Top 10 Export Coordinator Certifications

Certifications for an export coordinator demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in the field. They can help an export coordinator stand out when applying for a position and show that they have the necessary skills to be successful in their role. Certifications also provide employers with assurance that the candidate has been trained in best practices and is up-to-date on all applicable regulations. Additionally, certifications are often required by employers to ensure compliance with specific regulations and standards, so having them can make an export coordinator more attractive to prospective employers.

The article reviews the top certifications for Export Coordinators and explains how they can help to advance an export coordinator's career.

What are Export Coordinator Certifications?

Export Coordinator Certification is a certification designed to help individuals working in the international trade industry gain the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective export coordinator. This certification program provides participants with an understanding of the principles, regulations, and procedures related to international trade. It covers topics such as foreign markets, trade finance, import/export regulations, transportation options, documentation requirements, and dispute resolution. It also includes practical advice on how to build successful relationships with customers and suppliers.

The certification can provide several benefits for those who pursue it. Those who become certified have increased job opportunities in the field of international trade and are often more attractive candidates for higher-level positions within organizations. Additionally, they may be able to command higher salaries due to their specialized knowledge and experience in this area. Furthermore, those who become certified may receive discounts on certain services related to international trade or access exclusive events that are not open to non-certified individuals. Finally, becoming certified demonstrates a commitment to professional development that employers value highly when making hiring decisions.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming an Export Coordinator, be sure to investigate the different certifications available in your field. Many organizations offer certification programs that provide specialized training and knowledge in international trade, customs compliance, supply chain logistics, and other related topics. Having a certification may give you an edge in the job market and ensure you have the necessary skills to succeed as an Export Coordinator.

Related: What does an Export Coordinator do?

Top 10 Export Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Export Coordinators today.

1. Certified Export Compliance Officer (CECO)

A Certified Export Compliance Officer (CECO) is a professional who has been certified by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) to provide guidance and advice on export control compliance matters. CECOs are responsible for ensuring that their organizations comply with all applicable export control laws, regulations, and policies, including those of the United States, other countries, and international organizations.

It typically takes six to twelve months to become a CECO after completing the necessary training and passing the certification exam. The training consists of two parts: an online self-study course followed by a two-day in-person seminar. The cost of the training varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $1,500-$2,500 USD. After completing the training and passing the certification exam, applicants must submit an application form to BIS along with a fee of $250 USD. Once approved, CECOs must renew their certification every three years through continuing education courses or retaking the certification exam.

2. Certified Export Specialist (CES)

Certified Export Specialist (CES) is a professional certification that recognizes expertise in international trade and export compliance. It is offered by the National Association of Small Business International Trade Educators (NASBITE). The certification demonstrates to employers, clients, and other stakeholders that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage an export operation.

To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as export regulations, export documentation, shipping procedures, international finance, marketing, and sales. The exam is administered online or at a proctored testing center. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have two years of relevant work experience in the field of international trade or have completed NASBITE’s Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) program.

The cost of the exam varies depending on whether you are taking it online or at a proctored testing center. The online version costs $395 for NASBITE members and $495 for non-members. The proctored version costs $450 for NASBITE members and $550 for non-members. In addition to the exam fee, there is also an application fee of $50 for members and $75 for non-members.

The time required to complete the certification process depends on each individual's study habits and preparation level prior to taking the exam. Generally speaking, it takes about six weeks from when you apply to receive your results from the exam.

3. Certified International Trade Professional (CITP)

Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) is a designation awarded by the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT), an international professional association. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in international trade and business practices.

To become a CITP, you must have at least three years of experience in international trade, demonstrate your knowledge through an exam, and submit a portfolio of your work. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as global economics, finance, marketing, logistics, law and regulations, and risk management. It usually takes about six months to complete the process from start to finish.

The cost of obtaining the CITP designation varies depending on the country in which you are taking the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $600-$800 USD to take the exam and become certified.

4. Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP)

Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Small Business International Trade Educators (NASBITE). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in international trade. The certification requires successful completion of an exam that tests a person’s knowledge of global business practices, principles and concepts.

The CGBP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes three hours to complete. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in international trade or related fields. Applicants must also submit proof of their education, work experience, and references.

The cost to take the CGBP exam is $395 USD for NASBITE members and $495 USD for non-members. The fee includes a study guide, practice exams, and access to online resources. Once the exam has been successfully completed, there is an additional $50 USD fee for processing and issuance of the certificate.

The CGBP certification is valid for five years from the date it was issued. After five years, professionals must retake the exam or apply for recertification through NASBITE's recertification program.

5. Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)

Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) is a professional designation offered by the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers. It is a specialized certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of customs regulations, procedures, and compliance.

The CCS program consists of two components: a comprehensive exam and an experiential component. The exam covers topics such as customs legislation, trade agreements, tariff classification, valuation, origin determination, duty relief programs, and more. To be eligible for the CCS program you must have at least three years of experience in customs brokerage or related fields.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the requirements for becoming a Certified Customs Specialist. The cost to become certified varies depending on the individual’s experience level and can range from $1,000 to $2,500. This includes exam fees and any applicable course fees.

To become certified you must first register with the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB). Once registered you will need to submit an application along with proof of your work experience. After your application has been approved you can then register for the CCS exam which is held twice per year in April and October. Once you pass the exam you will be awarded your CCS designation and can begin practicing as a Certified Customs Specialist.

6. International Trade Certification Program (ITCP)

The International Trade Certification Program (ITCP) is a program that provides certification to individuals and organizations who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully participate in international trade. The program is administered by the International Trade Centre (ITC) and is designed to help companies, governments, and other organizations understand the complexities of international trade.

The ITCP consists of four levels of certification: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Professional. Each level requires completion of a set number of courses as well as passing an examination. Depending on the level of certification desired, it can take anywhere from three months to two years to complete all requirements for certification.

To become certified at any level, applicants must first register with the ITCP by completing an application form available on their website. After registration is complete, applicants must then complete all required courses for their chosen level of certification. Courses are offered both online and in-person depending on location. Upon completion of all courses, applicants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost for each level varies depending on which course option is chosen (online or in-person). The Basic Level costs $500 USD; Intermediate Level costs $1,000 USD; Advanced Level costs $1,500 USD; and Professional Level costs $2,000 USD.

Overall, the International Trade Certification Program (ITCP) provides individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills needed to participate successfully in international trade. It takes anywhere from three months to two years to become certified at any level depending on how many courses are completed and passed examinations are taken. To get certified at any level applicants must first register with ITCP by completing an application form available on their website followed by completing all required courses for their chosen level of certification before taking an exam in order to receive their certification. Lastly, the cost for each level varies between $500-$2,000 USD depending on which course option is chosen (online or in-person).

7. International Logistics and Freight Forwarding Certificate Program

The International Logistics and Freight Forwarding Certificate Program is an educational program designed to help individuals gain the knowledge and skills needed to work in the international logistics and freight forwarding industry. This program typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the student’s availability and commitment.

To get this certificate, students must complete a series of online courses that cover topics such as international trade regulations, customs procedures, tariffs, shipping documentation requirements, insurance policies, and more. The courses are offered by various universities or professional organizations such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or the Institute of International Shipping & Logistics (IISL).

The cost of the program varies depending on which institution offers it. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD. Some institutions may also offer discounts for students who pay in full prior to enrollment.

8. Certified Export Administrator (CEA)

Certified Export Administrator (CEA) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Exporters (NAE). It is designed to provide exporters with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage international trade operations. The CEA certification is recognized as a mark of excellence in the field of international trade.

The CEA program consists of four courses that cover topics such as export regulations, international marketing, logistics and finance. Each course must be completed within one year and requires successful completion of an exam at the end. The courses are offered online or in-person and can be taken at your own pace.

To become certified, you must have at least two years of experience in export management or related fields, or have completed an approved export training program. You must also pass all four exams with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for the CEA program varies depending on whether you take the courses online or in-person. Online courses typically range from $400-$800, while in-person courses may cost up to $2,000. Additionally, there is an exam fee of $50 per exam, which must be paid before taking each exam.

9. Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP)

Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP) is a certification program developed by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to help supply chain professionals gain in-depth knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage global supply chains. The CGSCP certification provides recognition of the mastery of core global supply chain management concepts, including strategic sourcing, logistics, inventory management, and process improvement.

The CGSCP certification requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in global supply chain management. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as international trade regulations, logistics management, risk management, and financial analysis. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes three hours to complete.

To obtain the CGSCP certification, candidates must submit an application form along with proof of their professional experience and pay a fee of $995 USD. After submitting the application form and fee, candidates will receive access to online study materials and can register for the exam at any APICS testing center worldwide.

Once certified, CGSCP holders must renew their certification every three years by completing 30 hours of continuing education or passing another exam.

10. International Trade and Customs Compliance Certificate Program

The International Trade and Customs Compliance Certificate Program is an online program offered by the International Trade Education Institute (ITEEI). The program provides a comprehensive overview of international trade law, customs regulations, and compliance procedures. It covers topics such as export/import regulations, export controls, tariff classification, licensing requirements, and more.

The program consists of six modules that take approximately 24 hours to complete. Participants must successfully pass a final exam in order to receive their certificate. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive an official certificate from ITEEI.

To get the International Trade and Customs Compliance Certificate Program, you must first register for the course on the ITEEI website. You will then be given access to the course materials and be able to start studying right away.

The cost of the program is $299 USD. This fee includes all course materials, access to online resources and support from ITEEI staff members during your studies.

Do You Really Need a Export Coordinator Certificate?

No, you do not need an export coordinator certificate in order to work in the field of international trade. An export coordinator certificate can provide a deeper understanding of the global supply chain and the processes involved in exporting goods and services. However, many employers prefer experience or a degree related to international trade over a certificate.

If you are interested in becoming an export coordinator, it is important to gain knowledge about the topics covered by an export coordinator certificate program such as customs regulations, logistics, and foreign markets. You should also gain experience by working with international customers or suppliers or by researching and analyzing foreign markets.

The benefits of having an export coordinator certification include gaining recognition from potential employers as well as networking opportunities with other professionals in the field. Furthermore, obtaining a certification may give you access to resources that could help you excel in your career.

In conclusion, while having an export coordinator certificate may be beneficial for those interested in this field, it is not necessary for pursuing a career as an export coordinator. Learning more about international trade through research and experience can be just as effective at gaining the knowledge needed for success.

Related: Export Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Export Coordinator Certifications

1. What is an Export Coordinator Certification?

Answer: An Export Coordinator Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals working in the export industry. The certification covers topics such as international trade regulations, customs and tariff laws, export documentation, shipping procedures, and more.

2. How do I become certified as an Export Coordinator?

Answer: To become certified as an Export Coordinator, you must pass a comprehensive exam administered by a recognized certifying body. The exam covers various aspects of international trade regulations and practices, including customs laws and regulations, export documentation requirements, and shipping procedures.

3. Do I need to have experience in the export industry to qualify for certification?

Answer: Yes, some certifying bodies may require applicants to have at least two years of experience in the export industry before they can take the certification exam. However, other organizations may not require prior experience for eligibility.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified varies depending on the certifying body and how quickly you are able to complete their requirements (e.g., passing an exam or completing other educational requirements). Typically, it takes anywhere from six months to one year to obtain your Export Coordinator Certification after you meet all necessary requirements.

5. Is there any continuing education required to maintain my Export Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying bodies require Export Coordinators to complete at least 20 hours of continuing education every two years in order to maintain their certification status. This continuing education helps ensure that coordinators stay up-to-date on changes in international trade regulations and best practices in the industry.