Top 11 Inventory Planner Certifications

Certifications are important for any job market, and inventory planners are no exception. Certification shows employers that the candidate is knowledgeable and skilled in their field. It provides evidence that the individual has taken the time to learn industry-specific best practices, standards, and procedures. This can give employers confidence in the candidate’s ability to make sound decisions when it comes to managing inventory and supply chain operations. Furthermore, certifications provide an advantage over other applicants who may not possess such qualifications.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for inventory planners and discuss how they can help to further an inventory planner's career.

What are Inventory Planner Certifications?

Inventory Planner Certification is a professional certification program designed for those who want to become certified inventory planners. The certification provides an in-depth understanding of the principles and best practices of inventory planning, including forecasting, demand planning, order processing, and inventory optimization. It also covers topics such as supply chain management, logistics, safety stock levels and more.

The certification can help professionals gain a better understanding of the fundamentals of inventory planning and how they can be applied to their own operations. This knowledge will allow them to better identify areas where improvements can be made in order to optimize their organization's inventory levels. With this knowledge, they can develop strategies that will reduce costs associated with overstocking or understocking while also improving customer service by ensuring products are available when needed. Additionally, they will have the ability to better prepare for changes in demand or supply issues that may arise due to external factors such as economic trends or weather conditions.

Overall, Inventory Planner Certification can provide individuals with the skills necessary to become successful inventory planners and help organizations improve their operations by providing them with knowledgeable personnel who understand how best to manage their inventories.

Pro Tip: When considering an inventory planner certification, be sure to research the program thoroughly and make sure it is accredited by a reputable organization. Check for reviews from past students to learn more about the quality of the program, and also look for any additional certifications or qualifications that may be required in order to successfully complete the certification.

Related: What does an Inventory Planner do?

Top 11 Inventory Planner Certifications

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

1. Certified Inventory Planner (CIP)

Certified Inventory Planner (CIP) is a certification program designed to help individuals gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful inventory planners. The CIP program is offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is an online, self-paced program that consists of five modules. Each module takes approximately two weeks to complete and requires passing a final exam.

The CIP curriculum covers topics such as inventory management principles, forecasting techniques, supply chain optimization, and warehouse operations. The program also includes case studies and hands-on activities. Upon completion of the program, students receive a digital badge that they can use to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in inventory planning.

To get Certified Inventory Planner (CIP) certification, you must first register for the program online on ASCM’s website. After registering, you will be able to access the course materials and begin working through the modules at your own pace. Once you have completed all of the modules and passed the final exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your digital badge in recognition of your achievement.

The cost of getting Certified Inventory Planner (CIP) certification varies depending on whether you are an ASCM member or non-member. For members, it costs $595 USD; for non-members it costs $795 USD.

2. Certified Professional Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Professional Inventory Manager (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIM program is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage inventory in today’s complex global supply chain environment.

The CPIM program consists of two parts: Part 1: Basics of Supply Chain Management, and Part 2: Master Planning of Resources. Both parts consist of five modules that cover topics such as demand management, inventory planning, purchasing and supplier planning, material requirements planning, and execution and control of operations.

It takes approximately three months to complete the CPIM program. To get certified, you must pass both Parts 1 and 2 with a minimum score of 70%. You can take the exams at any APICS-approved testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost for the CPIM program varies depending on your APICS membership status. Non-members pay $1,400 for both Parts 1 and 2; members pay $1,200 for both Parts 1 and 2; and student members pay $800 for both Parts 1 and 2.

3. 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 provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage global supply chain activities. The certification provides a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management concepts, including customer relations, logistics, operations, procurement, and technology.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CSCP program. To get certified, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain strategy and design, customer relationship management, global logistics management, operations and production planning, supplier relationship management, quality assurance and control, and inventory management. You can also take an online course or attend in-person classes to prepare for the exam.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exam. The ASCM offers several options for study materials ranging from $100-$500 USD. Additionally, there is a fee of $695 USD for taking the exam itself.

Overall, becoming a Certified Supply Chain Professional can be an invaluable asset to your career in supply chain management. It demonstrates your expertise in the field and provides recognition of your commitment to excellence in this competitive industry.

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

APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is an internationally recognized certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to understand and manage the interrelationships between production and inventory management. 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 program typically takes about 12-18 months to complete. To get certified, you must pass all five exams associated with the program. Each exam is two hours long and consists of multiple-choice questions. You can purchase study materials for each exam from APICS or other third-party vendors.

The cost for the CPIM certification varies depending on how you choose to take the exams. If you take all five exams at once, it will cost $1,295 for APICS members ($1,495 for non-members). Alternatively, you can pay per exam which costs $295 per exam for APICS members ($395 per exam for non-members).

5. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certification

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certification is an internationally recognized professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to excel in the field of operations management. It is designed for professionals who are responsible for managing production and inventory control activities, including forecasting, purchasing, scheduling, and quality assurance.

To get APICS Certification, you must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, production planning and control, and quality management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum passing score of 70%. The exam typically takes about three hours to complete.

In order to become certified by APICS, you must first register for the exam online or through your local APICS chapter. After registering for the exam, you will need to purchase study materials from APICS or other sources in order to prepare for the test. Once you have studied sufficiently, you can then take the exam at an authorized testing center.

The cost of taking the APICS Certification Exam varies depending on where you take it. In most cases, it costs between $400-$500 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with purchasing study materials or registering for the exam.

Once you have passed the exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your official APICS Certification within 3-4 weeks after completing your test. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

6. International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certified Professional Logistician (CPL)

The International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of logistics. The CPL is awarded to those who have met the requirements for education, experience, and examination.

To become a SOLE Certified Professional Logistician, an individual must have at least five years of full-time experience in logistics, supply chain management, or related fields. They must also complete an approved course of study in logistics or supply chain management from an accredited college or university. Finally, they must pass the Certified Professional Logistician Examination administered by SOLE.

The CPL exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as inventory control systems, transportation systems, warehousing operations, and global logistics management. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and is offered twice a year at various locations around the world.

The cost for taking the CPL exam is $350 USD for members of SOLE and $450 USD for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual membership fee to join SOLE which varies depending on the type of membership desired.

Once all requirements are met and the exam has been passed successfully, individuals will receive their official certificate from SOLE and will be recognized as a Certified Professional Logistician (CPL).

7. Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is an industry-recognized certification program that provides professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field of purchasing. It is a comprehensive, multi-level certification program that covers all aspects of supply chain management, from procurement to logistics and operations. The CPM certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in the areas of strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, supplier management, and cost containment.

To become certified as a CPM, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a bachelor’s degree or higher in business or related field; five years of professional experience in purchasing or supply chain management; and passing an examination administered by ISM. Once these requirements are met, applicants can then apply for the CPM certification.

The process typically takes about three months to complete. During this time, applicants must complete an application form and submit official transcripts from their college or university. They will also need to provide proof of professional experience in purchasing or supply chain management and pass the CPM examination administered by ISM.

The cost of becoming a CPM varies depending on factors such as country/region and type of membership chosen. Generally speaking, it costs around $600 to become a member of ISM and take the exam for the CPM certification. This fee includes access to study materials and other resources necessary for success on the exam.

8. Association for Operations Management (APICS-CPIM) Certification

The Association for Operations Management (APICS-CPIM) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage operations in a variety of industries. This certification is offered by the APICS organization, which is an international association dedicated to advancing the field of operations management.

The CPIM certification requires candidates to pass two exams: Basics of Supply Chain Management and Master Planning of Resources. The Basics exam covers topics such as supply chain fundamentals, inventory management, materials requirements planning, and production activity control. The Master Planning exam covers topics such as capacity planning, master scheduling, sales and operations planning, forecasting, and project management.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPIM program depending on how much time you are able to devote to studying for the exams. To get started with the program you must first register with APICS and pay the registration fee which varies depending on your membership status with APICS. Once registered you will be given access to all study materials needed for both exams. You can then begin studying for both exams at your own pace either online or through self-study courses offered by APICS or its partners.

Once you have completed all required study materials you can then register for each exam separately through APICS’s website or through one of their authorized testing centers located around the world. Each exam costs $195 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking it at an authorized testing center. After passing both exams you will receive your official CPIM certificate from APICS confirming that you have achieved this level of expertise in operations management.

9. Association of Supply Chain Management Professionals (ASCM-CPIM) Certification

The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) Certified Professional in Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the core concepts and principles in inventory management. This certification is designed to help supply chain professionals gain a competitive edge by demonstrating their knowledge and expertise in inventory management.

The CPIM certification program consists of two parts: the Basics of Supply Chain Management (BSCM) exam and the Master Planning of Resources (MPR) exam. The BSCM exam covers topics such as supply chain strategy, demand planning, forecasting, inventory management, purchasing and procurement, and warehouse operations. The MPR exam focuses on topics such as capacity planning, production scheduling, resource optimization, quality control, and performance measurement.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete both exams depending on your level of study and preparation. To get started with the CPIM certification program you must first become a member of ASCM which requires an annual fee. After becoming a member you will be able to register for the exams through the ASCM website. Each exam costs $250 USD per attempt plus any applicable taxes or fees.

Once you have successfully passed both exams you will receive your CPIM certification from ASCM which is valid for three years from the date of issue. You must then maintain your certification by completing at least 50 hours of continuing education activities every three years to keep it current.

10. National Association of Purchasing Managers (NAPM-CPIM) Certification

The National Association of Purchasing Managers (NAPM-CPIM) Certification is a professional certification program for purchasing and supply chain professionals. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage the global supply chain. The NAPM-CPIM certification program is administered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM).

The program consists of two exams: the Basics of Supply Chain Management (BSCM) and the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). The BSCM exam covers topics such as procurement, inventory management, logistics, forecasting, and supplier relations. The CPSM exam covers topics such as strategic sourcing, performance measurement, risk management, contracts, and negotiation.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete both exams. To get certified you must first apply online with ISM and pay a fee of $495 USD. Once your application is approved you will be able to register for the exams. You must then pass both exams within 3 years in order to receive your certification.

Once you have passed both exams you will receive a certificate from ISM that states that you are a Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). This certificate will be valid for 5 years before it needs to be renewed.

11. International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA-CPIM) Certification

The International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA-CPIM) is a professional certification program that provides recognition for individuals who demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in warehouse logistics. The IWLA-CPIM certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the principles, processes, and practices of warehouse logistics.

It takes approximately three to six months to complete the IWLA-CPIM certification process. The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as inventory management, materials handling, distribution systems, customer service, and safety procedures. The practical assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply the concepts learned in the written exam in real-world scenarios.

To get the IWLA-CPIM certification, applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documents and payment of fees. After submitting the application form, applicants must pass both the written exam and practical assessment before they can be certified. Once certified, applicants will receive an official certificate from IWLA-CPIM that will be valid for three years.

The cost for obtaining the IWLA-CPIM certification varies depending on where you live and whether or not you are a member of IWLA. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 to $500 USD for nonmembers and around $300 USD for members to obtain this certification.

Do You Really Need a Inventory Planner Certificate?

Whether or not you need an inventory planner certificate depends on your career goals. If you are looking to become an inventory planner, then having a certificate in this field is essential. It will demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out the job effectively. However, if you are looking for a job related to inventory planning but do not necessarily want to become an inventory planner, then a certificate may not be necessary.

In any case, having a certificate in inventory planning can be beneficial as it shows that you have taken the time and effort to gain relevant knowledge and skills in the field. Furthermore, employers may prefer candidates with certification as they know they possess the necessary competencies to carry out the job properly. Additionally, having a certificate can help your resume stand out from other applicants who may not have any formal training in this area.

In conclusion, whether or not you need an inventory planner certificate depends on your career goals and ambitions. If becoming an inventory planner is something you aspire to, then obtaining such a certification is essential. However, if your desired role does not require formal training in this field, then having a certificate may still be beneficial as it can demonstrate commitment and knowledge of the subject matter.

Related: Inventory Planner Resume Examples

FAQs About Inventory Planner Certifications

Q1: What is an Inventory Planner Certification?

A1: An Inventory Planner Certification is a professional certification that validates one's knowledge and experience in the field of inventory planning. It demonstrates a mastery of inventory planning principles, including forecasting, demand planning, supply chain management, and other related topics.

Q2: How do I become certified as an Inventory Planner?

A2: To become certified as an Inventory Planner, you must complete a comprehensive training program and pass an exam. The training program typically consists of classroom instruction, online courses, and hands-on practice with real-world scenarios. Once you have completed the program and passed the exam, you will be eligible to receive your certification.

Q3: What are the benefits of becoming certified?

A3: Becoming certified as an Inventory Planner can open up many career opportunities in the field. It also helps to demonstrate your commitment to excellence in the field and can help you stand out from other applicants for job positions. Additionally, it can provide access to continuing education opportunities and networking events that may not be available otherwise.

Q4: How often do I need to renew my certification?

A4: You must renew your certification every two years in order to maintain its validity. This involves completing continuing education courses or attending approved conferences or workshops related to inventory planning topics. You will also need to take a refresher exam at least once every two years in order to keep your certification active.

Q5: Is there any financial assistance available for obtaining my certification?

A5: Yes, some employers may offer financial assistance for obtaining certifications such as this one. Additionally, there are a variety of scholarships and grants available specifically for those pursuing certifications in inventory planning or related fields.