The steps

  1. Determine your audit type — Verification ($1,500-$3,000) or Certification ($4,000-$12,000+)
  2. Determine your registration class — Single Person, Small, Medium, Large
  3. Get quotes from at least 3 Approved Quality Auditors
  4. Add travel costs if you're regional ($500-$2,000)
  5. Add consultancy or DIY documentation cost
  6. Add staff time cost (40-120 hours depending on approach)
  7. Plan cash flow 60 days out — auditors expect prompt payment

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Choosing on price alone (specialisation matters)
  • Forgetting travel and consultancy costs
  • Not planning the staff-time cost