compliance · 5 min read

GRS certification: what it proves and how to check it

GRS is not a claim about the fabric being green. It is a chain-of-custody standard that verifies recycled content and traces it from the recycler to the finished product.

By Weft Bridge · Reviewed by our Guangzhou sourcing team · Updated 2026-11

What it covers

Recycled content: the percentage of pre- or post-consumer recycled material.
Chain of custody: every stage from recycler to garment is certified and audited.
Chemical restrictions: a restricted substances list applies to the certified product.
Social and environmental criteria at the processing units.

The two documents that matter

The scope certificate (SC) proves that a supplier is certified to produce GRS goods. The transaction certificate (TC) proves that a specific shipment contained the stated recycled content.

A scope certificate on its own does not cover your order. Ask for the TC that matches your invoice, and check the quantity and the product description on it.

Where claims break down

A supplier shows a certificate held by a different company.
The certificate has expired — they are renewed annually.
The TC covers a different product or a different quantity.
Recycled content is claimed below the threshold the standard requires for the logo.

FAQ

What is the minimum recycled content for GRS?

A product needs at least 20% recycled material to be GRS certified; the GRS logo requires at least 50%.

Is GRS the same as RCS?

No. RCS (Recycled Claim Standard) verifies recycled content but has fewer environmental and social requirements.