Top 10 Packaging Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for a packaging specialist in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has an in-depth knowledge of the standards and regulations related to packaging. Certifications also show that the individual has taken the time to learn about packaging processes, materials, and technologies, as well as how to apply them in a safe and effective manner. In addition, certifications provide assurance that a packaging specialist is capable of meeting customer requirements as well as industry standards. Ultimately, certifications can help make an individual stand out from other job candidates and increase their chances of being hired.

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

What are Packaging Specialist Certifications?

Packaging specialist certification is a professional certification that provides an individual with the knowledge and skills to understand, analyze, and develop packaging solutions for a variety of industries. This certification is offered by several organizations including the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) and the Institute of Packaging Technology (IPT).

This certification helps individuals in developing their understanding of the entire packaging process from design to production. It also provides them with an understanding of materials used in various types of packaging, such as paperboard, plastic, glass, metal, corrugated cardboard and more. Additionally, it helps individuals understand the environmental impact of packaging and how to reduce it.

The certification also helps individuals understand how to develop cost-effective solutions for different types of products and gain a better understanding of global regulatory requirements related to packaging. It also helps individuals learn how to manage a team and develop effective communication between stakeholders throughout the supply chain. By obtaining this certification, individuals can demonstrate their expertise in all aspects related to packaging solutions.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a packaging specialist certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications that are necessary for the program. Some certifications may require specific educational backgrounds or on-the-job experience in order to be eligible. Additionally, ensure that you understand the cost associated with obtaining the certification and any other fees related to maintaining it.

Related: What does a Packaging Specialist do?

Top 10 Packaging Specialist Certifications

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

1. Certified Packaging Professional (CPP)

Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) is a certification program offered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill in the packaging industry. The CPP credential demonstrates that an individual has achieved a level of expertise in the field of packaging, including topics such as package design, material selection, testing, sustainability, and more.

It typically takes between 12-18 months to complete the requirements for the CPP certification. This includes completing an online course and passing an exam administered by IoPP. The cost for taking the course and exam varies depending on your membership status with IoPP; however, it is usually around $1,000. Additionally, there are some additional costs associated with maintaining your CPP certification once you have earned it.

To get started on your journey to becoming a Certified Packaging Professional (CPP), you must first become a member of IoPP. Once you are a member, you can enroll in their online course which will cover all of the topics necessary for passing the exam. After completing the coursework and passing the exam, you will receive your official CPP certification from IoPP.

2. Certified Packaging Engineer (CPE)

Certified Packaging Engineer (CPE) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of packaging engineering. The certification program is administered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP).

To become a Certified Packaging Engineer, applicants must meet certain requirements such as having at least five years of experience in the packaging industry, completing an IoPP-approved course and passing a comprehensive exam. Those who are successful will receive the CPE designation.

The process to become a Certified Packaging Engineer can take up to two years depending on an individual's prior experience and educational background. Applicants must first complete an IoPP-approved course, which typically takes between six months and one year to complete. After successfully completing the course, applicants must then pass a comprehensive exam in order to be awarded their CPE designation.

The cost for the Certified Packaging Engineer program varies depending on the courses taken and other materials purchased. Generally, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 for all associated fees including application fees, course fees, exam fees and study materials.

3. Certified Packaging Technologist (CPT)

Certified Packaging Technologist (CPT) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of expertise in packaging technology. The CPT credential is intended to validate an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field, and to provide employers with assurance that the individual has met certain standards of excellence.

In order to obtain the CPT certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by IoPP. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as materials selection, package design, testing methods, sustainability, and regulations. The exam typically takes two hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CPT exam is $495 for IoPP members and $595 for non-members. There are no prerequisites or educational requirements necessary to take the exam; however, it is recommended that applicants have at least three years of professional experience in packaging technology before attempting it.

Once an applicant successfully passes the CPT examination they will receive their official certificate from IoPP along with a digital badge that can be displayed on their website or other online profiles. They will also be listed in the IoPP Registry of Certified Packaging Professionals, which serves as a resource for employers seeking qualified professionals in this field.

4. Certified Sustainable Packaging Professional (CSPP)

Certified Sustainable Packaging Professional (CSPP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in sustainable packaging. The CSPP certification is awarded by the Sustainable Packaging Coalition, an organization dedicated to promoting sustainability in packaging.

The CSPP certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as sustainability principles, materials and processes, waste management, and lifecycle analysis. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of the principles of sustainable packaging through a portfolio review.

The CSPP certification process typically takes about 3-4 months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must fill out an application form and submit it along with their resume and portfolio materials. After submitting the application materials, applicants will be invited to take the CSPP exam. Once they pass the exam, they will receive their certificate of completion.

The cost to become certified as a CSPP is $500 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. This fee covers the cost of the exam and all other associated costs with becoming certified as a CSPP.

5. Certified Supply Chain Professional in Packaging (CSCP-P)

The Certified Supply Chain Professional in Packaging (CSCP-P) is a professional certification for individuals who demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the packaging supply chain. This certification is offered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP), which is an international non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the packaging industry.

The CSCP-P program consists of three parts: an online course, an exam, and a portfolio review. The online course covers topics such as supply chain management, packaging design, materials selection, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. The exam tests your knowledge of these topics and requires a passing score of 70%. Finally, the portfolio review assesses your experience in the field and requires you to submit documentation demonstrating your expertise.

The entire process takes approximately six months to complete. Once you have successfully completed all three parts of the program, you will be awarded the CSCP-P designation. This certification is valid for five years before it must be renewed.

The cost of obtaining the CSCP-P designation varies depending on where you take the course. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500-$2,000 USD for the entire program.

6. Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt in Packaging (CLSSGB-P)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt in Packaging (CLSSGB-P) is a certification program designed to help professionals in the packaging industry improve their skills and knowledge of Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is offered by the International Association for Packaging Professionals (IAP). The program focuses on teaching participants how to use Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve customer satisfaction.

The CLSSGB-P certification consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as process mapping, value stream analysis, root cause analysis, and design of experiments. It takes approximately 40 hours to complete the online course.

The exam is administered by IAP and consists of multiple-choice questions covering the topics discussed in the online course. To pass the exam, participants must score at least 70%.

The cost of the CLSSGB-P certification depends on whether you are an IAP member or not. For non-members, it costs $395 USD; for members, it costs $295 USD.

In conclusion, Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt in Packaging (CLSSGB-P) is a certification program designed to help packaging professionals gain skills and knowledge of Lean Six Sigma methodology. It takes approximately 40 hours to complete the online course and there is an exam that must be passed with a score of at least 70%. The cost for non-members is $395 USD; for members it costs $295 USD.

7. Quality Assurance Professional in Packaging (QAPP)

Quality Assurance Professional in Packaging (QAPP) is a certification program offered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP). It is designed to recognize and promote the professional growth of individuals in the packaging industry. The QAPP program is based on a comprehensive set of core competencies and professional standards that are necessary for successful performance in the field of packaging.

The QAPP certification process involves a series of tests and assessments that measure an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities related to packaging. The assessment includes written exams, practical demonstrations, case studies, and interviews. It typically takes about eight weeks to complete the entire process from start to finish.

To become certified as a Quality Assurance Professional in Packaging (QAPP), you must first submit an application and fee to IoPP. The fee varies depending on your level of experience and education. After your application has been reviewed, you will be invited to take the assessment tests at one of IoPP's testing centers or online through their website. Once you have passed all required tests, you will receive your QAPP certification.

The cost for obtaining your QAPP certification will depend on your level of experience and education as well as any additional fees associated with taking the assessment tests or attending training courses if applicable. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-1000 USD for the entire process from start to finish.

8. International Safe Transit Association Certification Program

The International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) Certification Program is a voluntary, third-party certification program that evaluates the performance of packaging designs for safe transit of products. The program provides an objective evaluation of the performance of packaging systems and helps to ensure that products are delivered in satisfactory condition.

It takes approximately four weeks to complete the ISTA Certification Program. To get certified, companies must submit their packaging designs to ISTA for review and testing. The tests are conducted in ISTA's laboratory and include simulated shipping conditions such as vibration, shock, pressure, temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors. Once the tests have been completed successfully, the company will receive its ISTA certification.

The cost of the ISTA Certification Program varies depending on the number of packages tested and the complexity of testing required. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars per package design tested.

9. Global Food Safety Initiative Certification Program

The Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Certification Program is an independent, third-party certification program that sets global standards for food safety and quality. It is based on the principles of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and other internationally recognized standards. The GFSI Certification Program was developed to ensure that food products are safe, consistent, and of high quality throughout the entire supply chain.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to get GFSI certification depending on the size of the business and its complexity. To get GFSI certification, businesses must first identify a certification body that is accredited by GFSI. Then they must develop a food safety system that meets or exceeds the requirements set forth by GFSI. This includes implementing GMPs, HACCP plans, and other food safety measures. Finally, businesses must submit their food safety system to the certification body for review and approval.

The cost of getting GFSI certification varies depending on the size of the business and its complexity but can range from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

10. Institute of Packaging Professionals Certification Program

The Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) Certification Program is a comprehensive program that provides certification for professionals in the packaging industry. It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals working in the packaging field. The program consists of three levels: Certified Packaging Professional (CPP), Certified Packaging Technologist (CPT), and Certified Packaging Executive (CPE).

To become a CPP, you must have at least two years of experience in the packaging industry or an equivalent combination of education and experience. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as packaging materials, design principles, manufacturing processes, regulatory requirements, and sustainability practices. The exam requires approximately four hours to complete and can be taken online or at an IoPP testing center. The cost for the CPP exam is $295 USD.

To become a CPT, you must have at least five years of experience in the packaging industry or an equivalent combination of education and experience. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as advanced packaging materials, design principles, manufacturing processes, regulatory requirements, and sustainability practices. The exam requires approximately six hours to complete and can be taken online or at an IoPP testing center. The cost for the CPT exam is $395 USD.

Finally, to become a CPE you must have at least seven years of experience in the packaging industry or an equivalent combination of education and experience. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as strategic planning for packaging operations, financial management for packaging operations, organizational leadership for packaging operations, regulatory compliance for packaging operations, and sustainability practices for packaging operations. The exam requires approximately eight hours to complete and can be taken online or at an IoPP testing center. The cost for the CPE exam is $495 USD.

Overall it takes about 1-2 months from start to finish to get your certification depending on how quickly you are able to study for your exams and when they are available in your area/online.

Do You Really Need a Packaging Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and objectives. A packaging specialist certificate can provide a great foundation for those looking to develop their knowledge and skills in the field of packaging design and production. It can also be useful for those seeking to gain employment in the industry, as many employers prefer to hire candidates with a recognized certification.

The certificate offers an in-depth look into the various aspects of packaging, such as materials selection, design principles, processes and equipment. It covers topics such as sustainability, safety regulations and industry trends. In addition, it provides hands-on experience in designing, producing and testing packages. This gives students the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a packaging specialist certificate is up to you. If you are interested in pursuing a career in the field or would like to demonstrate your expertise through professional credentials, then it might be worth considering obtaining one. However, if you are already working in the industry or just want to expand your knowledge base without committing to a full-fledged degree program then there are other options available that may be more suitable for you.

Related: Packaging Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Packaging Specialist Certifications

1. What is a Packaging Specialist Certification?

Answer: A Packaging Specialist Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in packaging engineering, design, and materials selection. It is typically offered by professional organizations such as the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP).

2. What are the benefits of having a Packaging Specialist Certification?

Answer: Having a Packaging Specialist Certification can help you stand out from other job applicants and provide assurance to potential employers that you have the necessary skills to work in the field of packaging engineering. It can also be beneficial for career advancement opportunities, as well as providing access to exclusive resources and networking events.

3. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of relevant experience in packaging engineering or design. You must then pass an exam administered by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of packaging principles and practices.

4. How much does it cost to get certified?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on whether you are already an IoPP member or not. For non-members, the fee typically ranges between $350-$400 USD, while members may be eligible for discounted rates or even free certification exams depending on their membership level.

5. How long does my certification last?

Answer: Once you have been certified by IoPP, your certification will remain valid for three years from the date it was issued. After this period has expired, you will need to renew your certification by taking a recertification exam every three years in order to maintain your credentials.