Top 10 Logistics Associate Certifications

Certifications are important for a logistics associate in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certifications prove that an individual has taken the necessary steps to gain a deeper understanding of the profession and can be used as evidence of an individual's commitment to their professional development. Having certifications on their resume shows employers that a logistics associate is committed to staying up-to-date on industry trends, regulations, and best practices, which can help them stand out from other applicants and make them more competitive in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Logistics Associates and explain how they can help enhance a logistics associate's career.

What are Logistics Associate Certifications?

Logistics associate certification is a professional certification that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in logistics, supply chain management, and related fields. It is designed to help logistics professionals gain greater expertise in the field by providing a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of modern logistics. The certification program covers topics such as inventory management, warehouse operations, materials handling, transportation, international trade regulations, and customer service.

The certification can benefit those who are looking to advance their careers in the logistics field by providing them with the necessary qualifications to land higher-paying positions. Additionally, those holding the certification are likely to be seen as more reliable and capable employees by employers who recognize its value. Logistics associates certified by an accredited organization have demonstrated a strong understanding of critical topics related to managing goods through production and distribution systems. As a result, they will be better equipped to make informed decisions that improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research and understand the requirements for a logistics associate certification before embarking on the certification process. Knowing what is expected of you will help you to be better prepared and increase your chances of success.

Related: What does a Logistics Associate do?

Top 10 Logistics Associate Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Logistics Associates today.

1. Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)

Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of logistics. The certification is offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L).

The CLA program consists of two main components: an online assessment and an in-person workshop. The online assessment covers topics such as supply chain management, transportation, inventory control, customer service, and warehouse operations. The in-person workshop focuses on developing skills related to logistics operations, including problem solving, decision making, communication, and project management.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CLA program. After passing the online assessment and completing the in-person workshop, candidates must submit an application for certification that includes proof of their work experience. Once approved by AST&L, they will receive their CLA certificate.

The cost of the CLA program varies depending on where you take it; however, it generally costs between $500 and $1,000 USD.

2. Certified Logistics Professional (CLP)

Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) is a certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated an advanced level of knowledge and experience in the logistics field. The CLP certification is intended for those who are currently working in the logistics field, or those who wish to advance their career in the field.

The CLP certification requires applicants to pass a written exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, transportation, warehousing, inventory control, customer service, and other related topics. In order to be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in logistics or supply chain management.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their CLP designation within six weeks.

In order to maintain their CLP designation, individuals must complete continuing education credits every two years. This can be done through AST&L approved courses or seminars.

The cost for the CLP certification varies depending on whether you are an AST&L member or not. For non-members, the fee is $395 USD; for members it is $295 USD.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program developed by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved mastery of the essential knowledge and skills in supply chain management.

The CSCP program is divided into three parts:

1. A comprehensive online course that covers all aspects of supply chain management, including global operations, logistics, customer service, technology, and more.

2. A rigorous exam that tests your knowledge of the material covered in the course.

3. An annual maintenance fee to keep your certification active.

The online course typically takes about 18 months to complete and requires approximately 150 hours of study time. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 3 hours. To pass the exam, you must score at least 70%.

The cost of taking the CSCP exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ASCM. For members, it costs $695 USD; for non-members it costs $995 USD. Additionally, an annual maintenance fee of $100 USD must be paid each year to maintain active certification status.

4. APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by APICS, the Association for Operations Management. This certification recognizes professionals who demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in logistics, transportation and distribution. The CLTD credential is designed to help individuals gain a comprehensive understanding of the supply chain logistics industry and its related technologies.

The CLTD certification program consists of nine modules that cover topics such as inventory management, global logistics, transportation modes, warehouse operations, reverse logistics, supply chain security and more. To earn the CLTD designation, candidates must pass an exam that covers all nine modules.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to prepare for the exam depending on your experience level with the material covered in the modules. Candidates can choose to study independently or enroll in a formal training program offered by APICS or an accredited provider.

The cost of earning the CLTD designation varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exam. The cost of taking the exam itself is $695 USD for members of APICS or $895 USD for non-members. If you choose to take a formal training course from APICS or an accredited provider then there will be additional costs associated with that option as well.

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

The International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) is a professional certification program for logistics professionals. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of logistics professionals who have demonstrated mastery in the field.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation, warehousing, and customer service. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of experience in the field or holding a bachelor's degree in logistics or a related field. Applicants must also be current members of SOLE and pay the required application fee.

The application fee for the CPL certification is $400 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam and meeting all other eligibility requirements, applicants will receive their CPL certification from SOLE.

6. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Associate (CSCA)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Associate (CSCA) is a professional certification that demonstrates the holder’s knowledge and proficiency in supply chain management. It is designed to help individuals gain a better understanding of the principles and practices of supply chain management, as well as develop their skills in areas such as inventory control, warehousing, transportation, customer service, and global logistics.

It typically takes around 6-9 months to complete the CSCA program. During this time, you will need to complete two courses: one on supply chain fundamentals and another on supply chain operations. You will also need to pass an exam at the end of each course in order to receive your certification.

To get started with the CSCA program, you will first need to register with APICS and pay the associated fees. Once registered, you will have access to all of the materials needed for the program including textbooks, online resources, practice exams, and more. After completing both courses and passing both exams with a minimum score of 70%, you will be eligible for your CSCA certification.

The cost for the CSCA program varies depending on where you are located but generally ranges from $1,500-$2,000 USD. This includes registration fees as well as costs for textbooks and other materials needed for the program.

7. Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is a professional qualification that provides an understanding of the principles, techniques, and strategies used in the logistics and supply chain industry. It is designed to give individuals a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of logistics and supply chain management.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to complete the CILT Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. The course is divided into four modules: Introduction to Logistics & Supply Chain Management; Planning & Scheduling; Operations & Processes; and Performance Measurement & Improvement. Each module consists of lectures, tutorials, case studies, practical exercises, and assessments.

To get the CILT Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, you must first complete an accredited CILT programme or pass a series of examinations set by the institute. You can find details about accredited programmes on the CILT website. Alternatively, if you choose to take the examinations you will need to register with CILT as an individual member before applying for entry onto their exam system.

The cost of taking the CILT Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management varies depending on whether you are studying through an accredited programme or via exams. If you choose to take an accredited programme then costs will vary depending on which institution you are studying with but typically range from £500-£2000 per module. If you choose to take exams then fees are set by CILT at £150 per paper plus £25 registration fee per paper.

8. Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Certified Professional in Supply Management

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is an internationally recognized certification program designed to recognize and validate the professional knowledge, skills, and abilities of supply management professionals. The CPSM program is designed to help individuals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the field of supply management.

The CPSM certification requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in supply management or related fields. Candidates must also pass three exams that cover topics such as strategic sourcing, contract administration, and global supply chain management. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions, case studies, and essays.

To get the CPSM certification, candidates must first register with ISM and pay a fee of $350. After registration, they will be given access to study materials and practice tests that can help them prepare for the exams. Once they have completed all three exams successfully, they will receive their official CPSM certificate from ISM.

The cost to become a CPSM certified professional varies depending on the number of exams taken and other factors such as additional study materials purchased. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 for all three exams plus any additional study materials needed.

9. International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) Certified Warehouse Operator

The International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) Certified Warehouse Operator is a certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of warehouse operators. The certification is designed to ensure that warehouse operators have the necessary skills to effectively manage and operate a warehouse facility.

The IWLA Certified Warehouse Operator program is open to any individual who has at least two years of experience in a warehouse environment and can demonstrate proficiency in the areas of safety, operations, inventory control, customer service, security, and other related topics. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of these topics.

It typically takes about four weeks to complete the process of becoming an IWLA Certified Warehouse Operator. During this time, applicants must complete an application form and submit it along with proof of their work experience in a warehouse environment. Once the application is approved, applicants will be sent an exam registration form which they must complete and submit with payment for the exam fee ($125). After submitting the registration form and payment, applicants will receive instructions on how to access the online exam.

Once applicants have taken and passed the exam, they will receive their official IWLA Certified Warehouse Operator certificate within two weeks. The cost for becoming an IWLA Certified Warehouse Operator is $125 for the exam fee plus any applicable taxes or fees.

10. Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) Certified Fellow in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) Certified Fellow in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved the highest level of expertise in the logistics and supply chain management field. It is designed to recognize professionals with a deep understanding of the industry, an ability to think strategically, and a commitment to continuous learning.

The CSCMP Certified Fellow in Logistics and Supply Chain Management requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities through a rigorous examination process. The exam consists of two parts: an online multiple-choice test and a written essay. The online test covers topics such as supply chain strategy, operations management, inventory control, transportation management, customer service, technology applications, international trade regulations, and legal aspects of supply chain management. The essay portion requires applicants to provide detailed responses to questions related to their experience in the field.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the certification process. Applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts or letters of recommendation. Once approved by CSCMP’s Certification Committee, applicants are required to register for the exam within 90 days. After successfully completing both parts of the exam, applicants will receive their certification within 6-8 weeks.

The cost for becoming a CSCMP Certified Fellow in Logistics and Supply Chain Management depends on your membership status with CSCMP at the time you apply for certification. For non-members it is $1125 USD; for members it is $825 USD; for student members it is $525 USD; and for senior members it is $425 USD.

Do You Really Need a Logistics Associate Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Logistics Associate Certificate depends on your specific goals and needs. The certificate is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive knowledge base in the field of logistics, including topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, and transportation. It also provides an opportunity for students to gain experience in the field through internships and other hands-on activities.

For those who are interested in pursuing a career in logistics, the certificate can be beneficial in helping them gain entry-level employment. Companies often prefer to hire individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in their chosen field, which can be provided by the certificate. Additionally, having a certificate may show potential employers that an individual is serious about their career and has taken initiative to further their education and skillset.

On the other hand, if someone already has extensive experience working in logistics or has already obtained a degree related to this field, then they may not need to obtain a Logistics Associate Certificate. Instead, they may be able to focus on continuing their education by taking more advanced courses or gaining additional certifications that will help them advance within their current job or pursue higher level positions.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Logistics Associate Certificate depends on your individual goals and needs. If you are looking for entry-level employment opportunities or want to demonstrate your commitment to developing your skillset within the field of logistics, then obtaining this certificate could be beneficial for you.

Related: Logistics Associate Resume Examples

FAQs About Logistics Associate Certifications

1. What is a Logistics Associate Certification?

A Logistics Associate Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the areas of logistics, supply chain management, transportation and warehousing. This certification is offered through various organizations such as the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) and International Quality Federation (IQF).

2. How do I become certified as a Logistics Associate?

In order to become certified as a Logistics Associate, you must complete an approved program of study or training related to logistics. This typically includes courses in operations management, inventory control, project management, quality assurance, transportation logistics and more. After completing the necessary coursework, you will then need to take and pass the required exam for certification.

3. What skills are needed to be successful in logistics?

Successful logistics professionals possess a variety of skills including strong communication and problem-solving abilities; an understanding of supply chain processes; knowledge of software programs used for tracking shipments; experience with warehouse operations; familiarity with regulatory requirements; and excellent customer service skills.

4. What are the benefits of having a Logistics Associate Certification?

Having a Logistics Associate Certification can help demonstrate your expertise in the field of logistics to potential employers or clients. It also provides recognition for your achievements within the industry which can lead to career advancement opportunities or higher salaries. Furthermore, it may also provide access to additional resources such as continuing education courses or networking events related to logistics topics.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Logistics Associate?

Yes, most organizations require applicants to have at least three years of experience working in the field before they can apply for certification. Additionally, some organizations may require applicants to have completed certain educational courses related to logistics before they can sit for the certification exam.