Top 10 External Wholesaler Certifications

Certifications are important for external wholesalers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers value. Certified external wholesalers are able to demonstrate their commitment to the profession, as well as their dedication to staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. Certifications can also give potential employers confidence that an external wholesaler is knowledgeable about the products and services they offer. Additionally, certifications can help external wholesalers stand out from other candidates who may not have the same level of knowledge or qualifications. Finally, certifications can provide external wholesalers with access to exclusive professional networks and resources that can be invaluable in helping them succeed in their careers.

This article reviews the top certifications for External Wholesalers, outlining how they can contribute to career success and growth.

What are External Wholesaler Certifications?

External wholesaler certification is a process by which an external organization or agency verifies the skills, knowledge and experience of a wholesaler. This certification is typically conducted by a third-party organization that specializes in evaluating and certifying wholesalers. The purpose of external wholesaler certification is to ensure that the individual has the necessary qualifications and experience to perform their job effectively and efficiently.

By obtaining external wholesaler certification, a company can be assured that their employees are knowledgeable about all aspects of the business and have the necessary skills to be successful. The certification also allows companies to demonstrate their commitment to quality assurance and customer service, as well as providing an additional layer of credibility for their operations. Finally, it can help attract qualified professionals who may not otherwise consider joining the team due to lack of relevant qualifications or experience.

Pro Tip: When considering an external wholesaler certification program, make sure to research the credentialing organization to ensure they are recognized and respected in the industry. Additionally, inquire about the program's requirements and review any applicable continuing education requirements to keep your certification up-to-date.

Related: What does an External Wholesaler do?

Top 10 External Wholesaler Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to External Wholesalers today.

1. Certified Professional Wholesaler (CPW)

Certified Professional Wholesaler (CPW) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW). The CPW designation recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of expertise in the wholesale distribution industry and have demonstrated their commitment to professional development.

The CPW certification process consists of three steps: completing an online application, passing an exam, and submitting references. The application includes questions about your experience in the industry, as well as a statement of purpose outlining why you are pursuing the CPW designation. Once your application is approved, you will be required to take an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, customer service and sales strategies. After passing the exam, you will need to submit two professional references who can attest to your knowledge and skills in the wholesale distribution field.

The entire process typically takes around four months from start to finish. The cost for the certification is $395 for NAW members and $495 for non-members.

2. Certified International Wholesaler (CIW)

Certified International Wholesaler (CIW) is a certification program that is designed to help businesses become more successful in the international market. It was created by the International Trade Center (ITC) and is recognized by many organizations, including the World Trade Organization (WTO). The CIW certification provides companies with a comprehensive understanding of international trade rules, regulations, and practices. It also helps them identify potential opportunities for growth and expansion into new markets.

The CIW certification process typically takes about three months to complete. It involves completing an online application form, providing documents such as business registration certificates and tax returns, attending an in-person interview with ITC staff, and passing a written exam. Once certified, companies can access resources such as market research reports, trade data analysis tools, and more.

The cost of obtaining CIW certification varies depending on the size of the company and its specific needs. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $2,000 USD to become certified. This cost includes the application fee, exam fee, and any other associated fees or expenses related to the certification process.

In addition to these costs, companies must also pay an annual renewal fee in order to maintain their CIW status. This fee is usually around $100 USD per year.

3. Certified Trade Operations Professional (CTOP)

Certified Trade Operations Professional (CTOP) is a certification program developed by the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA). It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of international trade operations.

The CTOP program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate and Advanced. Each level requires successful completion of an online exam, as well as additional training courses. The Basic level requires 8 hours of training, while the Intermediate and Advanced levels require 16 hours each. All exams must be taken at an accredited testing center.

To get certified, individuals must first register with FIATA and pay the associated fees. Fees vary depending on the level being pursued, but typically range from $200-$400 USD per exam. Once registered, individuals can begin studying for their exams using FIATA-approved study materials. After passing all required exams and completing any necessary training courses, individuals are eligible to receive their CTOP certification.

Overall, it takes approximately 32-48 hours to complete the entire CTOP program depending on which level is being pursued.

4. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). The CSCP credential is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of the end-to-end supply chain management process and its associated technologies. It is intended to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage global supply chains.

The CSCP program consists of three components: an online learning system, an exam, and a certificate. The online learning system covers topics such as supply chain design, planning, execution, monitoring, and optimization. It also provides guidance on best practices for managing the global supply chain. The exam tests your understanding of the material covered in the online learning system.

The CSCP program typically takes about 18 months to complete, depending on how quickly you are able to learn the material and pass the exam. To get started, you will need to register for the program through ASCM's website. Once registered, you will have access to all of the materials needed to complete the program.

The cost of obtaining a CSCP certification varies based on your region and whether or not you are a member of ASCM. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,000-$2,000 USD for non-members and $750-$1,500 USD for members.

5. Certified Export Specialist (CES)

Certified Export Specialist (CES) is a professional certification program offered by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration (ITA). The CES certification is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful international trade practitioners. The program is open to anyone interested in learning more about global trade, including those already working in the field or those just starting out.

The CES program consists of two levels: Certified Export Specialist I (CES I) and Certified Export Specialist II (CES II). To obtain either level of certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as export regulations, export documentation, international marketing, finance and logistics.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the training and prepare for the exam. Applicants can take self-study courses or attend instructor-led classes on export fundamentals through ITA’s approved providers. Once they have completed their studies, applicants must register for and pass a proctored exam administered by an approved provider.

The cost of obtaining a CES certification depends on the type of training taken and whether it is self-study or instructor-led. Self-study courses are typically less expensive than instructor-led courses, but both require an application fee that ranges from $150-$300 depending on the provider chosen.

6. International Trade Certification (ITC)

International Trade Certification (ITC) is a certification process that helps companies to demonstrate their commitment to international trade. It is an accreditation program that provides organizations with the tools and resources they need to meet the standards of international trade, including compliance with laws and regulations, ethical practices, and quality assurance.

The ITC certification process typically takes between three and six months to complete. The specific timeline depends on the size of the organization, its current level of compliance with international trade standards, and other factors. The first step in the certification process is for an organization to submit an application package that includes a detailed description of its operations, financial statements, and other relevant documents. Once this information has been reviewed by ITC experts, they will conduct an on-site assessment of the organization’s operations and procedures. If all requirements are met, then ITC will issue a certificate of compliance.

The cost of obtaining ITC certification varies depending on the size and complexity of the organization’s operations. Generally speaking, it can range from several thousand dollars up to tens of thousands depending on how much work needs to be done in order for the organization to meet all requirements for certification.

In addition to providing organizations with access to global markets through increased credibility and trustworthiness among customers and partners, ITC also offers benefits such as access to training materials and resources related to international trade laws and regulations as well as discounts on products or services related to international trade.

7. Global Supply Chain Management Certification (GSCMC)

Global Supply Chain Management Certification (GSCMC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary for successful global supply chain management. The program is administered by the Global Supply Chain Council (GSCC), an organization dedicated to promoting best practices in global supply chain management.

The GSCMC certification program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 focuses on the fundamentals of global supply chain management, while Level 2 focuses on more advanced topics such as risk management, sustainability, and strategic planning. To earn the GSCMC certification, applicants must pass both levels of the program.

The GSCMC certification process typically takes between three and six months to complete, depending on how quickly applicants can study and prepare for the exams. To get started, applicants must register with GSCC and pay a fee of $495 USD. This fee covers access to all course materials required for both levels of the program as well as two attempts at each level’s exam.

In order to pass each level’s exam, applicants must score at least 70% or higher on a 100-point scale. Upon successful completion of both exams, applicants will receive their GSCMC certificate from GSCC.

8. Certified Logistics Professional (CLP)

Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) is a professional certification program for logistics and supply chain professionals. It is administered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLP certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the core competencies required for successful performance in the field of logistics.

The CLP program requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation management, warehousing and distribution, customer service, and global logistics. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

To qualify for the CLP certification, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in logistics or supply chain management. Applicants may also qualify if they have a bachelor's degree in business or related fields with at least two years' experience in logistics or supply chain management.

The cost of the CLP certification exam is $395 USD for AST&L members and $495 USD for non-members. There are no additional fees associated with obtaining the certification. Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will be awarded your CLP certification which is valid for three years from date of issue.

9. International Business Negotiations Certification (IBNC)

International Business Negotiations Certification (IBNC) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Professional Negotiators (IAPN). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively negotiate in international business settings. The certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s ability to successfully conduct negotiations in global markets.

The IBNC program consists of three levels: Level 1, for those new to international business negotiations; Level 2, for those who have some experience negotiating in global markets; and Level 3, for those who are experienced negotiators. Each level requires successful completion of a set of courses, exams, and practical exercises.

Level 1 requires completion of four courses: Introduction to International Business Negotiations, Cross-Cultural Negotiation Strategies, Global Market Analysis & Strategy Development, and Advanced International Business Negotiation Strategies. Each course includes lectures, readings, quizzes and exams. Upon successful completion of all four courses, participants will receive their Level 1 Certificate from IAPN.

Level 2 requires completion of two additional courses: International Dispute Resolution & Conflict Management and Advanced Cross-Cultural Negotiation Skills & Strategies. These courses include lectures, readings, quizzes and exams as well as practical exercises such as role-playing scenarios. Upon successful completion of both courses participants will receive their Level 2 Certificate from IAPN.

Level 3 requires completion of one final course: Mastering International Business Negotiations & Dispute Resolution Strategies which includes lectures, readings, quizzes and exams as well as practical exercises such as role-playing scenarios. Upon successful completion of this course participants will receive their Level 3 Certificate from IAPN.

The time required to complete the IBNC program varies depending on the individual’s level of experience and commitment to completing the program requirements. Generally speaking it takes between 6 months – 1 year to complete all three levels but this can vary depending on the individual’s progress through the program requirements.

In order to obtain the IBNC certification individuals must apply directly through IAPN’s website or contact them directly via email or telephone for more information about how to apply for the certification program. The cost for each level varies depending on whether you are enrolling in individual courses or registering for all three levels at once but generally speaking it costs around $2,000-$3,000 USD per level or $6-9000 USD for all three levels combined.

10. Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Certification (SSPC)

The Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Certification (SSPC) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It was designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the field of strategic sourcing and procurement. The program consists of a series of courses, exams, and other activities that are designed to help individuals develop their skills in this area.

The SSPC requires applicants to complete three levels of training: basic, intermediate, and advanced. Each level takes approximately two weeks to complete. In order to obtain the certification, applicants must pass all three levels with a minimum score of 70%.

To get started on the SSPC certification process, applicants must first register with ISM and pay an application fee. Once registered, they can begin taking courses online or in-person at one of ISM's regional offices. After completing each course, applicants must pass an exam before progressing to the next level.

The cost for the SSPC varies depending on how many courses you take and whether you take them online or in-person. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1,000 for all three levels of training plus any applicable fees for exams or materials.

Do You Really Need a External Wholesaler Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual situation. If you are a financial professional working with wholesalers, then having an external wholesaler certificate may be beneficial to you. It is important to understand that having a certificate does not guarantee success in the industry, but it can help demonstrate a level of knowledge and understanding of the industry that can be helpful when networking and job searching.

Having an external wholesaler certificate shows that you have taken the time and effort to learn about the industry, which can be valuable when interacting with other financial professionals. It also demonstrates that you are committed to learning more about the field and staying up-to-date on changes in regulations, trends, products, and services. This may give employers confidence in your ability to handle complex tasks related to their business operations.

In addition, having an external wholesaler certificate could give you access to exclusive resources such as training materials or discounts on products or services offered by certain companies. This can help save money and increase efficiency for your business operations.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an external wholesaler certificate will depend on your current situation and goals. If you believe that obtaining one would give you a competitive edge over other professionals in the field or provide access to resources that would benefit your business operations, then it may be worth exploring further.

Related: External Wholesaler Resume Examples

FAQs About External Wholesaler Certifications

1. What is an external wholesaler certification?

Answer: An external wholesaler certification is a credential that recognizes the knowledge and experience of a sales professional working in the financial services industry. It demonstrates that the individual has met certain standards of excellence and understands the complex regulations governing their work.

2. How do I get certified as an external wholesaler?

Answer: In order to become certified, you must meet certain requirements such as completing an approved training program, passing an exam, and having a minimum level of experience in the field. Additionally, you may need to maintain continuing education credits in order to remain certified.

3. What are the benefits of becoming an externally certified wholesaler?

Answer: There are many benefits to becoming externally certified, including increased credibility among clients and potential employers, access to better job opportunities, and higher salaries. Additionally, it can help you build your professional network and gain valuable industry insights.

4. Is there a cost associated with obtaining external wholesaler certification?

Answer: Yes, there can be costs associated with obtaining external wholesaler certification depending on your training program or certifying body. These costs might include enrollment fees, examination fees, or other related expenses.

5. How long does it take to become externally certified?

Answer: The amount of time needed for completion will vary depending on your training program and how much time you are able to commit towards studying for the exam. Generally speaking, most programs require at least several months of preparation before taking the exam and achieving certification status.