Top 10 Import Export Coordinator Certifications

Certifications for an import export coordinator are important for a number of reasons. Firstly, certifications demonstrate that the individual possesses a certain level of knowledge and experience in the field. This can help them stand out from other job seekers when applying for positions in the industry. Additionally, certifications can provide employers with assurance that their employees have the necessary skills to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. Furthermore, certifications can open up new opportunities and connections in the import-export sector as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development. Finally, having certifications may also help individuals gain access to exclusive resources such as industry publications, conferences, and workshops which can further assist them in their career growth.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Import Export Coordinators and explain how they can enhance career prospects in the field.

What are Import Export Coordinator Certifications?

Import export coordinator certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the field of international trade. The certification is offered by various institutions and organizations, such as the National Association of Export Coordinators (NAEC) and the World Trade Institute (WTI).

This training program covers topics such as international trade laws, regulations, and procedures; export compliance; logistics management; customs clearance; global marketing; risk management; and other related topics. The goal of this certification is to prepare individuals for a career in import-export operations. With this certification, individuals have the opportunity to become specialized in the field of international trade and increase their chances of being hired by employers in this sector.

The certification also provides an edge over non-certified professionals when it comes to job opportunities. Employers are more likely to hire someone with a specialized knowledge base in importing and exporting goods than someone without one. Furthermore, those who obtain an import-export coordinator certification can expect higher salaries than those without one due to their increased expertise. Additionally, having an import-export coordinator certification may make it easier for individuals to advance within their current organization or open up new career opportunities.

Pro Tip: Achieving an import export coordinator certification can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for a job in this field. Make sure to research the different certifications available and determine which one best suits your needs. Additionally, consider enrolling in courses or seminars to gain additional knowledge about the industry and stay up-to-date on the latest regulations.

Related: What does an Import Export Coordinator do?

Top 10 Import Export Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Import 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 to ensure that an organization complies with all applicable export laws and regulations. The CECO is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining an effective export compliance program for the organization.

The process of becoming a CECO requires completion of a certification exam administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). The exam covers topics such as export regulations, export control systems, international trade agreements, and other related topics. The exam must be taken in person at one of BIS's regional offices or at an approved testing center.

The cost for taking the certification exam varies depending on the location where it is taken, but typically ranges from $200 to $400 USD. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam, and applicants will receive their results within two weeks after taking it.

Once certified, CECOs are required to maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses every two years in order to stay current on changes in export laws and regulations. These courses can be taken online or in-person at approved training centers around the world.

2. Certified International Trade Professional (CITP)

Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) is a professional certification offered by the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in international trade. CITP holders are recognized as leaders in their field, with the ability to provide strategic advice and guidance on global business operations.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CITP program, depending on individual circumstances. The program consists of self-study, online learning modules, and an exam that must be completed within two years of starting the program. The exam covers topics such as international trade theory, regulations and practices, customs procedures, finance, logistics and marketing.

To get certified as a CITP you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of experience in international trade or related fields; having a valid passport; completing all required courses; passing the exam; and submitting all necessary documents.

The cost of getting certified as a CITP varies depending on several factors such as country of residence and type of membership chosen. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD to become a FITT member and receive access to the CITP program materials. Additional fees may apply for taking the exam or other services associated with the certification process.

3. 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). The CGBP certification is designed to recognize professionals in the field of international trade who possess the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to succeed in today’s global business environment.

The CGBP certification is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers topics such as international marketing, export-import regulations, finance and logistics. It is intended for professionals who are actively involved in international trade or those who are looking to enter the field.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CGBP certification program. During this time, applicants must complete an online study course, pass a comprehensive exam and submit a professional portfolio demonstrating their experience and capabilities in global business.

To get started with the CGBP certification process, applicants must first register for the program through NASBITE’s website. The cost of registration varies depending on whether you are an individual or group applicant. For individuals, it costs $495 USD; for groups of three or more people applying together, it costs $395 USD per person.

4. Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)

A Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) is a professional designation given to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of customs regulations. This certification is awarded by the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB).

The CCS designation requires applicants to pass an examination that tests their understanding of customs regulations, procedures, and practices. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Candidates must also demonstrate three years of relevant work experience in order to qualify for the CCS designation.

In order to apply for the CCS exam, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as proof of education and work experience, a passport-sized photo, and payment for the exam fee. The fee for the CCS exam is $450 CAD plus applicable taxes.

Once candidates have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their CCS designation from the CSCB. The certification is valid for five years, after which time it must be renewed by submitting an application form along with payment for the renewal fee ($200 CAD plus applicable taxes).

5. Certified Export Specialist (CES)

Certified Export Specialist (CES) is a certification program offered by the U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration (ITA). The program is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage international trade operations. It is intended for those who are currently working in or considering entering the field of international trade.

The program consists of four courses: Introduction to International Trade, Export Procedures and Documentation, Export Compliance and Marketing Strategies for Exporters. Each course is offered online through ITA's website and takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of all four courses, participants will receive their CES certification from ITA.

The cost for the program varies depending on whether you choose to take all four courses at once or one at a time. If taken all at once, the cost is $799; if taken one at a time, the cost is $199 per course.

In order to receive your CES certification, you must pass an exam after completing all four courses with a score of 70% or higher. Additionally, you must be able to demonstrate that you have two years' experience in international trade activities within the past five years prior to applying for your CES certification.

6. International Trade Certification (ITC)

International Trade Certification (ITC) is a certification program designed to help businesses expand their international trade activities. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a company’s commitment to global trade and its ability to comply with the rules and regulations of international markets. The ITC is administered by the International Trade Centre (ITC), an organization under the joint auspices of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

The process for obtaining ITC certification typically takes between six to twelve months, depending on the complexity of the application. To get certified, companies must submit an application form, provide evidence of their compliance with international standards, and pass a series of assessments conducted by ITC experts. These assessments include financial analysis, market research, legal review, product testing, and other areas that demonstrate a company’s capability to conduct international business.

The cost for obtaining ITC certification varies depending on the size and complexity of the application. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars or more. Furthermore, companies must pay annual fees in order to maintain their certification status.

Overall, obtaining an ITC certification is beneficial for businesses looking to expand their operations into new markets as it provides assurance that they are well-prepared for international trade activities.

7. Certified Logistics Professional (CLP)

Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Society of Logistics (SOLE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in logistics and supply chain management. The certification is based on the SOLE Body of Knowledge, which includes topics such as logistics operations, supply chain management, transportation, inventory control and customer service.

The CLP certification requires that applicants pass an exam administered by SOLE. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers all areas of the SOLE Body of Knowledge. To be eligible for the CLP certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in logistics or supply chain management.

It takes approximately six months to complete the CLP certification process. During this time, applicants must complete an application form and submit it to SOLE for review. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam and pay the associated fee ($495 as of 2021). After passing the exam, applicants will be officially certified as a Certified Logistics Professional (CLP).

The cost to obtain the CLP certification is $495 as of 2021. This fee covers the cost of registering for and taking the exam as well as any additional materials needed to prepare for it.

8. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management best practices and principles. The CSCP program provides participants with an in-depth knowledge of global supply chain operations, enabling them to effectively manage the end-to-end supply chain from suppliers to customers.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the CSCP program. To get certified, you must first pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain design and strategy, inventory and warehouse management, transportation and logistics, customer service, and international trade. After passing the exam, you must submit a professional portfolio demonstrating your experience in the field.

The cost of obtaining the CSCP certification varies depending on your country of residence. In general, it costs around $1,000 USD for members of ASCM and $1,500 USD for non-members.

9. International Freight Forwarding and Logistics Certification Program

International Freight Forwarding and Logistics Certification Program is a program designed to provide professionals in the freight forwarding and logistics industry with the knowledge, skills, and credentials necessary to excel in their field. This certification program provides students with an understanding of international trade regulations, customs procedures, shipping documentation, and other related topics.

The program typically takes about 12 months to complete. It consists of online courses that cover topics such as international trade regulations, customs procedures, shipping documentation, and other related topics. The courses are self-paced and can be completed at your own pace.

To get certified through this program, you must first complete all the required coursework. Once you have completed all the coursework, you will need to pass a final exam in order to receive your certification.

The cost for this certification program varies depending on which institution you choose to take it from. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on the institution offering the program and any additional fees they may charge.

10. Institute of Export & International Trade Certificate in International Trade

The Institute of Export & International Trade Certificate in International Trade is a professional qualification designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in international trade. It is an internationally recognised certification that sets the standard for those working in the field of international trade.

The course typically takes around 12 months to complete, although this may vary depending on the individual's circumstances. The course consists of three modules: Introduction to International Trade, Business Administration and Finance, and International Business Law. Each module includes a series of lectures, workshops, practical activities and assignments.

To get the certificate, individuals must successfully complete all three modules within the prescribed time frame and pass an end-of-course assessment. The assessment is based on both theoretical knowledge and practical application of concepts learned during the course.

The cost of the Institute of Export & International Trade Certificate in International Trade varies depending on which institution offers it, but typically ranges from £2,000 - £4,000 per year.

Do You Really Need a Import Export Coordinator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual situation. If you are looking to become an import/export coordinator, then it is likely that you will need a certificate in order to gain the necessary skills and knowledge required for the job. A certificate may also be beneficial if you are looking to enter a related field such as international trade, business administration, or logistics.

Having a certification can provide employers with the assurance that you have been trained in the specific areas of import/export coordination and that you understand the regulations, procedures, and processes involved. This can give them confidence that you will be able to handle any import/export duties assigned to you efficiently and effectively.

In addition, having a certificate can help demonstrate your commitment to learning more about international trade and staying up-to-date on trends and developments in this area. It can also show prospective employers that you have taken initiative by investing time in furthering your education and developing new skills which could make you more attractive as a potential employee.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an import export coordinator certificate is up to your personal circumstances. If it is something which would benefit your career prospects or help set yourself apart from other applicants, then it may be worth considering obtaining one.

Related: Import Export Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Import Export Coordinator Certifications

Q1: What qualifications do I need to become an Import Export Coordinator?

A1: To become an Import Export Coordinator, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in international business, finance, economics, or a related field. Additionally, some employers may require relevant work experience in the import/export industry.

Q2: What type of certification is available for Import Export Coordinators?

A2: There are several certifications available for Import Export Coordinators, including the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation from the Institute of International Trade and the Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) certification from NASBITE International.

Q3: How long does it take to obtain an Import Export Coordinator Certification?

A3: The length of time required to obtain an Import Export Coordinator Certification will depend on the specific certification program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within 1-2 years.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites for obtaining an Import Export Coordinator Certification?

A4: Yes, most certification programs have certain prerequisites that must be met before enrolling in the program. These may include work experience in the import/export industry and/or completion of certain courses or exams.

Q5: What type of job opportunities are available with an Import Export Coordinator Certification?

A5: With an Import Export Coordinator Certification, you can pursue a variety of job opportunities such as Logistics Manager, Global Supply Chain Manager, International Trade Specialist, and more.