Top 10 Inventory Controller Certifications

Certifications are important for an inventory controller in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certified inventory controllers have the skills and experience to effectively manage the supply chain, track inventory levels, and ensure that all inventory is accurately recorded. These certifications also show potential employers that the individual has a commitment to their profession and is dedicated to staying up-to-date with industry trends. In addition, certified inventory controllers often receive preferential treatment from employers since they have already demonstrated their expertise in this field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Inventory Controllers and explains how they can help to advance an inventory controller's career.

What are Inventory Controller Certifications?

Inventory Controller Certification is a professional certification program designed to help those in the inventory control field improve their knowledge, skills, and abilities. The certification provides training and guidance on best practices for inventory management, as well as providing insight into the latest technologies being used in the industry. This allows inventory controllers to stay up to date with the most current trends and techniques being used in inventory control.

Certification can also help provide recognition of an individual’s expertise, which can be useful when looking for new employment opportunities or advancements within a current organization. In addition, employers may look favorably upon potential candidates who have earned their Inventory Controller Certification as it shows a commitment to learning and staying current with industry standards.

Ultimately, earning an Inventory Controller Certification can be beneficial to those interested in increasing their knowledge and improving their ability to manage inventory effectively. Not only does it provide recognition of one’s expertise, but it also helps increase job prospects and overall career success.

Pro Tip: When looking to become an inventory controller, make sure to invest in a certification program that is accredited by the National Association of Inventory Management (NAIM). This will ensure that you have the most up-to-date knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage inventory and maximize productivity.

Related: What does an Inventory Controller do?

Top 10 Inventory Controller Certifications

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

1. Certified Inventory Manager (CIM)

Certified Inventory Manager (CIM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of inventory management. The CIM program is administered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), formerly known as APICS.

The CIM certification program consists of two components: a written exam and an oral exam. The written exam covers topics such as inventory planning, forecasting, and control; supply chain management; and warehouse operations. The oral exam focuses on leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CIM certification process from start to finish. To get started, you must first register with ASCM and pay the applicable registration fee. After registering, you will be provided with access to study materials that will help you prepare for both parts of the exam. Once you feel ready to take the exams, you can schedule them with ASCM at an approved testing center near you.

The cost of obtaining your Certified Inventory Manager certification varies depending on your country or region of residence but generally ranges from $400-$600 USD for both parts of the exam combined.

2. Certified Professional Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Professional Inventory Manager (CPIM) is a professional certification program developed by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to help professionals in the inventory management field to demonstrate their knowledge and skills, and to advance their career. The CPIM program consists of five courses that cover topics such as demand planning, procurement and supplier planning, material requirements planning, inventory control, and distribution resources planning.

The CPIM program typically takes around 12 months to complete. To get certified, you must pass all five exams within a three-year period. You can take the exams at any time during this period; however, it is recommended that you complete them within 18 months for best results.

In order to sit for the exams, you must be a member of APICS or purchase an exam voucher from APICS. Exam vouchers cost $200 each for members and $400 each for non-members. Once you have passed all five exams, you will receive your CPIM certification from APICS.

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

Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics. The CLTD certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the logistics, transportation and distribution field. It is an internationally recognized credential that validates your knowledge, skills and abilities in this area.

The CLTD certification requires you to pass an exam that covers 11 different subject areas related to logistics, transportation and distribution. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within four hours. To prepare for the exam, you can take a self-study course or attend a live seminar.

It typically takes about 3-6 months to complete the CLTD certification process depending on how quickly you can study for the exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate from AST&L.

The cost of obtaining the CLTD certification varies depending on which preparation materials you choose to use. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 USD to become certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD).

4. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional 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 principles and practices. The CSCP certification is the only supply chain certification that covers the end-to-end global supply chain.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics including supply chain design and strategy, customer relationship management, demand planning, inventory management, logistics and transportation, warehouse operations, and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes three hours to complete.

The cost of obtaining the CSCP certification varies depending on your membership status with ASCM. For non-members, the cost is $995 USD; for members it is $795 USD; and for students it is $450 USD.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CSCP exam. To help you prepare for the exam, ASCM offers various study materials such as online courses, practice exams, study guides and more.

5. APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program designed to help production and inventory management professionals gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage global operations. The CPIM program consists of two levels: Basics of Supply Chain Management and Master Planning of Resources.

The Basics of Supply Chain Management covers topics such as supply chain strategy, inventory management, demand planning, procurement and supplier relationships, customer service management, and operations performance measurement. The Master Planning of Resources covers topics such as capacity requirements planning, master scheduling, material requirements planning, forecasting techniques, project management principles, and integrated business systems.

It typically takes about 6-12 months for an individual to complete the CPIM program depending on their level of commitment. To get started with the CPIM program individuals must first become an APICS member which costs $195 for a one year membership or $395 for a three year membership. After becoming an APICS member individuals can then register for the CPIM exams which cost $295 per exam. Once all five exams have been passed individuals will receive their CPIM certification.

6. American Purchasing Society’s Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP)

The Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP) is a certification offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of purchasing professionals. The CPP certification is based on the APS’s body of knowledge that covers topics such as procurement strategy, contracts, negotiations, supplier relationships, and risk management.

To become certified as a CPP, you must pass an exam administered by the APS. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of purchasing and supply chain management. You must score at least 70% on the exam to be certified.

The cost for taking the CPP exam is $495 for members of the APS and $595 for non-members. The exam can be taken either online or in person at an approved testing center.

In order to prepare for the CPP exam, it is recommended that you have at least two years of professional experience in purchasing or supply chain management. Additionally, there are several study materials available from the APS that can help you prepare for the exam.

Once you have passed the CPP exam, your certification will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires proof of continuing education credits or re-examination.

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 professionals with the knowledge and experience necessary to lead supply chain operations.

To become certified, individuals must pass three exams: Fundamentals of Supply Management, Strategic Sourcing and Category Management, and Business Acumen. The exams are administered online through ISM’s testing partner, Pearson VUE. Each exam takes three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CPSM certification, applicants must have at least five years of professional supply management experience or a combination of education and experience that totals five years. They must also agree to abide by ISM’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

The cost of the CPSM certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and the payment plan chosen. The total cost ranges from $1,400 to $2,000 USD. This includes registration fees for each exam as well as an annual renewal fee of $100 USD per year after passing all three exams.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all three exams required for the CPSM certification.

8. International Quality Federation’s Certified Quality Inventory Manager (CQIM)

The Certified Quality Inventory Manager (CQIM) is a certification program offered by the International Quality Federation (IQF). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in inventory management. The CQIM certification is intended to provide employers with assurance that the holder has the skills and abilities necessary to effectively manage inventory operations.

To get the CQIM certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by IQF. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as inventory control systems, inventory planning and forecasting, inventory optimization techniques, and supply chain management. Applicants must score at least 70% on the exam in order to be awarded the CQIM certification.

The cost of taking the CQIM exam varies depending on your country of residence, but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD. The exam can be taken online or at an IQF-approved testing center. It usually takes about two hours to complete the exam.

Once you have passed the exam and been awarded your CQIM certification, you will receive a certificate and digital badge which you can use to demonstrate your credentials on professional websites such as LinkedIn. You will also be listed in IQF’s public directory of certified professionals, making it easier for employers to find you when they are looking for qualified candidates for open positions in inventory management.

9. American Production and Inventory Control Society’s Certified Master Production Scheduler (CMPS)

The Certified Master Production Scheduler (CMPS) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). The CMPS certification is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated a mastery of production scheduling and inventory control principles. It is an advanced certification that requires a comprehensive understanding of production scheduling, inventory management, and related topics.

To become certified as a CMPS, applicants must first pass a written exam. This exam covers topics such as supply chain management, production planning and scheduling, inventory control systems, and quality assurance. Once the written exam has been passed, applicants must complete a project demonstrating their proficiency in the areas covered on the exam. This project must be approved by APICS before certification can be awarded.

The entire process typically takes between four to six months to complete depending on the individual’s experience level and commitment to studying for the exam. There are also several online study resources available to help prepare for the CMPS exam.

The cost of becoming certified as a CMPS varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. For non-members, it costs $550 USD for the application fee plus $450 USD for each module taken. For members, it costs $400 USD for the application fee plus $350 USD for each module taken.

10. Association for Operations Management’s Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD).

The Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of logistics, transportation and distribution. The CLTD program provides an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates mastery of a comprehensive body of knowledge in the area.

The CLTD certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, transportation management, warehouse operations, global logistics and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CLTD certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in logistics, transportation or distribution. Alternatively, they can substitute one year of experience with a related degree or APICS CPIM/CSCP/SCOR-P certification.

The cost of the CLTD exam varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or non-member. For members, the cost is $395 USD while non-members must pay $495 USD. In addition to the exam fee, there is also an application fee which costs $50 USD for both members and non-members.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam and paid all applicable fees, they will receive their CLTD certificate within four weeks. The certificate is valid for five years from the date it was issued. After five years have passed, applicants must retake the exam in order to maintain their certification status.

Do You Really Need a Inventory Controller Certificate?

Inventory control is a vital part of the supply chain process. It helps businesses track and manage the movement of goods, ensuring that the right amount of inventory is available when needed. If you are looking to enter or advance in this field, it may be beneficial to obtain an inventory controller certificate.

Having a certification can give employers confidence in your knowledge and skills as an inventory controller. It shows them that you have taken the time to learn about the industry and understand its complexities. A certification also provides proof that you have achieved a certain level of proficiency in this area. Furthermore, having a certificate can help you stand out among other applicants for jobs related to inventory control.

While having an inventory controller certificate isn’t absolutely necessary, it can be beneficial for those who want to show their dedication to the field and demonstrate their expertise. With more competition than ever for positions related to inventory control, having a certification may give you an edge over other applicants who don’t possess one. The ability to prove your knowledge and skills through a certificate could make all the difference when employers are reviewing applications for these positions.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an inventory controller certificate depends on your goals and objectives. If you want to pursue a career in this field, then obtaining a certification could be a smart move that gives you an advantage over other applicants. On the other hand, if you already have experience in inventory control or are simply looking for entry-level positions without any training requirements, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain certification at this time.

Related: Inventory Controller Resume Examples

FAQs About Inventory Controller Certifications

1. How do I become an inventory controller?

Answer: To become an inventory controller, you must have a combination of education and experience in the field. Typically, employers require a bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field as well as experience in warehouse operations and/or supply chain management. In addition, you may need to obtain certification from an accredited organization such as the Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS).

2. What kind of job can I get with an inventory controller certification?

Answer: With an inventory controller certification, you can pursue a variety of positions in the supply chain industry including warehouse manager, logistics coordinator, procurement specialist and more. The specific job opportunities available to you will depend on your educational background and experience.

3. How long does it take to complete an inventory controller certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to complete an inventory controller certification can vary depending on the program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs require around 30 hours of study and can be completed within 3-6 months.

4. Does having an inventory controller certification increase my salary?

Answer: Having an inventory controller certification may increase your salary depending on the company you work for and your level of experience. Employers often value certifications because it shows that you have specialized knowledge about the industry which can make you more qualified for certain positions. However, it’s important to note that certifications are not always necessary for certain positions so it’s best to research what is required before committing to any certifications.

5. What is covered in an inventory controller certification program?

Answer: Inventory Controller Certification programs typically cover topics such as warehouse operations, supply chain management, product tracking systems, inventory control methods and more. These courses provide students with a comprehensive overview of how to effectively manage the flow of materials through the supply chain process while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.