Top 10 Inventory Assistant Certifications

Certifications are an important asset for inventory assistants in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise, knowledge, and commitment to the profession. Certifications show employers that the individual has met certain standards of training and education in inventory management, which can give them an advantage when applying for jobs. Certifications also help inventory assistants stay up to date on the latest industry trends and best practices, which can be beneficial when managing inventories. Finally, certifications can give employers peace of mind that their inventory assistant is knowledgeable and competent in their field.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Inventory Assistants, and outline how these can help advance their career.

What are Inventory Assistant Certifications?

Inventory assistant certification is a designation given to individuals who have completed a comprehensive training program designed to help them gain the knowledge and skills necessary for the successful management of inventory. This certification is beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in inventory management, as it provides employers with assurance that the individual has been trained in industry best practices and has the necessary skills to effectively manage inventory.

The certification program typically covers topics such as inventory control systems, supply chain management, forecasting and demand planning, purchasing, warehouse operations, safety procedures, and customer service. Through this training program, individuals learn how to accurately track inventory levels, optimize stock levels according to customer demand, identify potential areas of risk in the supply chain process, develop strategies for reducing costs associated with inventory management activities, and much more. Having this certification can give individuals an edge in their job search and may even lead to better paying positions within the field.

Pro Tip: When considering an inventory assistant certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications of the program. It is important to ensure that the certification is recognized by employers in your chosen field, as this will give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs. Additionally, consider taking classes or attending workshops related to inventory management to gain additional knowledge and experience in this area.

Related: What does an Inventory Assistant do?

Top 10 Inventory Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Inventory Assistants today.

1. Certified Inventory Specialist (CIS)

Certified Inventory Specialist (CIS) is a professional certification program offered by the National Inventory Certification Association (NICA). The CIS program is designed to provide inventory professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage inventory in any business environment.

The CIS program consists of two levels: Level I and Level II. Level I focuses on basic inventory concepts, while Level II covers advanced topics such as forecasting, supply chain management, and data analysis. To become certified at either level requires passing an online exam.

Level I typically takes about six hours to complete, while Level II can take up to twelve hours. Both exams are proctored online via webcam or telephone. The cost for each exam varies depending on the individual's location and chosen payment method. Generally speaking, Level I costs $125 USD and Level II costs $250 USD.

2. Certified Professional Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Professional Inventory Manager (CPIM) is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and experience in inventory management. The CPIM certification is offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to help individuals understand and apply the principles of supply chain and operations management, including inventory planning, control, procurement, and distribution.

The CPIM exam consists of five modules: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each module has its own set of questions that must be answered correctly in order to pass the exam.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to prepare for the CPIM exam. During this time you will need to complete a self-study program or attend a formal training course. There are many resources available online or through APICS that can help you prepare for the exam.

The cost for the CPIM certification varies depending on your chosen study method. Self-study programs typically range from $500-$1000 while attending a formal training course can cost up to $2500. Additionally, there is an examination fee of $495 which must be paid when registering for the exam.

Overall, obtaining the CPIM certification is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in inventory management and can lead to greater career opportunities within the supply chain industry.

3. Certified Inventory Control Professional (CICP)

Certified Inventory Control Professional (CICP) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s mastery of inventory control concepts and techniques. This certification provides recognition for professionals in the field of inventory management and control.

The CICP program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical application project. The written exam tests knowledge in areas such as inventory analysis, forecasting, purchasing, warehousing, and distribution. The practical application project requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.

The CICP program takes approximately six months to complete. Applicants must first submit an application form and fee to ISM before they can take the written exam. After passing the written exam, applicants must then complete the practical application project within six months.

The cost of the CICP program varies depending on where you live and how you choose to participate in it. In most cases, it costs around $1,000 USD for both parts of the program (the written exam and practical application project).

4. Certified Logistics Professional (CLP)

Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of competence in the field of logistics and supply chain management. The CLP certification is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers all aspects of logistics, including transportation, warehousing, inventory management, customer service, and global supply chain management.

To become certified as a CLP, candidates must pass an exam that consists of multiple-choice questions covering the topics listed above. The exam is administered by AST&L or its affiliates. Candidates must also meet certain educational requirements and/or have at least three years of relevant work experience in order to be eligible for the exam.

The cost for taking the CLP exam varies depending on where you take it and how long it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $200-$500 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam and/or obtaining study materials.

The length of time required to prepare for and pass the CLP exam can vary greatly depending on your prior knowledge and experience in logistics and supply chain management. Generally speaking, most people require at least six weeks to adequately prepare for the exam.

5. Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP)

Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) is an internationally recognized professional designation for supply chain managers. The SCMP designation is awarded by the Supply Chain Management Association (SCMA), a Canadian not-for-profit organization that promotes and supports the development of supply chain management professionals.

The SCMP program consists of two parts: a comprehensive exam and an online course. The exam covers topics such as supply chain strategy, logistics, operations, procurement, risk management, and performance measurement. To qualify for the SCMP designation, applicants must have at least five years of experience in supply chain management or related fields.

The SCMP program takes approximately six months to complete. During this time, applicants must complete the online course and pass the comprehensive exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost of the SCMP program varies depending on whether you are a member of the SCMA or not. For non-members, the cost is $1,595 CAD plus applicable taxes; for members, it is $1,395 CAD plus applicable taxes.

6. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in production and inventory management. The CPIM program provides a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers topics such as supply chain management, operations planning, demand forecasting, inventory management, material requirements planning, capacity planning, quality control, supplier relationships, and more.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPIM program depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified, candidates must pass two exams: the Basics of Supply Chain Management exam and the Master Planning of Resources exam. Both exams must be passed within three years of each other in order to earn the CPIM designation.

The cost for taking both exams is $1,095 USD for APICS members or $1,395 USD for non-members. Additionally, there are study materials available for purchase from APICS which can range from $50-$300 depending on what type of material you choose.

7. Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD)

Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program for logistics professionals. It is offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (ASTL). The certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive knowledge of the global supply chain industry.

The CLTD certification requires applicants to pass an online exam consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as transportation management, warehousing and distribution, inventory management, global logistics, and supply chain management. Applicants must also demonstrate at least two years of relevant work experience in the field.

It typically takes around four months to prepare for the CLTD exam. Preparation materials can be found on the ASTL website or through third-party vendors. It is recommended that applicants take practice exams prior to taking the actual exam.

The cost of obtaining the CLTD certification varies depending on whether you are an ASTL member or non-member. For non-members, it costs $595 USD for the application fee and $495 USD for the exam fee. For members, it costs $395 USD for the application fee and $295 USD for the exam fee.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also pay an annual maintenance fee of $50 USD to maintain their certification status.

8. APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management. It is designed to help supply chain professionals understand and implement best practices in the field, including global supply chain management, customer relations, and logistics.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online self-study course, a comprehensive exam, and a one-day workshop. The online self-study course covers topics such as supply chain strategy, design, planning and execution, sourcing and procurement, manufacturing operations management, inventory management and warehousing, transportation management, customer service management, performance measurements and quality assurance. The comprehensive exam tests knowledge in these areas through multiple choice questions.

To obtain the CSCP certification it typically takes 3-6 months to complete the self-study course depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying each week. To prepare for the exam it is recommended that you spend at least 30 hours studying the material provided in the course. After completing the self-study course and passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher you will be eligible for the CSCP designation.

The cost of obtaining your CSCP certification depends on if you are an APICS member or not. For non-members it costs $1125 USD for access to all materials needed to take the exam as well as attendance at a one day workshop which will help you prepare for it. For members it costs $825 USD which includes access to all materials needed to take the exam as well as attendance at a one day workshop which will help you prepare for it.

9. American Production and Inventory Control Society Certification (APICS-CPIM)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the skills and knowledge required to effectively manage production and inventory activities within an organization. It is the most widely recognized certification in the field of supply chain management.

To receive the CPIM designation, candidates must pass five exams: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. The exams are offered via computer-based testing (CBT) at Pearson VUE testing centers around the world.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete all five exams depending on your study habits. To prepare for the exam, APICS offers several study resources including self-study materials, instructor-led courses, webinars, practice tests, and more.

The cost for the CPIM program varies depending on which study materials you choose to purchase or rent. The exam fee for each module is $225 USD ($1125 total for all five modules). Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 USD that must be paid when registering for the program.

Overall, obtaining the CPIM designation can be a time consuming but rewarding process that can open up many new opportunities in your career.

10. International Purchasing & Supply Chain Management Institute Certification (IPSCMI-CPIM)

IPSCMI-CPIM is an internationally recognized certification program offered by the International Purchasing & Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful purchasing and supply chain professionals. The CPIM certification program consists of two parts: a comprehensive exam and a professional practice exam.

The comprehensive exam covers topics such as procurement, inventory management, customer service, logistics, quality assurance, and international sourcing. The professional practice exam focuses on the application of these concepts in real-world business scenarios. To get certified, you must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher.

The comprehensive exam typically takes about 4-6 hours to complete and can be taken at any IPSCMI testing center or online. The professional practice exam can take anywhere from 1-3 hours depending on the complexity of the questions.

To get certified you must register for the program online and pay a fee of $500 USD. This fee includes the cost of both exams as well as access to study materials and resources provided by IPSCMI. Once you have passed both exams you will receive your official CPIM certification which is valid for three years.

Do You Really Need a Inventory Assistant Certificate?

In short, the answer is yes. An Inventory Assistant Certificate is a valuable asset to have in any inventory management role. It provides you with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage inventory and ensure that it is efficiently handled. With this certificate, you will be able to accurately track inventory levels, analyze trends, and develop strategies for optimizing stock levels. Additionally, the certificate can help you stand out from other job applicants when applying for inventory-related positions.

Inventory management requires a great deal of attention to detail and accuracy. With an Inventory Assistant Certificate, you will learn how to effectively use various inventory tracking tools such as spreadsheets and databases. You will also gain insight into how different types of inventories work and how they are managed. Furthermore, you will develop important problem-solving skills that will enable you to identify potential issues before they become major problems.

Finally, having an Inventory Assistant Certificate shows employers that you are dedicated to your career path in inventory management and have taken the initiative to further your education in this field. This type of certification often carries more weight than a degree or other professional qualifications as it demonstrates commitment and dedication to the profession. As such, employers are more likely to hire someone who has taken the time and effort to get certified rather than somebody who simply has a degree in the same field but no additional training or certification in it.

Related: Inventory Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Inventory Assistant Certifications

1. What is an Inventory Assistant Certification?

Answer: An Inventory Assistant Certification is a program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage inventory and control costs in various retail settings. It includes training on inventory management principles, techniques, and strategies as well as best practices for successful inventory control.

2. Who should consider getting an Inventory Assistant Certification?

Answer: The certification is ideal for anyone who works in an inventory-related role in the retail industry, such as store managers, warehouse personnel, buyers, stock clerks, or any other related positions.

3. How long does it take to get an Inventory Assistant Certificate?

Answer: Depending on the program you choose, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the necessary coursework and exams required for certification.

4. What type of job opportunities are available with an Inventory Assistant Certification?

Answer: With your certification you can pursue a variety of jobs within the retail industry including store manager, warehouse supervisor, buyer/stock clerk, or even a consultant specializing in inventory management systems and processes.

5. Does having an Inventory Assistant Certificate increase my chances of getting hired?

Answer: Having a credential that demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in managing inventory can certainly give you an edge when applying for jobs within the retail industry. In addition to providing employers with evidence of your qualifications, having a certificate also shows that you are committed to staying up-to-date on best practices in this field.