Top 10 Material Controller Certifications

Certifications are important for a material controller in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job successfully. Certifications also show potential employers that an individual is dedicated to their profession and takes it seriously. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement in the field, as they indicate a certain level of mastery of material control practices. Finally, certifications can provide recognition from peers and industry leaders as well as a competitive edge in the job market.

The article reviews the top certifications for Material Controllers and outlines how they can be beneficial to advancing a material controller's career.

What are Material Controller Certifications?

Material Controller Certification is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of inventory control. This certification is designed to provide employers with a reliable indication of an individual's understanding of the principles, practices, and techniques necessary to effectively manage inventory.

Material Controllers are responsible for tracking and managing materials throughout their life cycle, from acquisition to disposal. They must have a thorough understanding of the entire supply chain process as well as how to best utilize technology and tools to optimize it. The certification ensures that these professionals have the skills needed to effectively manage all aspects of material control, including:

• Inventory planning and control
• Vendor selection and negotiation
• Purchasing procedures
• Quality assurance
• Shipping/receiving practices
• Cost management

By obtaining this certification, professionals show potential employers that they have a comprehensive understanding of the field and are dedicated to staying on top of industry trends. Additionally, it provides them with recognition within their respective fields, which can lead to career advancement opportunities. Furthermore, having this certification can make individuals more marketable when searching for new job opportunities. Ultimately, Material Controller Certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants while giving them the confidence they need to excel in their roles.

Pro Tip: When considering material controller certification, make sure to do research into the different available certifications and the requirements for each one. Also, consider taking a course or attending a seminar to better understand the principles and practices of material control. Finally, make sure you have a good understanding of the standards set by organizations such as ISO 9001 and AS9100 before attempting certification.

Related: What does a Material Controller do?

Top 10 Material Controller Certifications

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

1. Certified Material and Logistics Manager (CMLM)

Certified Material and Logistics Manager (CMLM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the management of materials and logistics. The CMLM certification is offered by the International Association of Logistic Management (IALM).

In order to become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in materials and/or logistics management. They must also pass a series of examinations that cover topics such as inventory control, warehousing, transportation, supply chain management, and customer service.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the application process and take the exams. Applicants can apply online or download an application form from IALM’s website.

The cost for the CMLM certification is $595 for members of IALM and $795 for non-members. The fee covers all of the necessary materials and exams needed to become certified.

2. Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP)

Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of purchasing and supply chain management. The CPP designation is awarded by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a leading global association for supply management professionals.

To become certified, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as procurement processes, contract law, supplier selection and evaluation, strategic sourcing, negotiation strategies, logistics and inventory management. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least three years of full-time purchasing or supply management experience within the past five years. Alternatively, applicants may qualify if they have a bachelor’s degree in business or supply chain management plus two years of full-time purchasing or supply management experience within the past five years.

The cost for taking the exam is $495 for ISM members and $595 for non-members. Additionally, there are study materials available from ISM that can help prepare individuals for the exam. These materials range in price from $125-$300 depending on which package you choose.

Once an individual passes the exam they will receive their CPP designation which is valid for three years. After three years they must recertify by either retaking the exam or accumulating continuing education credits through approved activities such as attending conferences or completing online courses.

3. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIM program provides comprehensive training in production and inventory management, including planning, scheduling, sourcing, and managing production activities. It also covers topics such as supply chain management, quality control, cost accounting, and operations research.

The CPIM program consists of five modules: Basics of Supply Chain Management; Master Planning of Resources; Detailed Scheduling and Planning; Execution and Control of Operations; and Strategic Management of Resources. Each module includes an exam that must be passed in order to receive the certification. The exams are administered by APICS or its authorized testing centers.

It typically takes about six months to complete all five modules and pass the exams. However, some people may take longer depending on their experience level and study habits.

To get the CPIM certification, you must first become a member of APICS by signing up online or through their local chapter. Then you can purchase the CPIM Learning System which includes textbooks, practice tests, online courses, webinars, workshops, etc., or enroll in an instructor-led course at your local APICS chapter. After completing all five modules and passing the exams with a score of 70% or higher on each one you will receive your CPIM certificate from APICS.

The cost for the CPIM Learning System is $1125 USD for non-members ($925 USD for members). Instructor-led courses vary in price depending on location but usually range between $1000-$1500 USD per module.

4. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification program developed by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of supply chain management best practices. The CSCP certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of supply chain management.

The CSCP certification process consists of three parts: an online application, a comprehensive exam, and professional experience verification. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their background, education, and work experience. The comprehensive exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as global supply chain strategies, customer relationship management, and operations planning and control. Finally, applicants must provide proof of professional experience in the form of letters of recommendation from employers or other industry professionals.

It typically takes three to six months to complete the entire process from start to finish. However, this timeline can vary depending on how quickly applicants complete their application and exam requirements.

The cost for the CSCP certification program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ASCM. For members, the cost is $695 USD for the exam plus additional fees for materials such as study guides and practice exams. For non-members, the cost is $995 USD for the exam plus additional fees for materials such as study guides and practice exams.

5. 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. The CLTD program provides professionals with the knowledge to effectively manage global supply chains, from the point of origin to the customer’s door. It covers topics such as transportation management, inventory control, warehousing and distribution operations, international logistics, and reverse logistics.

The CLTD program consists of seven modules that cover the following topics:

1. Global Logistics Considerations

2. Transportation

3. Warehousing & Distribution

4. Inventory & Warehouse Management

5. International Logistics

6. Reverse Logistics & Sustainability

7. Supply Chain Network Design & Execution

It typically takes between six to nine months to complete all seven modules and prepare for the certification exam. To begin studying for the CLTD exam you must be an APICS member or purchase access to the online course materials through their website. The cost of membership or access to course materials varies depending on your location and type of membership you choose; however, it generally costs around $400-$500 USD for non-members in North America. After completing all seven modules and passing a proctored exam administered by APICS at a testing center near you, you will receive your CLTD designation from APICS which is valid for three years before needing renewal.

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 designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the principles and practices of logistics management. The CPL is an internationally recognized credential that provides evidence of the holder’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of logistics.

To become certified as a SOLE Certified Professional Logistician, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of experience in logistics or supply chain management. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by SOLE that covers topics such as inventory control, transportation management, purchasing and procurement, warehousing and distribution, and customer service.

The certification process typically takes between four to six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants will need to complete an application form, submit their resume and supporting documents, take the exam, and pay the applicable fees.

The cost for obtaining the CPL certification varies depending on where you live; however, it typically ranges from $400 - $600 USD.

7. ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the knowledge and skills required to be successful in the supply management profession.

The CPSM program consists of three levels: Foundation, Practitioner, and Executive. Each level requires passing an exam and meeting certain experience requirements. The Foundation exam covers topics such as procurement processes, supplier selection, contract negotiation, and risk management. The Practitioner exam focuses on advanced topics such as strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management. The Executive exam covers topics related to leadership development and organizational strategy.

It typically takes two years or more to complete all three levels of the CPSM program. However, some individuals may be able to complete it in less time depending on their prior experience and knowledge.

To get started with the CPSM program, you must first register with ISM and pay a registration fee of $225 USD. After registering, you must then purchase study materials from ISM or an approved third-party provider for each level of the program that you wish to pursue. The cost of these materials varies depending on which level you are pursuing but can range from $200-$500 USD per level.

Once you have registered with ISM and purchased your study materials, you can begin preparing for your exams by studying the material provided in your study guide or attending one of ISM’s online or in-person review courses. When you feel ready to take an exam, you can register for it through ISM’s website or contact them directly for assistance with scheduling an appointment at a testing center near you. Each exam costs $250 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking it at a testing center near you.

Upon successfully passing all three exams within five years of registering for the program, individuals will earn their CPSM certification from ISM which is valid for five years from date of issuance before requiring renewal.

8. American Purchasing Society's Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP-Purchasing)

The Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP-Purchasing) is a professional certification offered by the American Purchasing Society. This certification is designed to recognize purchasing professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in their field and are committed to continuing their professional development.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Have at least three years of full-time purchasing experience in a business or government setting
• Pass an exam administered by the American Purchasing Society
• Agree to abide by the American Purchasing Society's Code of Ethics
• Complete at least 10 hours of approved continuing education every year.

The CPP-Purchasing exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost of the exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of the American Purchasing Society, but typically ranges from $175-$250. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CPP-Purchasing certification and be eligible for membership in the American Purchasing Society.

9. Institute for Supply Management's Accredited Purchasing Practitioner Program

The Institute for Supply Management's (ISM) Accredited Purchasing Practitioner Program is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved the highest level of professional development in purchasing and supply management. The program is designed to provide purchasers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully manage their organization’s purchasing activities.

The program consists of three levels: Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP), Senior Certified Purchasing Professional (SCPP), and Master Certified Purchasing Professional (MCSP). Each level requires a certain number of credits and experience in specific areas such as contracts, negotiations, supply chain management, and procurement processes.

To become certified at any level, applicants must pass an exam administered by ISM. The exams are offered twice per year at various locations around the world. Candidates must also complete a series of online courses before taking the exam.

The cost for each level varies depending on whether or not you are an ISM member. For non-members, the cost ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 per level. For members, the cost ranges from $750 to $1,800 per level.

It typically takes between two and four years to complete all three levels of the program depending on how quickly you work through the courses and exams.

10. Association for Operations Management's Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM).

The Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in production and inventory management. The CPIM program consists of five courses which cover topics such as demand management, procurement and supplier planning, material requirements planning, capacity requirements planning, sales and operations planning, master scheduling, performance measurements, supplier relationships, quality control and continuous improvement.

It typically takes between six months to two years to complete the CPIM program depending on the individual's commitment level. To obtain the CPIM certification, individuals must pass all five exams within three years of starting the program.

To get started with the CPIM program, individuals must first become a member of APICS and pay a one-time fee of $195. They will then need to purchase study materials for each course which can range from $150-$400 per course depending on whether they choose digital or physical materials. Additionally, there are exam fees associated with each course that range from $220-$250 per exam.

Overall, it will cost approximately $1,500 - $2,000 to complete the entire CPIM program including membership fees and exam costs.

Do You Really Need a Material Controller Certificate?

Whether or not you need a material controller certificate really depends on your individual circumstances. If you are looking to pursue a career in material control, then having a certification is likely to be beneficial. It can demonstrate to employers that you have the knowledge and skill set necessary for the job, and it can also give you an advantage when competing in the job market.

On the other hand, if you are already working in the field of material control and have years of experience and knowledge, then it might not be necessary for you to obtain a certificate. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not obtaining a certification is worth the time and money investment. Consider your goals, current level of knowledge and experience, and what will best serve your career development before making your decision.

Related: Material Controller Resume Examples

FAQs About Material Controller Certifications

Q1: What is a Material Controller Certification?

A1: A Material Controller Certification is a credential that demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge, skills and abilities to effectively manage and control materials in a manufacturing or supply chain environment. The certification is usually awarded by a professional organization or educational institution.

Q2: What are the benefits of obtaining a Material Controller Certification?

A2: Benefits of obtaining a Material Controller Certification include improved job prospects, better pay, increased responsibility and recognition in the industry, as well as improved credibility when dealing with suppliers.

Q3: How do I become certified as a Material Controller?

A3: To become certified as a Material Controller, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the American Institute of Professional Materials Controllers (AIPMC). In addition to passing the exam, you may also need to complete additional coursework or training related to material management and control.

Q4: How long is a Material Controller Certification valid?

A4: Most certifications are valid for two years from the date of issue. After two years, you will need to renew your certification by taking an updated version of the exam or completing additional coursework or training related to material management and control.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for taking the certification exam?

A5: Generally speaking, no prerequisites are required for taking the certification exam. However, most organizations recommend that candidates have at least two years of experience in material management and control before attempting the exam.