The 4C Verification System

The 4C Verification System aims at helping 4C verifiable entities (4C Units) to know where they are with regard to the 4C Code of Conduct implementation and keep the momentum on the continuous improvement path. The verification service is performed by professional independent third-party verifier companies approved by the 4C Association.

A 4C Unit can be established at any stage of the coffee supply chain with two basic pre-requisites:
  • Production volume: minimum of 20 tons (or one container) of green coffee
  • Management capacity: a person/ group of persons managing the 4C Unit to implement the 4C Code of Conduct



The 4C Verification Process starts when the 4C Unit sends their completed documentation to the 4C Secretariat. The documentation includes the self-assessment, business partner mapping and an organisational chart of the entire 4C Unit.

The verification will then be arranged by the 4C Secretariat with approved 4C Verifier Companies operating in the region or country of the 4C Unit.

The verification is fully paid by the 4C Association.



Do you want to establish a 4C Unit and receive 4C Verification?
Please start with the 4C Step-by Step Brochure and the guiding “basic documents”:

Basic documents about 4C Verification
  • Self-Assessment
    The Self Assessment is the basis for producers' evaluation of their social, ecological and economic practices.
  • Code Implementation Guidance
    The Code Implementation Guidance explains producers how 4C Verification takes place.
  • Business Partner Mapping
    The Business Partner mapping is a tool for internal monitoring. The 4C Unit is requested to list all actors involved in the 4C supply chain.

For further information and verification please contact the
4C Secretariat: verification@4c-coffeeassociation.org



4C Verification Facts
  • Discover the status quo of 4C Verification
    4C Verification Map

How to create a 4C Unit
  • 4C Step by Step
    The Road to Joining the 4C System

Additional infos about 4C Verification
  • List of Verifiers
  • Verification Rate list
  • Verification Scheme
    Provides a detailed overview of the 4C verification being part of the 4C System.
  • 4C Addendum Verification
    Explains how to proceed in case new Business Partners need to be integrated into a 4C Unit