CERTIFICATE OF GRADE
The International Cannabis and Hemp grading process includes product classification, sampling, quantitative and qualitative inspection and analysis, quality verification, and data collection. Each of these steps contain specialized criteria specific to each product category and its relevant quality attributes.
​
With the qualitative and quantitative assessments completed by an ICHS-certified independent grading service, a Certificate of Grade (COG) is then issued for the product.
Certificate of Grade Example
When the final inspection is complete the inspector generates an ICHS Certificate of Grade and labels the certified material with an ICHS sticker, if necessary. The customer who requested the certification service receives a Certificate of Grade with a full summary of the data and the final score.
Grade
The grade is based on the average of the four qualitative attributes.
Expiration Date
This is determined by how the product is packaged and stored. Our COG is more accurate the closer it is to the grading date. They expire as cannabis and hemp material degrade due to exposure to heat, oxygen, and light.
Appraisal
Target price and price range are based on real-time transactional market data. We don't set the price -- the market does.
Product Code
This is created by combining the three core characteristics.
Example: Indoor, Hand Trimmed, A-Flower
Product Code: IDHTAF
Lab Data
From Certificate of Analysis (COA) to pesticide panels, our COG includes and reports on the results of any tests that have been performed on the material. If tests have not been performed, then that is reported instead of the results.
Attributes
Aroma, Color, Structure and Trichomes are all graded using a 100-point qualitative assessment. For more information see, Section 3 on the ICHS page.
Characteristics
Environment, Process, Product. Combining these together creates 125 very specific product types of plant material.
Defects Assessment
Utilizing technology, a keen eye and a wealth of experience, our grading specialists identify defects including pests, mold and more.
Learn More
For more detailed information about the ICHS quality attributes and grading process, please write to us at contact@ichstandards.org to initiate your membership and receive access to the Full Process overview with specialized criteria specifics.