Top 10 Packaging Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a packaging manager in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role. Certified packaging managers have a higher level of professionalism and credibility, which can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Additionally, certifications provide employers with assurance that the candidate is qualified to perform the duties associated with the position. They also show employers that the individual is committed to their career and has taken the initiative to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. Ultimately, certifications are an investment in one’s career and can open up more opportunities for advancement within a company or organization.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Packaging Managers and explain how they can help to advance a packaging manager's career.

What are Packaging Manager Certifications?

Packaging Manager Certification is a professional accreditation program designed to recognize and promote the expertise of packaging professionals. It provides individuals with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of packaging management. The certification is awarded by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP), a leading professional organization for packaging professionals.

The certification helps packaging professionals to stand out from the crowd and increase their chances of getting hired or promoted in the industry. It is also beneficial for employers as it ensures that those who are certified have been rigorously tested and can be trusted to handle complex tasks related to managing packaging operations. Additionally, having a certified packaging manager on staff can help a business save money, due to better efficiency in managing resources such as materials, personnel, and equipment.

The certification process involves taking an examination that covers topics such as sustainability, food safety, regulatory compliance, cost optimization, supply chain management, product development, brand protection strategies, and design principles. Those who pass the exam will receive their IoPP Certified Packaging Manager (CPM) designation. This designation is valid for three years before needing renewal. Renewal requires completion of continuing education credits which can be obtained through attending conferences or seminars related to packaging management practices and technologies.

Overall, Packaging Manager Certification provides valuable recognition for those seeking a career in the industry by helping them demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in this field. It also serves as an important asset for businesses looking to invest in experienced professionals who can bring value to their operations through improved efficiency and cost savings.

Pro Tip: To ensure that you are adequately prepared for packaging manager certification, it is important to review the exam specifications and make sure that you have a thorough understanding of the topics covered. Additionally, it is beneficial to take practice tests in order to gain an understanding of the types of questions you may be asked on the actual exam.

Related: What does a Packaging Manager do?

Top 10 Packaging Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Packaging Managers today.

1. Certified Packaging Professional (CPP)

Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in packaging. The CPP credential is recognized globally as the standard for packaging professionals.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers a wide range of topics related to packaging, including design, materials selection, sustainability, regulations, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes about two hours to complete.

Applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements before taking the exam. These include having at least three years of full-time work experience in packaging or related fields, or having completed an IoPP-approved educational program in packaging.

The cost to take the CPP exam is $450 USD for members of IoPP and $550 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, there is an annual fee of $150 USD to maintain the certification status.

2. Certified Packaging Technologist (CPT)

Certified Packaging Technologist (CPT) is a certification program offered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP). The CPT certification is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of packaging professionals. It is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of packaging technology, including design, materials selection, testing, sustainability and regulatory compliance.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPT certification process. To become certified as a CPT, individuals must first complete an online application and submit it to IoPP for review. Once accepted into the program, individuals must successfully pass an examination that tests their knowledge of packaging technology principles and practices.

The cost to become a Certified Packaging Technologist varies depending on whether you are an IoPP member or non-member. For IoPP members, the cost is $500 USD; for non-members it is $750 USD. This fee includes access to all study materials needed for the exam as well as one free retake if necessary.

3. Global Packaging Professional (GPP)

Global Packaging Professional (GPP) is a certification program created by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate knowledge and experience in the field of packaging. The GPP certification is intended to help packaging professionals differentiate themselves from their peers, enhance their career opportunities, and demonstrate their commitment to professional development.

The GPP program consists of two components: an online assessment and an in-person examination. The online assessment requires applicants to answer multiple-choice questions about packaging principles, practices, and technologies. The exam covers topics such as materials selection, package design, sustainability, regulatory compliance, cost analysis, and more.

The in-person examination consists of a written test and an oral presentation. During the written test, applicants must answer questions related to packaging principles and practices. During the oral presentation portion of the exam, applicants will present a case study that demonstrates their knowledge of packaging principles and practices.

To become certified as a Global Packaging Professional (GPP), individuals must pass both the online assessment and in-person examination with a score of at least 70%. It typically takes 6-12 months for individuals to complete all requirements for certification.

The cost for obtaining GPP certification varies depending on where you live; however, it typically costs around $500-$1000 USD for the application fee plus any associated travel expenses for attending the in-person examination.

4. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt for Packaging Professionals

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt for Packaging Professionals is a certification program designed to help packaging professionals develop the skills necessary to identify and eliminate waste in their processes. It is a comprehensive program that combines Lean Six Sigma principles with packaging industry-specific knowledge and best practices.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt for Packaging Professionals certification typically takes between 4 and 6 months to complete. This includes completing online coursework, attending virtual or in-person workshops, and passing an exam at the end of the program.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt for Packaging Professionals, you must first meet certain prerequisites such as having prior experience in the packaging industry. Once these requirements are met, you can apply for the certification through an accredited training provider.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt for Packaging Professionals certification varies depending on the training provider and any additional materials you may need to purchase. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000-$2,500 USD.

5. Certified Packaging Engineer (CPE)

Certified Packaging Engineer (CPE) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in packaging engineering. The CPE credential is awarded to those who have completed a rigorous program that includes passing an exam and meeting the IoPP’s standards for education, experience, and professional ethics.

The CPE program typically takes about two years to complete. During this time, applicants are required to complete coursework in packaging science, materials selection, design principles, and industry regulations. They must also demonstrate proficiency in their chosen field by completing a project or internship. Once these requirements are met, applicants can take the CPE exam which consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as package design, materials selection, quality assurance, and sustainability.

To become certified as a CPE, applicants must pay an application fee of $295 USD plus any applicable taxes. After successfully passing the exam, they will be required to pay an annual renewal fee of $125 USD plus applicable taxes in order to maintain their certification status.

Overall, becoming a Certified Packaging Engineer requires dedication and commitment but can open up many opportunities for career advancement within the packaging industry.

6. Certified Sustainable Packaging Professional (CSPP)

Certified Sustainable Packaging Professional (CSPP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in sustainable packaging. The CSPP certification is awarded by the Sustainable Packaging Coalition, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing sustainability in packaging.

The CSPP program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as sustainability principles, life cycle assessment, material selection, design for environment, and more. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the course.

To become certified, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam consists of 80 multiple choice questions and takes two hours to complete.

The cost for the CSPP certification is $495 USD which includes the course materials and access to the online exam.

7. Certified Quality Manager for Packaging Professionals (CQMPP)

Certified Quality Manager for Packaging Professionals (CQMPP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of expertise in the field of packaging. The certification is administered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP), an organization that promotes and educates professionals in the packaging industry.

The CQMPP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of quality management principles, processes, and techniques related to packaging. They must also demonstrate their ability to apply these principles effectively in a packaging environment. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality assurance, process control, risk management, and problem solving.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CQMPP program from start to finish. Applicants must first submit an application form and pay a fee before taking the exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their certificate of completion.

The cost for the CQMPP program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 USD for all materials and fees associated with taking the exam.

8. Certified Supply Chain Logistics and Packaging Management Professional (CSCLPMP)

Certified Supply Chain Logistics and Packaging Management Professional (CSCLPMP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and techniques of supply chain logistics and packaging management. The program focuses on developing core competencies in areas such as: supply chain management, inventory control, warehousing & distribution, transportation & logistics, materials handling & storage, packaging design & engineering, quality assurance & control.

The CSCLPMP certification requires applicants to complete an online application form and submit relevant documents such as proof of education or work experience. Once approved for the program, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management principles, inventory control methods and techniques, warehouse operations and distribution strategies. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions with a two hour time limit.

It typically takes three to six months to complete the certification process depending on the individual's progress and availability.

The cost of the CSCLPMP certification varies depending on the country where it is being taken but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

9. American Society of Quality – ASQ – Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence in Packaging

The American Society of Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence in Packaging is a certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of quality management and organizational excellence in packaging. This certification is designed to help professionals in the packaging industry improve their knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to better serve their customers and employers.

To become certified as an ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence in Packaging, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include: having at least three years of experience in the field of quality management or organizational excellence; having a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university; and passing an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and organizational excellence.

The cost for taking the exam is $500 USD. Applicants must also pay an application fee of $50 USD when submitting their application to take the exam. Once all fees are paid, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. It typically takes four to six weeks to complete the registration process before taking the exam.

Once applicants have passed the exam, they will be awarded with their ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence in Packaging certificate. This certificate is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by retaking the exam or completing other approved activities such as attending seminars or workshops related to quality management or organizational excellence.

10. International Safe Transit Association – ISTA – Certified Package Design Professional

The International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) Certified Package Design Professional (CPDP) is a certification program that recognizes professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the design and testing of packaging systems. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in designing, testing, and evaluating packaging systems for safe transit.

To become an ISTA CPDP certified professional, individuals must first complete an approved course of study on package design and testing. Upon completion of the course, applicants must pass a written exam to demonstrate their understanding of the material covered in the course. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to package design principles and best practices. Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants are eligible for certification as an ISTA CPDP.

The cost for taking the ISTA CPDP exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. The exam typically takes between two to three hours to complete.

In addition to passing the written exam, applicants must also submit evidence of their professional experience in package design and testing. This includes submitting resumes or other documents that demonstrate their experience with package design projects or other related activities such as product development or quality assurance/control.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants can apply for certification through ISTA’s online application system. Once approved by ISTA, certified professionals will receive a certificate and be listed in ISTA’s online directory of certified professionals.

Do You Really Need a Packaging Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and goals. If you are looking to work in the packaging industry, then having a Packaging Manager Certificate can be beneficial in helping you stand out from other applicants and demonstrating your knowledge of the field. It can also give you an edge when negotiating salary or job offers.

However, if you have already achieved success in the packaging industry without a certificate, it may not be necessary for you to obtain one. Additionally, if you are just starting out in the field or simply want to gain more knowledge about packaging, there are many other ways to do so such as attending seminars and workshops or taking online classes. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not obtaining a Packaging Manager Certificate will help further your career.

Related: Packaging Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Packaging Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Packaging Manager Certification?

A1. A Packaging Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the field of packaging management. It typically covers topics such as package design, package testing, shipping and receiving, inventory control, packaging standards and regulations, and cost analysis.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Packaging Manager?

A2. In order to become certified as a Packaging Manager, you must pass an exam administered by the International Packaging Professionals Alliance (IPPA). This exam tests your knowledge of packaging principles, industry standards and regulations, and best practices in packaging operations.

Q3. How long does it take to complete the IPPA certification exam?

A3. The IPPA certification exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

Q4. Are there any prerequisites for taking the IPPA certification exam?

A4. Yes, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the field of packaging operations or related industries before they are eligible to take the IPPA certification exam.

Q5. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Packaging Manager?

A5. Becoming certified as a Packaging Manager can help demonstrate your expertise in this field to employers and clients alike and can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries within the industry. Additionally, it serves as proof of continued education in this area which can be beneficial when applying for promotions or other career advancements within existing organizations or when transitioning into new roles outside of your current organization