Top 11 Supply Chain & Logistics Certifications

Certifications for supply chain & logistics are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience to potential employers. Companies want to ensure that their employees are knowledgeable and capable of managing the complexities of supply chain & logistics operations. Certifications also show a commitment from employees to stay up-to-date with industry trends, technologies, and best practices. Finally, certifications can help open doors for career advancement since employers may be more likely to consider candidates who have earned such credentials.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Supply Chain & Logistics and explain how they can help individuals advance their career in the field.

What are Supply Chain & Logistics Certifications?

Supply chain & logistics certification is a formal recognition of the knowledge, skills and abilities an individual has acquired in the field of supply chain and logistics management. The certification is designed to ensure that an individual has developed proficiency in the areas necessary for success in this field. It is typically awarded after passing an examination or completing a course of study.

The primary benefit of obtaining supply chain & logistics certification is that it provides employers with assurance that their employees have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage supply chain and logistics operations. Additionally, having a formal certification can help job seekers stand out from other applicants as they demonstrate their commitment to professional development. Furthermore, certified professionals may be eligible for higher salaries than those without any credentials in this field due to the increased responsibilities associated with such certifications.

In addition to providing tangible benefits for individuals, supply chain & logistics certifications can also provide organizations with increased efficiency and improved customer service. For example, certified professionals are more likely to have a better understanding of complex processes related to procurement, inventory management and transportation which can lead to improved decision making and cost savings for businesses. Moreover, certified professionals are better equipped to identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them which can result in reduced delays and improved customer satisfaction levels.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the various supply chain & logistics certifications available to you, and find one that best suits your needs. Consider selecting a certification program that is accredited by an industry-recognized organization, as this will ensure that your certification is of the highest quality. Additionally, make sure to look for a certification program that offers continuing education opportunities and resources so you can stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends.

Related: What does a Supply Chain & Logistics do?

Top 11 Supply Chain & Logistics Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Supply Chain & Logisticss today.

1. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). The CSCP program provides professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage global supply chains. It covers topics such as inventory management, production planning, logistics, customer service, and more.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online learning system, an exam preparation course, and a final exam. The online learning system includes over 30 hours of self-paced instruction covering the core concepts of supply chain management. The exam preparation course is an in-person workshop that provides additional guidance on how to prepare for the final exam. The final exam is a multiple-choice test that assesses a candidate’s knowledge of supply chain management principles and practices.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CSCP program. Candidates must first complete the online learning system before taking the exam preparation course. After completing both components, candidates can then register for and take the final exam.

The cost of the CSCP program varies based on whether you are an ASCM member or non-member. For ASCM members, it costs $1,295 USD; for non-members it costs $1,495 USD. This fee includes access to all components of the program including the online learning system, exam preparation course, and final exam.

2. Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLTD credential is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in logistics, transportation and distribution. It is designed for individuals who are involved in the management of supply chain logistics operations, including those responsible for planning, implementing, controlling and evaluating the flow of goods and services.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CLTD program. To get certified, you must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as inventory management, global supply chain strategies, transportation modes and pricing strategies. After passing the exam, you must complete a series of courses covering topics such as quality assurance, customer service and financial analysis. You must also submit evidence of your professional experience or education related to logistics, transportation or distribution.

The cost to become certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution varies depending on how you choose to pursue it. The exam fee alone costs $395 USD plus applicable taxes. Additional fees may apply for course materials or other requirements necessary to complete the program.

3. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the essential skills of supply chain management. The CSCP certification is the only end-to-end supply chain certification that covers the entire global supply chain from strategy to implementation. It provides professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage operations across their organization’s entire supply chain, including sourcing, procurement, conversion, and logistics.

The CSCP program consists of three main components: an online learning system, an examination, and a recertification process. The online learning system includes course materials such as videos, articles, and case studies that cover topics such as supply chain fundamentals, inventory management, customer service strategies, global logistics networks, and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

To become certified as a CSCP requires passing the exam with a score of at least 70%. To maintain certification status requires completing 45 continuing education credits every three years.

The cost for the CSCP program varies depending on whether you choose to take the self-study or instructor-led course option. Self-study courses typically cost between $1,200-$1,500 USD while instructor-led courses range from $2,000-$3,000 USD.

4. International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certified Professional Logistician (CPL)

The International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) is a professional certification program that recognizes and rewards individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, experience, and skill in the field of logistics. The CPL certification is designed to ensure that those who hold it are qualified for positions in the logistics industry.

To obtain the CPL certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by SOLE. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation management, warehousing and distribution, purchasing and procurement, and quality assurance. Applicants must have at least five years of experience in the logistics field to qualify for the exam.

The cost of taking the CPL exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400 to $500 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as proctoring fees or travel expenses if you take the exam at a testing center outside your area.

Once an applicant passes the exam they will receive their CPL certificate which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires passing a recertification examination every three years or accumulating continuing education credits through activities such as attending conferences or completing online courses.

5. Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Certificate in Logistics and Transport

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Certificate in Logistics and Transport is a professional qualification that provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to work in the logistics and transport industry. It is designed for those who are already working in the sector or those who are looking to develop their career within it.

The CILT Certificate takes approximately 12 months to complete, depending on the individual's study speed. The course consists of four modules which cover topics such as supply chain management, transport operations, customer service, and legal aspects of logistics and transport.

In order to get the CILT Certificate, individuals must first register with CILT as a student member. They will then be able to access the online learning materials which include video lectures, case studies, quizzes, and assessments. Once they have completed all four modules they will be eligible to sit the final exam which is held twice a year at designated exam centres.

The cost of the CILT Certificate varies depending on whether you are an existing member or not. For non-members it costs £1125 plus VAT for UK residents or €1350 plus VAT for EU residents; for existing members it costs £800 plus VAT for UK residents or €950 plus VAT for EU residents.

6. American Society of Transportation & Logistics (AST&L) Certified Professional Logistician (CPL)

The American Society of Transportation & Logistics (AST&L) Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and experience of logistics professionals. The CPL designation is a mark of distinction, demonstrating to employers and colleagues that an individual has achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of logistics.

To become certified as a CPL, individuals must have at least five years' experience in logistics or supply chain management, hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and pass an examination administered by AST&L. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as inventory control, transportation planning and management, warehousing operations, customer service management, and materials handling.

It typically takes six to eight weeks to complete the process of becoming certified as a CPL. After submitting the application form and paying the fee, applicants will receive their study materials from AST&L. Once they have studied for the exam, they can schedule their test date with AST&L.

The cost for becoming certified as a CPL is $495 for AST&L members and $595 for non-members. This includes the application fee, study materials, and exam fee.

7. Institute for Supply Management (ISM) CPSM Certification

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) certification is an internationally recognized credential that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of supply management. It is awarded to those who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage the procurement and supply chain process.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of three years of professional experience in supply management or related fields. Applicants must also pass a three-part examination that covers topics such as strategic sourcing, contract law, supplier relationship management, and logistics. The exam is offered twice a year at various locations around the world.

The certification process typically takes six to nine months to complete. During this time, applicants are expected to prepare for the exam by studying the CPSM Body of Knowledge (BOK), attending ISM training events or workshops, and taking practice exams.

The cost of obtaining CPSM certification varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or non-member. For members, it costs $795 for the full package which includes study materials and two attempts at taking the exam; for non-members it costs $1,295 for the same package.

8. Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) SCPro™ Certification

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) SCPro™ Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of supply chain management. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their commitment to the profession and increase their value to employers.

The certification process takes approximately six months, depending on the individual's experience and background. The process includes an online application, an exam, and a series of interviews with CSCMP members. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions about supply chain management topics such as logistics, procurement, inventory management, customer service, transportation, and more.

To get certified, candidates must meet certain criteria including having at least five years of experience in supply chain management or related fields; being able to demonstrate knowledge of current trends and best practices in the field; and passing the SCPro™ Exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost for the SCPro™ Certification is $1,495 for CSCMP members or $1,795 for non-members. This fee covers the cost of the exam as well as access to study materials and other resources that can help prepare for it.

9. Association for Operations Management (APICS) CPIM Certification

The Association for Operations Management (APICS) CPIM Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in operations management. It is the most widely recognized and respected certification available in the field of operations management.

The CPIM Certification is divided into two parts: Part 1 and Part 2. To obtain the CPIM designation, candidates must pass both exams. The Part 1 exam covers topics such as supply chain management, production activity control, master scheduling, and materials requirements planning. The Part 2 exam focuses on strategic management of resources, enterprise resource planning, sales and operations planning, and performance measurements.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the certification process depending on how quickly you can study for and pass the exams.

To get started with the APICS CPIM Certification process, you will need to register with APICS and create an account. Once registered, you will have access to study materials such as textbooks and online courses that will help you prepare for the exams. You can also take practice tests to assess your readiness for taking the actual exams.

The cost of obtaining the APICS CPIM Certification varies depending on which study materials you choose to use. Typically it costs around $1,000-$1,500 USD for all of the necessary study materials plus registration fees for both exams ($495 each).

10. Global Supply Chain Council’s GSCP Certification

The Global Supply Chain Council’s (GSCP) Certified Professional Program is a globally recognized certification program designed to recognize the achievements of professionals in the supply chain management field. The certification is based on a comprehensive set of competencies, which are required for successful performance in the supply chain profession.

It takes approximately six months to complete the GSCP certification process. During this time, applicants must complete a portfolio of coursework and assessments that demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as supply chain planning, logistics, operations, and customer service. Once all requirements have been met, applicants can take an online exam to receive their certification.

To get certified by GSCP, individuals must first become a member of the organization by paying an annual fee. After becoming a member, they can then apply for the certification program and submit their application materials. Applicants must also pay a one-time fee for the exam and any associated materials or services needed to complete it.

The cost of becoming GSCP certified varies depending on which level of membership you choose and whether you need additional materials or services for your exam preparation. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $400-$1,200 USD depending on your specific needs.

11. International Warehouse Logistics Association’s IWLA Certified Warehouse Professional

The International Warehouse Logistics Association’s (IWLA) Certified Warehouse Professional (CWP) program is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage warehouse operations. The CWP credential is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in warehouse management and logistics, including inventory control, safety, customer service, and other related topics.

The CWP program consists of two parts: an online course and an examination. The online course covers topics such as warehouse layout and design, inventory control systems, safety procedures, customer service best practices, and more. The course takes approximately 15-20 hours to complete depending on the individual's learning style. After completing the course, candidates must pass a proctored exam in order to receive their CWP certification.

To become certified as a IWLA Certified Warehouse Professional (CWP), you must first register for the program through the IWLA website. Registration fees are $450 USD for members of the IWLA or $550 USD for non-members. Once registered, you will be provided with access to the online course materials which you can complete at your own pace within 90 days of registration. After successfully completing the online course and passing the proctored exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your CWP certification from IWLA.

Do You Really Need a Supply Chain & Logistics Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals and objectives. A supply chain & logistics certificate can be beneficial for those looking to gain a better understanding of the complexities associated with managing supply chain operations, as well as those looking to pursue a career in this field. Those who already possess some knowledge of the industry may find that having a formal certification will help them stand out among potential employers. Additionally, a certificate may open up opportunities for further learning and professional development.

For someone just starting out in the world of supply chain management, it may be beneficial to complete a course or program that offers an introduction to the principles and processes associated with managing supply chains. This could provide valuable insight into the basics of supply chain management, such as inventory control, procurement strategies, and customer service.

On the other hand, those who are already established in their careers or have extensive experience in supply chain management may benefit from pursuing an advanced certification program. These programs typically focus on more complex concepts related to supply chain operations and often require additional coursework or exams. Such programs can help individuals hone their skills and develop specialized knowledge that is essential for successful management of global supply chains.

Ultimately, whether or not an individual should pursue a supply chain & logistics certificate depends on their existing level of knowledge and experience, as well as their personal objectives. Those who want to stay ahead of industry trends or specialize in certain areas may find value in completing an advanced certification program; however, it is important to weigh the cost-benefit analysis carefully before making any decision.

Related: Supply Chain & Logistics Resume Examples

FAQs About Supply Chain & Logistics Certifications

Q1. What is a Supply Chain & Logistics Certification?

A1. A Supply Chain & Logistics Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates a person’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of supply chain management and logistics. It can demonstrate to employers that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the field and can effectively manage supply chain operations.

Q2. Who should pursue a Supply Chain & Logistics Certification?

A2. Supply Chain & Logistics Certifications are beneficial for individuals who are looking to advance their career in the field or those who are interested in entering the supply chain industry with a competitive edge. The certifications also provide managers and executives with the latest information on best practices, allowing them to make informed decisions about their organization’s supply chain operations.

Q3. What types of certifications are available?

A3. There are many different types of certifications available, including Certified Professional Logistician (CPL), Certified Global Logistics Professional (CGLP), Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), and more. Each certification has its own specific requirements and focuses on different aspects of supply chain management and logistics.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified?

A4. The amount of time required to become certified depends on which type of certification you choose and how much time you dedicate to studying for it each week or month. Generally, most certifications require around 6 months of studying before taking an exam, although some may take longer depending on your level of expertise in the subject matter.

Q5. How much does it cost to get certified?

A5: Costs vary depending on which type of certification you pursue as well as any additional materials or resources you may need for studying purposes; however, most certifications range between $500–$1,500 USD depending on where you obtain your certification from and what type it is (e.g., CPL vs CPIM).