Top 11 Shipping Associate Certifications

Certifications are important for a shipping associate in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the applicant has the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the position. Certifications also show that an individual is committed to learning, staying up-to-date on industry trends, and improving their professional qualifications. Employers can use certifications as a way to quickly identify qualified applicants who have the right skills and experience for their open positions. Additionally, certifications can provide assurance to employers that they are hiring someone who is knowledgeable in their field.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Shipping Associates and explains how they can help contribute to a successful career in the field.

What are Shipping Associate Certifications?

Shipping Associate Certification is a certification program designed to provide recognition for individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the principles of shipping and receiving. This certification is offered by many organizations, including the National Association of Shipping Professionals (NASP). The certification covers topics such as understanding the fundamentals of shipping, packing, labeling, and tracking shipments, selecting carriers, arranging pick-up and delivery services, negotiating rates with carriers and third-party logistics providers, managing freight bills and claims, understanding customs documentation requirements, utilizing safety protocols when handling hazardous materials, complying with federal regulations pertaining to transportation of goods domestically and internationally, developing cost-effective strategies for minimizing costs associated with shipping services.

Having Shipping Associate Certification can be beneficial in various ways. It provides recognition that an individual has achieved a level of professional excellence in the field of shipping. It also indicates to employers that they have an employee who is skilled in all aspects of shipping operations. With this knowledge and expertise comes greater confidence in their ability to manage their organization’s entire supply chain more effectively. Additionally, holding this certification may make them eligible for higher pay or more advanced positions within their company or organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a shipping associate certification, it's important to consider the course curriculum, instructor experience and quality of materials used. Make sure the program you choose offers comprehensive training in both theoretical and practical aspects of shipping operations so that you can be confident in your knowledge and skills as a shipping associate.

Related: What does a Shipping Associate do?

Top 11 Shipping Associate Certifications

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

1. Certified Shipping and Receiving Associate (CSRA)

Certified Shipping and Receiving Associate (CSRA) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Professional Logistics (NAPL). The certification program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become proficient in shipping, receiving, and inventory management.

The CSRA certification program consists of two parts: an online self-study course and a proctored exam. The online self-study course covers topics such as inventory control, packaging, labeling, freight handling, hazardous materials transportation, international shipping regulations, and more. The proctored exam tests the individual’s knowledge of the material covered in the online self-study course.

The cost for the CSRA certification program is $395 USD. This fee includes access to the online self-study course and one attempt at the proctored exam. It typically takes about 4-6 weeks to complete both parts of the certification program.

To get certified as a Certified Shipping and Receiving Associate (CSRA), you must first register for the certification program on NAPL’s website. Once registered, you will be able to access your online self-study course materials and schedule your proctored exam at an approved testing center near you. After successfully completing both parts of the certification program, you will receive your official CSRA certificate from NAPL.

2. Certified Logistics Professional (CLP)

Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the logistics field. The CLP certification is offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L).

The CLP certification process consists of an online exam, which covers topics such as operations management, supply chain management, transportation and distribution, warehousing, inventory control, customer service and more. The exam is administered by AST&L and can be taken at any testing center that offers the CLP exam.

It typically takes approximately four to six months to complete the entire certification process from start to finish. During this time period, applicants must successfully complete the online exam and submit all required documentation for review by AST&L. Once approved, applicants will receive their official CLP certificate.

The cost of obtaining a CLP certification depends on several factors such as whether or not you are a member of AST&L or if you choose to take advantage of any discounts offered. Generally speaking, however, it costs approximately $500-$600 USD for non-members and $400-$500 USD for members to obtain their CLP certification.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to help professionals in the supply chain industry develop the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their field. The CSCP certification is recognized as an international standard for supply chain excellence, and it demonstrates a mastery of end-to-end supply chain management principles.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: a self-study course, an online exam, and a professional development workshop. The self-study course takes approximately 120 hours to complete, and includes topics such as global supply chain management, customer relationship management, and demand planning. The online exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that must be completed within four hours. Finally, the professional development workshop provides an opportunity for participants to network with other professionals in the field and receive personalized feedback on their progress.

In order to obtain the CSCP certification, applicants must first register with ASCM and pay a fee of $995 USD. After completing all three parts of the program, applicants can then submit their application for review by ASCM’s Certification Board. Once approved, they will receive their certificate from ASCM and become certified as a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).

4. Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)

Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to become successful logistics technicians. The CLT certification is offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed for those who have a minimum of two years of logistics experience, or who have completed an AST&L-approved course in logistics.

The CLT program consists of three components: a written exam, an oral exam, and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation management, warehousing operations, and customer service. The oral exam focuses on the ability to communicate effectively with customers and other personnel in the logistics field. The practical exam evaluates the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

The cost of obtaining the CLT certification varies depending on which components are taken. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $1,000 USD for all three components combined.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all three components of the CLT program. However, this can vary depending on the individual’s experience level and availability for studying and taking exams.

5. Certified Warehouse Associate (CWA)

Certified Warehouse Associate (CWA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of warehouse professionals. This certification is offered by the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC). It is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of warehousing, from inventory management to safety protocols.

The CWA program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as inventory management, warehouse operations, safety protocols, and customer service. The course takes approximately 10-12 hours to complete. After completing the online course, candidates must pass a proctored exam in order to receive their CWA certification. The exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions and takes about 2 hours to complete.

To obtain the CWA certification, candidates must pay a fee of $250 USD. This fee includes the cost of the online course and the proctored exam. Once certified, individuals will receive a certificate from WERC that recognizes their knowledge and proficiency in warehousing operations.

The CWA certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed in order to remain valid. Renewal requires passing another proctored exam or taking additional continuing education courses approved by WERC.

6. Certified Inventory Manager (CIM)

Certified Inventory Manager (CIM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill and experience in inventory management. The CIM program is administered by the International Inventory Management Institute (IIMI).

The CIM program consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical assessment. The online exam covers topics such as inventory control, forecasting and planning, supply chain management, and warehouse operations. The practical assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in managing an inventory system.

It typically takes around six months to complete the CIM program. Candidates must first register for the program with IIMI and pay the registration fee. Once registered, they can begin studying for the online exam by accessing study materials provided by IIMI or other sources. After passing the online exam, candidates must then complete the practical assessment within six months of passing their online exam.

The cost of obtaining a Certified Inventory Manager certification varies depending on which country you are taking the exam in, but it generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

7. Certified Freight Handler (CFH)

Certified Freight Handler (CFH) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful freight handlers. This certification is offered by the National Cargo Security Council (NCSC). It is designed for individuals who are responsible for handling, loading, unloading, and securing cargo on trucks, railcars, ships, or aircrafts.

The CFH certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person field assessment. The online course is designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge required to be successful in the freight handling industry. It covers topics such as safety regulations, proper equipment usage, and accident prevention. The field assessment involves hands-on practice with actual cargo handling equipment and scenarios.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to complete the CFH certification program. To get certified, individuals must first register for the online course and pay a fee of $250 USD. After completing the online course, they must pass a final exam before proceeding to the field assessment portion of the program. During this portion of the program, students must demonstrate their ability to safely handle cargo under various conditions. Upon successful completion of both parts of the program, individuals receive their CFH certification card and are eligible for employment opportunities in freight handling roles.

8. Certified Cargo Security Professional (CCSP)

Certified Cargo Security Professional (CCSP) is a certification program provided by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of cargo security practices. The CCSP certification provides assurance that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure secure cargo operations.

The CCSP requires a minimum of 40 hours of study, which includes online modules, self-study materials, and a final exam. The course covers topics such as aviation security regulations, cargo security principles, risk assessment and management, physical security measures, supply chain security, and data protection.

To become certified as a CCSP, you must complete the IATA-approved course and pass the final exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $1,000 - $2,000 USD.

9. Certified Customs Brokerage Manager (CCBM)

Certified Customs Brokerage Manager (CCBM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise of experienced customs brokerage professionals. The CCBM certification is awarded by the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA).

The CCBM program is a rigorous, comprehensive training program that covers all aspects of customs brokerage operations, including import regulations, compliance requirements, documentation processes, and international trade procedures. It requires successful completion of both an online course and a two-day in-person workshop.

To become certified as a CCBM, applicants must have at least three years of experience in the field of customs brokerage and pass an exam administered by NCBFAA. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customs regulations, documentation requirements, international trade procedures, and risk management.

The cost to become certified as a CCBM varies depending on whether or not you are an NCBFAA member. For non-members, the cost is $1,495; for members it is $1,295. This fee includes access to the online course materials as well as registration for the two-day workshop.

Once you have completed the online course and passed the exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will be awarded your CCBM certification. This certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

10. Certified International Trade Specialist (CITS)

Certified International Trade Specialist (CITS) is a professional certification offered by the Canadian Institute of International Trade (CIIT). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in international trade. The CITS program provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their expertise in the field of international trade, and to gain recognition from employers, peers, and customers.

The CITS program consists of two parts: a written examination and an oral examination. The written exam covers topics such as international economics, global markets, customs regulations, export/import documentation, and logistics. The oral exam focuses on practical aspects of international trade such as problem-solving skills, negotiation techniques, and dispute resolution strategies.

In order to become certified as a Certified International Trade Specialist (CITS), applicants must first pass both the written and oral examinations. The written exam can be taken online or at designated testing centers across Canada. The oral exam is administered by CIIT representatives at approved locations throughout Canada.

The cost for the CITS program varies depending on the type of certification being sought; however, it typically ranges from $1,500 - $2,500 CAD plus applicable taxes.

11. Certified Transportation & Logistics Professional (CTLP).

Certified Transportation & Logistics Professional (CTLP) is a certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the transportation and logistics industry. The CTLP certification is designed to provide employers with assurance that their employees possess the necessary qualifications to perform their job responsibilities effectively.

To become a CTLP, one must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of professional experience in the transportation and logistics industry, as well as passing an examination administered by AST&L. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as supply chain management, operations management, customer service, warehousing, inventory control, international trade regulations, and more.

The process of becoming a CTLP typically takes about six months from start to finish. During this time period, applicants must complete an application form, submit required documentation such as transcripts or letters of recommendation from former employers, and pay any applicable fees. Once all requirements are met and approved by AST&L, applicants will be invited to take the exam.

The cost for obtaining the CTLP certification varies depending on factors such as geographic location and type of membership with AST&L. Generally speaking, however, it can range anywhere from $250 - $500 USD for non-members or $150 - $400 USD for members.

Do You Really Need a Shipping Associate Certificate?

No, you do not need a shipping associate certificate to be a successful shipping associate. While having the certificate may make it easier to get hired, many employers are more interested in experience and knowledge of the industry than credentials. A shipping associate needs to have an understanding of their job responsibilities and processes, which can be obtained through on-the-job training or self-study. Additionally, having strong communication skills and being detail-oriented are both essential qualities for any shipping associate role.

In conclusion, while having a shipping associate certificate is certainly beneficial, it is not required for success in the field. Employers may look favorably upon your credentials but will likely focus more on your experience and knowledge of the industry when making a hiring decision.

Related: Shipping Associate Resume Examples

FAQs About Shipping Associate Certifications

Q1. What is a Shipping Associate Certification?

A1. A Shipping Associate Certification is a professional certification program that provides training and skills development for those working in the transportation and logistics industry. It covers topics such as freight forwarding, customs clearance, and other aspects of shipping and logistics operations.

Q2. What are the benefits of getting certified as a Shipping Associate?

A2. The benefits of becoming certified as a Shipping Associate include increased job security, higher wages, enhanced career opportunities, improved customer service skills, and greater knowledge of shipping processes.

Q3. How long does it take to become certified as a Shipping Associate?

A3. The length of time it takes to become certified as a Shipping Associate varies depending on the certifying organization but typically ranges between 6-12 months.

Q4. What type of jobs can I get with a Shipping Associate Certification?

A4. With a Shipping Associate Certification you may be qualified for positions such as freight forwarder, customs broker or specialist, international trade compliance officer, export/import manager, or warehouse manager/supervisor among many others in the field of transportation and logistics.

Q5. Is there an exam required to become certified as a Shipping Associate?

A5. Yes, most certifying organizations require applicants to pass an exam in order to become certified as a Shipping Associate.