Top 10 Freight Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are an important way for freight coordinators to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field. They provide employers with evidence that a candidate is knowledgeable about the industry, safety regulations, and best practices. Certifications also offer opportunities for career advancement as they can lead to higher paying positions or additional responsibilities. Lastly, certifications can help build credibility within the industry, which may be necessary when applying for promotions or new jobs.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Freight Coordinators and explains how they can help to enhance a freight coordinator's career.

What are Freight Coordinator Certifications?

Freight coordinator certification is a program designed to help individuals become qualified to manage the logistics of freight transportation. This certification provides in-depth knowledge and training on the tasks associated with freight coordination, including understanding the regulations and requirements for international shipping, managing cargo tracking, creating custom shipping routes, and ensuring safe and efficient delivery of goods. With this certification, freight coordinators can gain a better understanding of how to manage the complexities of global trade and develop the skills necessary to ensure their shipments arrive safely and on time. Freight coordinator certification can benefit those who are looking to improve their career prospects in the field of logistics or those who are looking to start their own business in freight coordination. The knowledge gained from this certification can help individuals increase their job security by being more knowledgeable about the industry regulations, as well as helping them become more competitive in the job market by providing them with a recognized qualification.

Pro Tip: Freight Coordinator Certification is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the freight industry. Make sure you research the specific requirements for certification in your area, as they may vary from one state or country to another. Additionally, consider taking courses or attending seminars to stay up-to-date on current regulations and trends in the freight industry.

Related: What does a Freight Coordinator do?

Top 10 Freight Coordinator Certifications

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

1. Certified Freight Coordinator (CFC)

Certified Freight Coordinator (CFC) is a professional designation offered by the International Association of Certified Freight Coordinators (IACFC). The CFC certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in freight coordination.

The CFC certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as logistics, supply chain management, customs regulations, and international trade. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in freight coordination or related fields.

The CFC exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. It costs $350 USD to take the exam. After successfully passing the exam, applicants receive their CFC certification and can use the designation on their resume or business cards.

To maintain their certification, CFCs must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every three years.

2. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the essential knowledge and skills in supply chain management. The CSCP certification is widely recognized as one of the most comprehensive and sought-after certifications in the field of supply chain management.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online learning system, an exam, and a professional development program. The online learning system includes self-paced modules that cover topics such as supply chain strategy, design, planning, execution, monitoring, and optimization. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering these topics. Candidates must pass the exam with a score of at least 70% to earn their CSCP certification.

It typically takes around six months to complete the CSCP program. However, this timeline may vary depending on individual study habits and goals.

To get certified as a CSCP professional, candidates must first register for the program through APICS’ website or through an APICS partner organization. After registering for the program, candidates can purchase access to the online learning system which contains all of the necessary materials for studying for the exam. After successfully passing the exam with a score of at least 70%, candidates will receive their official CSCP certificate from APICS.

The cost to become certified as a CSCP professional varies depending on where you register for the program and whether or not you are an APICS member. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,000-$2,000 USD to become certified as a CSCP professional.

3. Certified Logistics Professional (CLP)

The Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) is a professional certification offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLP is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and skills in the field of logistics. It is the highest level of certification available for professionals in the transportation and logistics industry.

To obtain the CLP, candidates must first meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least five years of experience in a related field, such as supply chain management, transportation management, or logistics operations. Candidates must also complete an approved course of study from an AST&L-accredited institution.

Once these requirements are met, candidates may take the CLP exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation planning and execution, customer service, safety and security regulations, and financial management. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and requires a passing score of 70% or higher to earn the CLP designation.

The cost to take the CLP exam varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of AST&L. For members, the fee is $295; for nonmembers it is $395. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with taking preparatory courses or purchasing study materials.

4. Certified Transportation Professional (CTP)

Certified Transportation Professional (CTP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of professional competence in the field of transportation. The CTP is administered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L).

The CTP program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in areas such as transportation management, logistics, operations, safety, and customer service. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers these topics.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least three years of relevant work experience in the field of transportation or logistics. They must also have completed at least 30 hours of related continuing education courses within the last five years.

It typically takes four to six months to complete the CTP certification process. During this time, applicants must submit an application form, provide proof of their work experience and continuing education credits, and pass the exam.

The cost for taking the CTP exam varies depending on whether you are an AST&L member or not. For non-members, it costs $395 USD; for members it costs $295 USD.

5. International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations Training

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations Training is an online training program designed to help individuals learn the regulations and requirements for safely transporting dangerous goods by air. The program covers topics such as identifying, classifying, packaging, labeling and documentation of dangerous goods. It also includes information on how to properly prepare a shipment for air transport and how to respond in case of an emergency involving dangerous goods.

The IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Training program typically takes about four hours to complete and can be taken at your own pace. It is available in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian and Portuguese. The cost of the training varies depending on the language chosen but usually ranges from $150-$200 USD.

To get the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Training you will need to register with an approved training provider. Once registered you will receive access to the online course materials which can be completed at your own pace over four hours or more depending on your learning speed. Upon completion of the course you will receive a certificate of completion that is valid for two years from the date of issue.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and experience of project managers. The PMP certification demonstrates that an individual has the expertise to successfully manage projects in any industry.

The PMP certification process consists of four steps:

1. Prerequisites: You must meet certain prerequisites before you can apply for the PMP exam. These include having a minimum of three years’ professional project management experience and 4,500 hours leading and directing projects, as well as 35 hours of project management education or training.

2. Application: Once you have met all the prerequisites, you can submit your application online through the PMI website. You will be required to provide documentation such as transcripts, resumes, and letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues to support your application.

3. Exam: After your application is approved, you will be able to schedule your exam date with Prometric Testing Centers or Pearson VUE Testing Centers. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours.

4. Maintenance: Once you pass the exam, you must maintain your certification by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to remain certified as a PMP. PDUs are earned through activities such as attending seminars or workshops related to project management, reading books about project management topics, writing articles about project management topics, etc.

The cost for taking the PMP exam varies depending on where you live and if you are a member of PMI or not; however it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD plus applicable taxes.

7. International Trade and Customs Compliance Certification

International Trade and Customs Compliance Certification is a certification program designed to help companies ensure that their international trade activities are in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards. This certification is issued by the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) and is recognized by many countries around the world.

The certification process involves taking an online exam that covers topics such as customs regulations, export controls, import procedures, product classification, documentation requirements, and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. After successfully passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within four to six weeks.

To obtain the International Trade and Customs Compliance Certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in international trade or customs compliance. Applicants must also submit a completed application form along with supporting documents such as references from employers or clients and proof of relevant education or training.

The cost of obtaining the International Trade and Customs Compliance Certification varies depending on the country where you are applying for it. In general, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD for most countries.

8. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, analyze, and resolve quality-related issues.

The certification process typically takes between three and six months, depending on the individual's level of experience and commitment to learning. The certification requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as problem-solving techniques, project management, data analysis, and process improvement.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first complete a training program or course in the Six Sigma methodology. This can be done through an accredited institution or online program. Once you have completed your training, you will need to pass an exam administered by one of the major Six Sigma organizations such as ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification).

The cost of getting certified can vary depending on the type of program you choose and where you take it. Generally speaking, most programs range from $1,000-$3,000 USD.

9. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) is a certification program offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and experience of individuals who manage hazardous materials in their work environment. The CHMM certification demonstrates that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of hazardous materials management, including legal requirements, safety procedures, risk assessment, emergency response planning, and environmental regulations.

The CHMM certification requires applicants to pass an examination administered by IHMM. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics related to hazardous materials management. Applicants must also have at least three years of professional experience in hazardous materials management or a related field.

The cost for taking the CHMM exam varies depending on factors such as location and whether or not you are an IHMM member. Generally, it costs around $400-$500 for non-members and $300-$400 for members.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive your results after taking the exam. If you pass the exam, you will be awarded with your Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) certificate.

10. Warehouse Management System Certification

Warehouse Management System (WMS) Certification is an industry-recognized certification program that helps validate a WMS user’s knowledge and proficiency in the use of warehouse management systems. The certification program is designed to ensure that users of WMS technology have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage their warehouses.

The certification process typically takes about two weeks to complete. During this time, applicants must complete a series of online tests and quizzes to demonstrate their understanding of the WMS software and its features. Upon successful completion of these tests, applicants are awarded a certificate that verifies their proficiency in using the system.

In order to get certified, applicants must first register for the certification program on the official website. After registering, they will be assigned a unique ID number which they must use when taking the tests. Once all tests have been completed successfully, applicants will receive their certificate via email or mail within two weeks.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $50-$200 USD.

Do You Really Need a Freight Coordinator Certificate?

The short answer is no. A freight coordinator certificate is not required to become a freight coordinator, but it can certainly help you stand out in the job market.

Freight coordinators are responsible for the safe and efficient transportation of goods from one place to another. They are in charge of coordinating and monitoring shipments, negotiating rates with carriers, and ensuring that cargo arrives on time and in good condition. In order to be successful as a freight coordinator, you will need to have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, problem-solving capabilities, and industry knowledge.

A freight coordinator certificate can provide you with the credentials that employers look for when hiring for this position. It will demonstrate your knowledge of the industry and show potential employers that you have taken initiative to gain additional training in this field. The coursework typically covers topics such as logistics management, supply chain operations, customer service, regulatory compliance, risk management, shipping documents, budgeting and cost control. Having a certificate may also make you more competitive when applying for jobs or when negotiating salary rates.

Overall, earning a freight coordinator certificate can be extremely beneficial if you’re looking to move into this career field or advance within it. It can give you an edge over other candidates who lack such qualifications and prove that you’re serious about working as a freight coordinator.

Related: Freight Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Freight Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a freight coordinator certification?

A freight coordinator certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in managing the logistics of transporting goods from one place to another. It typically includes topics such as supply chain management, international trade, and customs regulations.

2. How do I become certified as a freight coordinator?

In order to become certified as a freight coordinator, you must complete a training program approved by the National Association of Freight & Logistics (NAFL). You must also pass an exam to demonstrate your knowledge of the topic.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

By becoming certified, you can increase your chances of getting hired or promoted, as employers often prefer candidates who have been trained and certified in their field. Additionally, having this certification may open doors for higher-level positions and provide access to more specialized jobs in the industry.

4. How long does it take to become certified?

The length of time it takes to become certified varies depending on the type of program you choose and how much time you dedicate to studying for the exam. Generally speaking, most programs take anywhere from 3-6 months to complete.

5. Is there continuing education required after certification?

Yes, there is usually some form of continuing education required after certification in order to keep your credentials current and up-to-date with industry standards and practices. This could include attending seminars or taking online courses related to freight coordination and logistics management topics.