Top 10 Logistics Supervisor Certifications

Certifications are important for a logistics supervisor in the job market because they provide employers with evidence of a candidate’s expertise and commitment to their profession. They demonstrate that the individual has gone above and beyond to gain specialized knowledge in their chosen field, which can be beneficial when competing with other job seekers. Certified logistics supervisors also have access to exclusive industry resources, such as special training and seminars, which can help them stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices. Finally, certifications lend credibility to a logistics supervisor’s resume, making them more attractive candidates for positions within their chosen field.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Logistics Supervisors and explains how they can help advance their career in the field.

What are Logistics Supervisor Certifications?

Logistics supervisor certification is a type of professional certification offered by the International Association of Logistics Management (IALM). It is designed to help logistics supervisors and managers develop their skills, knowledge, and abilities in order to effectively manage supply chain operations. This certification provides training and education on topics such as transportation management, inventory management, warehousing, customer service, quality assurance, safety regulations, and cost analysis.

By obtaining this certification, logistics supervisors are able to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in logistics management. This can lead to increased job security and advancement opportunities within the field. It also helps employers identify qualified candidates for open positions. Additionally, having a logistics supervisor certification can give current employees an edge when applying for higher-level positions or promotions within a company.

In addition to increasing job opportunities and career advancement potential for those who possess it, the certification also helps organizations gain a competitive advantage in the market by providing them with more knowledgeable professionals that can better manage their supply chain operations. As a result, businesses are able to reduce costs associated with inefficient processes while improving customer service levels and delivery times.

Pro Tip: When considering logistics supervisor certification, be sure to research the various certifications available and make sure that the one you choose meets your needs. Look for certifications that are offered by a reputable organization and that are recognized in your industry. Additionally, consider any prerequisites or continuing education requirements associated with the certification, as these will help ensure you stay up to date on the latest trends in logistics.

Related: What does a Logistics Supervisor do?

Top 10 Logistics Supervisor Certifications

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

1. Certified Logistics Supervisor (CLS)

Certified Logistics Supervisor (CLS) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The program was designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated superior knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of logistics management.

The CLS certification is an internationally recognized credential for those working in logistics and supply chain management. It requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as inventory control, transportation, warehousing, and customer service. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience in logistics or supply chain management.

The CLS exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for the exam is $595 USD. Upon successful completion, applicants will receive their official CLS certificate from AST&L. The certification is valid for three years before renewal is required.

2. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved mastery in the field of supply chain management. The CSCP certification is globally recognized as the premier supply chain management certification.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online learning system, an exam, and a professional development program. The online learning system covers topics such as global supply chain management, customer relations management, operations and production planning, inventory control, transportation and logistics, materials requirements planning, quality control, and more. The exam tests knowledge gained from the online learning system and requires a minimum score of 70% to pass.

The professional development program includes activities such as attending seminars or workshops on supply chain topics; participating in webinars; writing articles for industry publications; presenting at conferences; or teaching courses related to supply chain management. This helps to ensure that CSCP-certified professionals stay up-to-date on current trends in the field.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the CSCP program depending on how quickly you can complete the online learning system and prepare for the exam.

To get certified as a CSCP professional, you must first register with APICS and pay their registration fee which is currently $695 USD for members or $895 USD for non-members. After registering, you will be given access to the online learning system which you must complete before taking the exam. Once you have successfully passed your exam, you will receive your official CSCP certification from APICS.

3. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a thorough understanding of production and inventory management concepts, principles, and practices.

The CPIM program consists of two exams: Basics of Supply Chain Management (BSCM) and Master Planning of Resources (MPR). The BSCM exam covers topics such as supply chain fundamentals, operations planning, quality control, inventory management, procurement, customer service, and logistics. The MPR exam covers topics such as demand forecasting, capacity planning, master scheduling, material requirements planning (MRP), just-in-time (JIT), total quality management (TQM), and lean manufacturing.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to complete the CPIM program. To get started on the path to becoming certified in production and inventory management you must first register for an APICS membership. You can then purchase study materials from APICS or take an instructor-led course at an APICS Training Center. Once you feel ready for the exams you can register for them through the APICS website.

The cost of the CPIM program varies depending on how you choose to pursue it. The cost of purchasing study materials from APICS ranges from $400-$1000 depending on which materials you choose to purchase. Taking an instructor-led course at an APICS Training Center will cost around $2000-$3000 depending on your location. Finally, each exam costs $225 if taken separately or $425 if taken together as part of a bundle package.

4. International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Logistics Supervisor Certification

The International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Logistics Supervisor Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize professionals in the logistics field who have demonstrated their expertise in the areas of supply chain management, transportation, inventory control, and customer service. This certification is designed to help employers identify qualified logistics supervisors who have the knowledge and experience necessary to lead their teams.

To obtain the SOLE Logistics Supervisor Certification, applicants must complete an online application and submit it along with proof of their education, experience, and training in logistics-related topics. Once their application has been approved by SOLE, applicants must then pass a written exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, customer service, transportation management, and other related topics. The exam typically takes two hours to complete and costs $150 USD.

Once applicants have passed the exam they will receive their certification from SOLE which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires applicants to demonstrate continued professional development through additional education or training in logistics-related topics. The cost of renewal is $100 USD every three years.

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

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Logistics Supervisor Certification is a professional certification designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of logistics supervisors. This certification provides employers with assurance that their logistics supervisors have the necessary skills to effectively manage inventory, production, and distribution operations.

The APICS Logistics Supervisor Certification is a three-level program consisting of the following:

1. Foundation Level: The foundation level covers basic concepts in inventory management, supply chain management, and logistics operations. This level requires successful completion of an online exam which takes approximately two hours to complete.

2. Intermediate Level: The intermediate level covers more advanced topics related to inventory control, transportation, warehousing, and customer service. This level requires successful completion of an online exam which takes approximately four hours to complete.

3. Advanced Level: The advanced level covers topics such as project management, process improvement, risk management, and leadership development. This level requires successful completion of an online exam which takes approximately six hours to complete.

In order to obtain the APICS Logistics Supervisor Certification, individuals must pass all three levels of the program within two years from the date they begin their studies. It typically takes between six months and one year for individuals to successfully complete all three levels depending on their study habits and prior experience in logistics operations.

The cost for obtaining the APICS Logistics Supervisor Certification varies based on individual circumstances but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD including course materials and exam fees.

6. American Society of Transportation & Logistics (AST&L) Logistics Supervisor Certification

The American Society of Transportation & Logistics (AST&L) Logistics Supervisor Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of logistics supervisors. The certification is offered by AST&L, which is an international professional organization dedicated to advancing the science and practice of transportation and logistics.

The AST&L Logistics Supervisor Certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in a supervisory role in the transportation or logistics field. Applicants must also complete a written exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, customer service, and safety regulations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To obtain the certification, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume and proof of experience in the field. After submitting their application materials, applicants will receive notification within four weeks if they are approved for the certification.

The cost of obtaining the AST&L Logistics Supervisor Certification varies depending on whether you are an AST&L member or non-member. For members, it costs $150 USD for initial registration plus $125 USD per year for renewal fees. For non-members, it costs $250 USD for initial registration plus $200 USD per year for renewal fees.

Overall, obtaining the AST&L Logistics Supervisor Certification can take up to six weeks from start to finish – four weeks for approval after submitting your application materials, plus two hours to complete the exam itself.

7. Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) Logistics Supervisor Certification

The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) Logistics Supervisor Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to effectively manage logistics operations. The certification is designed to provide supervisors with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure efficient and cost-effective logistics operations.

The ASCM Logistics Supervisor Certification consists of two parts: a written exam and an online course. The written exam covers topics such as warehouse management, inventory control, transportation management, customer service, supply chain management, and more. The online course provides an in-depth look at the principles of logistics operations.

It typically takes approximately three months to complete the ASCM Logistics Supervisor Certification program. During this time, candidates must complete the written exam and the online course. Once both components are completed successfully, candidates will receive their certification from ASCM.

The cost of obtaining the ASCM Logistics Supervisor Certification varies depending on whether or not you are an ASCM member. For non-members, the cost is $395 USD for members it is $295 USD.

8. Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Logistics Supervisor Certification

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Logistics Supervisor Certification is a professional certification program that provides training and development for logistics supervisors. The certification is designed to help logistics supervisors develop the skills needed to effectively manage their operations. It covers topics such as inventory management, supply chain management, customer service, and more.

To get the ISM Logistics Supervisor Certification, you must first complete a series of online courses and exams. These courses are offered through the ISM Learning Center and cover topics such as inventory control, supply chain management, customer service, and more. Once you have completed all of the required courses and exams, you will be eligible to take the final exam which will test your knowledge of the material covered in the coursework.

The cost of obtaining the ISM Logistics Supervisor Certification varies depending on how many courses you take and how long it takes you to complete them. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on how many courses you take and how quickly you finish them.

Once you have obtained your ISM Logistics Supervisor Certification, it is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. To renew your certification, you must retake all of the required courses and exams again.

9. Council of Supply Chain Professionals (CSCMP) Logistics Supervisor Certification

The Council of Supply Chain Professionals (CSCMP) Logistics Supervisor Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of logistics supervisors. It is designed to validate the expertise of professionals in supply chain management, logistics operations, and related fields. The certification is awarded by CSCMP, a leading global organization for supply chain and logistics professionals.

To become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience in a supervisory role in the field of logistics or supply chain management. They must also pass an exam administered by CSCMP that covers topics such as inventory management, transportation management, warehousing and distribution, customer service, and more.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Applicants must score at least 70% on the exam to be certified.

The cost for the CSCMP Logistics Supervisor Certification is $450 USD for members of CSCMP or $550 USD for non-members. This fee covers the cost of the exam as well as access to study materials and other resources provided by CSCMP.

Overall, obtaining the CSCMP Logistics Supervisor Certification requires dedication and commitment from applicants but can provide them with valuable recognition in their field that can lead to better career opportunities.

10. Global Supply Chain Council (GSCC) Logistics Supervisor Certification

The Global Supply Chain Council (GSCC) Logistics Supervisor Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of logistics professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in the field. The certification is intended to help employers identify qualified personnel for supervisory positions in supply chain and logistics operations.

The GSCC Logistics Supervisor Certification is a two-level program. Level 1 focuses on understanding the fundamentals of supply chain and logistics management, while Level 2 covers more advanced topics such as inventory control, warehouse management, and transportation management. To become certified at either level, individuals must pass an exam administered by GSCC.

The Level 1 exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain strategy, customer service, inventory control, warehouse operations, and transportation management. The Level 2 exam includes case studies that require candidates to analyze real-world scenarios and make decisions based on their analysis.

It typically takes about six months to complete the GSCC Logistics Supervisor Certification program. Candidates must first register with the GSCC website and pay the associated fees before they can take the exams. The cost of registration varies depending on which level of certification you are seeking but typically ranges from $200 to $400 USD. After passing both exams, applicants will receive their official certificate from GSCC within two weeks.

Do You Really Need a Logistics Supervisor Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals and the specific job requirements. For some positions, a Logistics Supervisor Certificate may be necessary in order to demonstrate knowledge of logistics operations and management. For other positions, such a certificate may not be required but could still be beneficial for obtaining a promotion or higher salary.

For those seeking employment in the logistics field, having a Logistics Supervisor Certificate can be an advantage when competing against other applicants. It demonstrates that the person has obtained specialized knowledge about logistics and management processes that is necessary for success in the profession. Having such certification also shows employers that the individual is committed to their profession and has taken steps to continuously improve their skillset.

On the other hand, having a Logistics Supervisor Certificate is not always required for certain jobs in logistics. In some cases, employers may prefer candidates who have more experience or who have achieved higher levels of education over someone who has obtained a certificate but lacks real-world experience in the field. Therefore, it is important to research the specific requirements of each position before making any decisions related to obtaining certification.

In conclusion, whether or not one needs a Logistics Supervisor Certificate depends on their career goals and job requirements. While having such certification can be beneficial for those seeking employment in logistics, it is not always necessary for certain positions within the field. Therefore, it is important to do research into both individual career goals and job requirements before deciding whether or not to pursue such certification.

Related: Logistics Supervisor Resume Examples

FAQs About Logistics Supervisor Certifications

1. What is a Logistics Supervisor Certification?

Answer: A Logistics Supervisor Certification is an industry-recognized certification that provides recognition for individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills to plan, coordinate, and manage the supply chain logistics activities of an organization.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a Logistics Supervisor Certification?

Answer: The requirements vary depending on the certifying body, but generally include a combination of work experience and education related to logistics management, such as a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or a related field. You may also need to pass an exam or complete a project or portfolio review in order to be certified.

3. How long is a Logistics Supervisor Certification valid?

Answer: Generally, certifications are valid for two years and must be renewed every two years by completing continuing education courses or taking an exam.

4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Logistics Supervisor Certification?

Answer: Yes, some certifying bodies may require applicants to have at least three years of professional experience in logistics management before they can apply for certification. Additionally, applicants must meet certain education and/or work experience requirements depending on the certifying body.

5. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Logistics Supervisor Certification?

Answer: Yes, there may be associated costs such as application fees, exam fees, and/or continuing education course fees depending on the certifying body you choose.