equipment maintenance
  • Safe handling, storage, and transport procedures
  • Waste, damage, and returns handling protocols
  • Allergen management procedures
  • Pest control programmes
  • Approval of subcontractors and service providers
  • Sanitation and cleaning procedures
  • Cold chain and environmental controls
  • Personal hygiene standards
  • Staff training and competency
  • Any additional controls from voluntary modules

 

These programmes must be documented, monitored, and reviewed as part of the HARA plan. They form the baseline for controlling hazards and are essential for demonstrating compliance during audits.

Why is Certification Important?

Achieving BRCGS Storage and Distribution Certification offers a range of strategic benefits:

  • Regulatory Compliance – Aligns with UK and international legal requirements
  • Customer Assurance – Demonstrates your commitment to quality and safety
  • Supply Chain Confidence – Builds trust with retailers, manufacturers, and partners
  • Market Access – Opens up opportunities with major retailers and global brands
  • Risk Management – Helps identify and mitigate potential issues before they impact operations
  • Retailer Requirements – Many UK supermarkets and global brands require BRCGS certification from their logistics partners.

What Companies Would Typically Need BRCGS Storage and Distribution?

The BRCGS Storage and Distribution Standard is relevant to a wide range of companies involved in the logistics, warehousing, and transportation of products, especially those handling food, packaging, and consumer goods. Here are the types of companies that would typically need this certification:

  • Warehouse and storage providers
  • Transport and distribution companies
  • Retail and Wholesale Distributors
  • Contract Packers and Fulfilment Services
  • Packaging and Consumer Goods handlers
  • Importers, Exporters, and Cross-Docking Operators

How Long Does Certification Take To Get?

The full certification process typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on your current level of compliance and readiness. This includes preparation, training, internal audits, and the formal certification audit.

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The Value of ISO Certification

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