Top 11 Import Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for an import manager in the job market as they demonstrate a level of expertise, knowledge and experience that sets them apart from other job seekers. Certifications can provide proof of competency in specific areas, such as international trade regulations, customs compliance, risk management and logistics, which employers often look for when hiring an import manager. They also help to show potential employers that the individual has taken the initiative to obtain additional training and stay current on industry trends. Furthermore, certifications provide assurance to employers that the candidate is qualified and knowledgeable about the industry, which is essential for success in this role.

This article reviews the top certifications available for Import Managers and explains how they can benefit an import manager's career.

What are Import Manager Certifications?

Import Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to teach and assess an individual's knowledge and skills on the topics of international trade and import management. The certification program covers a range of topics, including international trade regulations, customs compliance, logistics and supply chain management, financial management in cross-border transactions, export/import documentation requirements and more.

Having an Import Manager Certification provides individuals with the recognition of having achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of import management. It also serves as proof that the individual has received specialized training in this area. This certificate can be very beneficial for individuals who are looking to pursue a career in international trade. Having an Import Manager Certificate will give employers assurance that the applicant has the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in this field. Additionally, it may provide applicants with a competitive edge over other job seekers when applying for positions requiring expertise in import/export operations.

Pro Tip: When pursuing an import manager certification, be sure to familiarize yourself with the latest regulations and trends in international trade. Having a thorough understanding of the rules and regulations governing imports will help you become a successful import manager. Additionally, it is important to have excellent problem-solving skills as well as strong communication and organizational abilities.

Related: What does an Import Manager do?

Top 11 Import Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Import Managers today.

1. Certified International Trade Professional (CITP)

Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) is a professional certification program offered by the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skills and experience in international trade. The CITP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of international trade topics such as export/import regulations, logistics, finance and marketing.

The CITP certification process takes approximately 6-12 months to complete. Applicants must first pass an online entrance exam that tests their knowledge of the fundamentals of international trade. After passing the exam, applicants must complete an approved FITT course or equivalent training program in order to receive their CITP designation.

To obtain the CITP designation, applicants must submit an application along with supporting documents such as proof of education and work experience in international trade. The cost to apply for the CITP designation is $500 USD plus applicable taxes.

2. Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)

A Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of customs regulations and procedures. The CCS designation is awarded by the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB) to individuals who have successfully completed their certification program.

The CCS program consists of three courses: Introduction to Customs Procedures, International Trade Law, and Advanced Customs Procedures. Each course must be completed within one year from the date of registration. The cost for each course is $400 plus applicable taxes.

To become a CCS, an individual must first become a member of the CSCB by completing an online application form and paying an annual fee. Once accepted as a member, they can then register for the CCS program and begin taking courses. Upon successful completion of all three courses, candidates must pass an examination administered by the CSCB in order to receive their CCS designation.

The cost for the entire CCS program is approximately $1,200 plus applicable taxes. This includes all three courses, examination fees, and membership fees. It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the program depending on how quickly you are able to complete the coursework.

3. Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP)

Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) is a certification program offered by the NASBITE International organization. It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in international business and trade operations. The CGBP certification is intended to demonstrate that an individual has acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in today's global marketplace.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CGBP certification process, depending on your current level of knowledge and experience. To become certified, you must complete the CGBP Exam Preparation Course and pass the CGBP Exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam preparation course consists of online modules covering topics such as international marketing, export compliance regulations, logistics management, finance, risk management, and more.

The cost of obtaining the CGBP certification varies depending on where you take the exam preparation course. Generally, it costs around $1,000 for the exam preparation course plus an additional fee for taking the exam itself.

4. Certified Import/Export Specialist (CIES)

A Certified Import/Export Specialist (CIES) is an individual who has been certified by the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). This certification demonstrates a high level of knowledge and expertise in the international trade industry.

In order to become a CIES, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as import/export regulations, customs procedures, international trade finance, logistics, and other related topics. The exam is offered twice a year and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CIES certification, individuals must have at least two years of experience working in the field of international trade or have completed an approved educational program. They must also pay an application fee and submit documentation verifying their experience or education.

The cost for taking the CIES exam varies depending on whether you are a member of NCBFAA and if you are taking the online or paper version of the exam. For non-members, the cost ranges from $450-$550 for either version.

5. 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 certification is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the essential technology, concepts and strategies of supply chain management. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the global supply chain, from strategic design to tactical implementation.

The CSCP program consists of three main components: an online learning system, an online exam, and a hands-on workshop. The online learning system includes over 30 hours of self-paced instruction on topics such as supply chain strategy and design, inventory management, transportation and logistics, customer service and more. The online exam tests your knowledge of these topics. After passing the exam, you must attend a two-day workshop to complete the program.

It typically takes around six months to complete the CSCP program. To get certified, you must pass both the online exam and attend the two-day workshop.

The cost for the CSCP certification varies depending on whether you are an ASCM member or non-member. For members, it costs $995 USD for the online learning system and $695 USD for the two-day workshop. For non-members, it costs $1,295 USD for the online learning system and $895 USD for the two-day workshop.

6. Certified Trade Compliance Manager (CTCM)

Certified Trade Compliance Manager (CTCM) is a certification program designed to help professionals in the field of international trade compliance demonstrate their knowledge and expertise. It is offered by the International Trade Compliance Association (ITCA).

The CTCM certification involves completing a comprehensive training program that covers topics related to international trade compliance, including export controls, customs regulations, sanctions, anti-corruption laws, and other related topics. The program consists of three levels: Level 1 - Foundation; Level 2 - Advanced; and Level 3 - Expert. The coursework includes both online and in-person instruction.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the CTCM certification program, depending on how quickly a student progresses through the coursework. To get certified, students must pass a final exam at each level with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for the CTCM certification program varies depending on whether you are taking it online or in person. Online courses typically range from $2,000-$3,000 USD while in-person courses can range from $4,000-$7,000 USD.

7. Logistics and Supply Chain Management Certification (LSCMC)

Logistics and Supply Chain Management Certification (LSCMC) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage logistics and supply chain operations. The certification is offered through the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS).

The LSCMC program consists of three levels: Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD); Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM); and Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP). Each level requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as inventory control, production planning, transportation management, customer service, global logistics, supply chain management strategies, and more.

It typically takes around six months to complete all three levels of the LSCMC program. To get certified, you must first register for each level’s exam with APICS. You can do this online or by mail. Once registered, you will receive a study guide which outlines the topics covered on the exam as well as recommended study materials. You can then use these materials to prepare for the exams.

The cost of obtaining LSCMC certification depends on which level you are taking. The CLTD exam costs $695; the CPIM exam costs $595; and the CSCP exam costs $795. All fees are non-refundable once submitted.

8. International Trade Compliance Manager Certification (ITCMC)

The International Trade Compliance Manager Certification (ITCMC) is a professional certification program for individuals who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in international trade compliance. It is designed to provide an understanding of the legal, regulatory, and operational aspects of global trade.

The ITCMC program consists of three courses: International Business Law, Global Trade Regulations, and International Trade Operations. The courses are offered online or in-person and can be completed at the student's own pace. The total time to complete the program is approximately two months.

To get certified, students must pass all three courses with a minimum score of 70%. Once all three courses are successfully completed, students will receive their ITCMC certificate from the International Trade Compliance Institute (ITCI).

The cost of the ITCMC program varies depending on whether you take the courses online or in-person. Online courses typically range from $1,000-$2,000 while in-person classes usually cost around $3,000-$4,000.

9. International Trade Finance Certification (ITFC)

International Trade Finance Certification (ITFC) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in international trade finance. The ITFC program is administered by the International Trade Finance Association (ITFA), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting best practices in international trade finance.

The ITFC program consists of four levels of certification: Associate, Professional, Expert, and Master. Each level requires successful completion of an exam and practical experience in the field of international trade finance.

The Associate level requires successful completion of an online exam which covers topics such as global payments, foreign exchange, risk management, and other aspects of international trade finance. This exam can be taken at any time and costs $150 USD.

The Professional level requires successful completion of an online exam which covers topics such as global payments, foreign exchange, risk management, legal issues related to international trade finance, and other advanced topics related to international trade finance. This exam can be taken at any time and costs $250 USD.

The Expert level requires successful completion of an online exam which covers topics such as global payments, foreign exchange, risk management, legal issues related to international trade finance, and other advanced topics related to international trade finance. In addition to the online exam, applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their practical experience in the field of international trade finance. This portfolio must include evidence such as letters from employers or clients attesting to their work in this area. The Expert level also requires two years of professional experience in the field prior to taking the exam. This exam can be taken at any time and costs $500 USD.

Finally, the Master level requires successful completion of an online exam which covers topics such as global payments, foreign exchange, risk management, legal issues related to international trade finance, and other advanced topics related to international trade finance. In addition to the online exam applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their practical experience in the field of international trade finance including evidence such as letters from employers or clients attesting to their work in this area. The Master level also requires five years of professional experience prior to taking the exam and passing an oral examination given by a panel approved by ITFA before being granted certification status. This oral examination consists of questions on various aspects relating to international trade finance including but not limited to financial analysis techniques used for credit decisions; documentation requirements; banking regulations; compliance issues; dispute resolution methods; negotiation techniques; etc.. The Master level certification costs $1125 USD plus travel expenses for attending the oral examination if applicable.

Overall it takes approximately 3-4 months for applicants who are applying for all levels except for Master where it may take up 6 months or more depending on availability of panel members conducting oral examinations

10. Global Sourcing and Procurement Certification (GSPC)

Global Sourcing and Procurement Certification (GSPC) is a certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to provide professionals in the field of global sourcing and procurement with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise. The GSPC certification is based on the ISM’s Global Sourcing and Procurement Body of Knowledge, which covers topics such as supply chain management, global sourcing strategies, supplier selection and evaluation, contract negotiation, logistics management, risk management, and more.

The GSPC certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and an online assessment. The written exam can be taken at any approved testing center around the world. It takes approximately 3 hours to complete the exam and it costs $450 USD. The online assessment is done through ISM’s eLearning platform. It consists of multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 2 hours. The cost for this part of the certification process is $150 USD.

Once both parts are successfully completed, you will receive your GSPC certification from ISM. This certification is valid for three years after which you must retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

11. Professional in Export Management and Administration Certification (PEMAC).

Professional in Export Management and Administration Certification (PEMAC) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the export management and administration field. The program provides a comprehensive overview of export regulations, documentation, processes, and procedures. It also covers topics such as international trade finance, customs compliance, logistics, marketing, and risk management.

The PEMAC certification requires a minimum of 80 hours of study time over four months. The program consists of eight modules that cover all aspects of export management and administration. Each module contains lectures, case studies, quizzes, and assignments that must be completed in order to obtain the certification. Additionally, students must complete an online exam at the end of each module in order to receive their certificate.

In order to get the PEMAC certification, individuals must first register for the program through the International Trade Council (ITC). After registering for the course, individuals will be provided with access to all materials needed for completion including lectures and other resources. Once all eight modules are completed successfully with passing grades on each exam, individuals will receive their official PEMAC certificate from ITC.

The cost for obtaining a PEMAC certification varies depending on which package is chosen by the individual taking the course. Generally speaking however, it can range anywhere from $750 - $1125 USD depending on whether or not additional services such as one-on-one tutoring are included in the package chosen.

Do You Really Need a Import Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need an Import Manager Certificate is a personal decision. It depends on your career goals and the type of job you are looking for.

If you are looking to become an import manager, then the certificate may be beneficial. An Import Manager Certificate can provide recognition of your ability to successfully manage imports and exports, as well as demonstrate your knowledge of international trade regulations and practices. This type of certification can give employers confidence in your ability to handle their import/export needs. Additionally, having a certification could make you more attractive to potential employers who are looking for someone with experience in this area.

On the other hand, there are some drawbacks to obtaining an Import Manager Certificate. For example, it may require additional time and money that could be better spent on other aspects of your career development. Additionally, even with a certificate, it still requires hard work and dedication to succeed in this field; no amount of training or education will guarantee success without putting in the effort.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an Import Manager Certificate is up to you and depends on what you hope to achieve in your career. If you feel that having this certification would benefit you and help advance your career goals, then it may be worth pursuing. However, if it is not necessary for achieving your desired outcome, then investing time and money into obtaining one may not be necessary at all.

Related: Import Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Import Manager Certifications

Q1. What is an Import Manager Certification?

A1. An Import Manager Certification is a qualification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the area of international trade, including import regulations, customs compliance, logistics, and supply chain management.

Q2. What are the benefits of becoming certified as an Import Manager?

A2. Becoming certified as an Import Manager can provide you with the opportunity to increase your professional knowledge and expertise in the field of international trade, while also improving your job prospects and helping you stand out from other job candidates. Additionally, employers may be more likely to hire someone who is certified in this field due to their higher level of expertise and understanding of international trade regulations.

Q3. How do I become certified as an Import Manager?

A3. To become certified as an Import Manager, you must complete a certification program or course that covers topics such as import regulations, customs compliance, logistics, and supply chain management. After completing the program or course successfully, you will receive your certification.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as an Import Manager?

A4. The time it takes to become certified depends on the type of program or course you choose and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for it each week/month/year. Generally speaking, most programs or courses can be completed within 1-2 years if studied full-time or 2-3 years if studied part-time (depending on the institution).

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as an Import Manager?

A5: Yes - many institutions require applicants to have prior experience in international trade or related fields before they will accept them into their certification programs or courses. It is important to check with specific institutions prior to enrolling in order to ensure that you meet all prerequisites for certification as an Import Manager.