Top 11 Inventory Control Manager Certifications

Certifications are important to an inventory control manager in the job market because they can provide evidence of their knowledge, competency and ability to do the job. They demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a dedication to staying current with industry standards. Certifications also give employers assurance that the individual has the necessary skills and qualifications to handle the job. By having certifications, inventory control managers can stand out from other applicants and make themselves more attractive for potential employers.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Inventory Control Managers and explains how they can help to advance an inventory control manager's career.

What are Inventory Control Manager Certifications?

Inventory Control Manager Certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in managing inventory within an organization. This certification program teaches inventory control managers the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage stock levels and ensure that products are available when customers need them. It also helps to keep costs down by preventing overstocking and understocking, as well as reducing waste from expired or damaged goods. The certification is designed to give employers assurance that their inventory control managers are knowledgeable and up-to-date on current industry best practices.

The primary benefit of Inventory Control Manager Certification is that it provides employers with a way to identify skilled professionals who can help them manage their inventory effectively. Certified professionals possess the technical knowledge and experience necessary to understand the complexities of managing complex inventory systems, including how to track stock levels, forecast demand, optimize storage space, reduce losses due to expiration or damage, and minimize errors in ordering or stocking products. Additionally, certified professionals demonstrate commitment to their profession by keeping up-to-date with industry trends and best practices through continuing education opportunities such as workshops, conferences, seminars, webinars, etc. Having this certification shows employers that an individual has both the technical skills and dedication needed for success in today’s competitive business environment.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming an inventory control manager, it is important to research and obtain certifications that are specific to the field. Many organizations require certification for inventory control managers, so having the right credentials can give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Related: What does an Inventory Control Manager do?

Top 11 Inventory Control Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Inventory Manager (CIM)

Certified Inventory Manager (CIM) is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of inventory management professionals. It is offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). The CIM certification demonstrates that an individual has the necessary skills to effectively manage inventory in any organization.

The CIM certification process typically takes between 6-12 months, depending on the individual's experience level and commitment to studying for the exam. To get certified, individuals must first complete a minimum of two years of inventory management experience or one year of experience plus related coursework. Then they must pass an online exam administered by APICS which covers topics such as inventory control, forecasting, supply chain management, and operations management.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of membership you have with APICS. For non-members, it costs $695 for the exam fee plus $125 for study materials. For members, it costs $595 for the exam fee plus $125 for study materials.

2. Certified Professional Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Professional Inventory Manager (CPIM) is a certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of inventory management and operations principles. The CPIM program consists of five courses: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources.

The CPIM exam is administered in two parts: Part 1 covers the Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, and Execution and Control of Operations; Part 2 covers Strategic Management of Resources. To become certified, candidates must pass both parts with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost to take the CPIM exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in. Generally speaking, it will cost around $600 USD for both parts combined.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the CPIM exam depending on how much time you dedicate to studying each week. APICS offers various study materials such as textbooks, practice exams, online courses and webinars that can help you prepare for the exam.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional's mastery of the end-to-end supply chain management process. It is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage global supply chains, from supplier relationships to customer satisfaction.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online learning system, a comprehensive exam, and a professional development program. The online learning system provides comprehensive instruction on all aspects of supply chain management, including sourcing, logistics, operations, planning, inventory control, customer service and more. The exam is a three-hour test that covers all topics covered in the learning system. Finally, the professional development program allows candidates to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the CSCP program depending on how much time you are able to dedicate each week. To get certified as a CSCP you must successfully complete both the online learning system and pass the exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost for the CSCP certification varies depending on your country of residence and whether or not you are an APICS member. In general, it costs around $1,000 USD for non-members and $700 USD for members.

4. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage production and inventory activities within an organization. The CPIM program consists of five courses: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each course can be taken separately or as part of the full CPIM certification program.

The CPIM certification typically takes about 6-12 months to complete depending on individual study habits. To get started, individuals must register for the CPIM program through APICS. This includes paying a registration fee which varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. After registering, individuals will have access to the online learning platform where they can view course materials, take practice exams, and participate in online discussions with other CPIM candidates.

In order to receive their CPIM certification after completing all five courses, individuals must pass two exams: the Basics Exam and either the Master Planning or Detailed Scheduling exam. Both exams consist of multiple choice questions covering topics from each course module. The cost for each exam is $295 for non-members or $245 for members. Once both exams are passed successfully, individuals will receive their official CPIM certificate from APICS.

5. APICS Supply Chain Manager Certification (SCM)

APICS Supply Chain Manager Certification (SCM) is a professional certification program designed to help supply chain professionals demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field. It is offered by APICS, a global leader in supply chain education and certification. The SCM certification is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of supply chain management, from planning and procurement to logistics and customer service.

The SCM certification consists of four courses: Principles of Supply Chain Management, Planning & Execution Strategies, Logistics & Distribution Strategies, and Customer Service Strategies. Each course is 10 hours long and can be completed online or in-person at an APICS-approved training center. The total time required to complete the program is 40 hours.

To get the SCM certification, you must pass all four courses with a score of 70% or higher on each exam. You will also need to submit proof of two years' work experience in supply chain management or related fields. Once you have passed the exams and submitted your work experience documentation, you will receive your SCM certification from APICS.

The cost for the full SCM program varies depending on how you choose to take it. Taking all four courses online costs $2,000; taking them in-person at an APICS-approved training center costs $3,000; and taking individual courses online costs $500 per course.

6. American Purchasing Society's Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP)

The Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). The CPP is designed to recognize and promote excellence in purchasing and supply management. It is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of purchasing and supply management.

To get the CPP, individuals must pass an exam administered by APS. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as purchasing principles, procurement processes, supplier selection, contract law, and negotiation strategies. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CPP, applicants must have at least two years of experience in purchasing or supply chain management, or hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in business administration or related field. They must also have completed at least 40 hours of approved continuing education within the past five years.

The cost of taking the CPP exam is $395 for APS members and $495 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with submitting documentation required for eligibility verification.

7. Institute for Supply Management's Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

The Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills required for successful supply management. The CPSM program includes three levels of certification: Foundation, Intermediate, and Mastery.

The Foundation level requires applicants to pass an exam that covers basic principles of supply management such as procurement, inventory management, logistics, and contract law. This level can be completed in approximately six months.

The Intermediate level requires applicants to pass an exam that covers advanced topics such as supply chain strategy, supplier relationship management, and global sourcing. This level can be completed in approximately one year.

The Mastery level requires applicants to complete a comprehensive portfolio project that demonstrates their ability to apply the knowledge they have gained through the program. This level can be completed in approximately two years.

In order to become certified at any of these levels, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least three years of full-time professional experience in supply management or related fields. They must also submit an application fee of $250 for each level they are applying for and pay an additional fee for each exam taken ($150 for Foundation and $200 for Intermediate).

8. International Warehouse Logistics Association's Certified Warehouse Logistics Professional (CWLP)

The International Warehouse Logistics Association's Certified Warehouse Logistics Professional (CWLP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful warehouse logistics professionals. The CWLP provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, processes, and practices of warehouse logistics.

To obtain the CWLP certification, individuals must complete an online application form and pass an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and customer service. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CWLP exam is $395 USD for members of the IWLA and $495 USD for non-members. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their certificate in the mail within four weeks.

9. National Association of Purchasing Management's Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

The Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification offered by the National Association of Purchasing Management (NAPM). The CPM is designed to recognize those individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skills and experience in the field of purchasing and supply management.

To become a CPM, an individual must meet certain educational and work experience requirements, pass an exam administered by NAPM, and agree to abide by the NAPM Code of Ethics. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as purchasing strategy, contract law, supplier management, inventory control, logistics and operations. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam.

In order to take the CPM exam, applicants must have either a bachelor’s degree or five years of full-time purchasing/supply chain management experience. In addition, applicants must submit two letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues attesting to their professional qualifications.

The cost for taking the CPM exam is $695 for NAPM members and $995 for non-members. The fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as one free retake if needed. Once an individual has passed the exam they will receive their official CPM certification from NAPM.

10. American Production and Inventory Control Society's Certified Master Production Scheduler (CMPS)

The Certified Master Production Scheduler (CMPS) is a professional certification offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in production scheduling. The certification is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that includes topics such as capacity planning, materials requirements planning, demand management, inventory control, and more.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers the entire body of knowledge related to production scheduling. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Applicants must also demonstrate two years of relevant work experience in order to be eligible for the certification.

The cost for the CMPS certification varies depending on whether or not you are an APICS member. For non-members, the fee is $495 USD, while members pay $395 USD. Once you have passed the exam and met all other eligibility requirements, you will receive your official CMPS certificate within four to six weeks.

11. American Society for Quality's Quality Engineer Certification (QE).

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Quality Engineer Certification (QE) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in quality engineering. It is designed to provide employers with assurance that certified professionals possess the skills and competencies necessary to effectively analyze, design, implement, and maintain systems for ensuring product and service quality.

To become certified as a Quality Engineer, applicants must meet certain requirements, including passing an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality management principles, statistical methods, process analysis and improvement techniques, problem-solving strategies, customer satisfaction measurement methods, and more. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the QE certification exam, applicants must have at least eight years of work experience in the field of quality engineering or related disciplines. This experience must include five years of direct involvement in quality engineering activities such as design control, process control/improvement initiatives, reliability studies/testing programs, or other similar activities.

The cost of the QE certification program varies depending on the type of membership you have with ASQ. If you are an individual member with ASQ then it will cost $369 USD; if you are a non-member then it will cost $569 USD; and if you are a student member then it will cost $169 USD.

Once all requirements have been met and the exam has been passed successfully, applicants will receive their QE certification from ASQ within 4-6 weeks after successful completion of the exam.

Do You Really Need a Inventory Control Manager Certificate?

Inventory Control Manager Certificate is a certificate that proves you have the necessary knowledge and skills to manage inventory in a responsible and organized way. This certificate can be beneficial for those who are looking to enter or advance in the field of inventory control management.

The main purpose of an Inventory Control Manager Certificate is to demonstrate that you have the requisite knowledge, skills, and experience needed to effectively manage the inventory within an organization. It also shows potential employers that you understand how to maximize efficiency while minimizing costs associated with inventory control.

Having an Inventory Control Manager Certificate can help you stand out when applying for jobs in this field. It demonstrates your commitment to learning and understanding the fundamentals of inventory control management. It also shows employers that you have taken the initiative to learn more about this area and are willing to put in the effort required to become an effective manager.

An Inventory Control Manager Certificate can also provide potential employers with an indication of your ability to work with others in a team environment. It shows that you understand the importance of collaboration and communication between departments, as well as being able to effectively coordinate resources for maximum efficiency. Furthermore, it demonstrates your ability to think critically about problems related to inventory control management and develop solutions based on data analysis and research.

All in all, having an Inventory Control Manager Certificate can be beneficial for those who are looking for roles related to managing inventory within organizations. The certificate provides evidence of your dedication towards learning about this field and will likely make you stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions within this sector.

Related: Inventory Control Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Inventory Control Manager Certifications

Q1. What is an Inventory Control Manager Certification?

A1. An Inventory Control Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in inventory control management. The certification validates the individual’s ability to effectively manage inventory, ensuring accurate records and efficient operations.

Q2. Who offers Inventory Control Manager Certifications?

A2. There are several organizations that offer inventory control manager certifications, such as APICS, IMA, and ISM. All of these certifications are widely recognized and accepted by employers across many industries.

Q3. What types of jobs can I get with an Inventory Control Manager Certification?

A3. With an Inventory Control Manager Certification, you can pursue a variety of jobs related to inventory control management, such as warehouse manager, supply chain manager, or purchasing manager. Additionally, some employers may require this certification for certain positions in their organization regardless of job title or description.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as an Inventory Control Manager?

A4: The amount of time it takes to become certified as an Inventory Control Manager varies depending on the type of certification you choose and your level of experience with inventory control management principles and practices. Generally speaking, it will take anywhere from three months to one year to become certified depending on the organization you choose and how much effort you put into studying for the exams/courses required for certification completion.

Q5. Is there a way to renew my Inventory Control Manager Certification?

A5: Yes! Most organizations offering these certifications allow individuals to renew their credentials after a certain number of years (generally three). To renew your certification, you must complete any additional coursework or exams required by the organization providing the credentials and pay any applicable fees associated with renewal process prior to expiration date associated with your current certification status