Top 10 Supply Chain Planner Certifications

Certifications are an important way for a supply chain planner to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and expertise in the field. Certification programs provide a structured path for professionals to acquire and maintain the necessary qualifications needed to be successful in the job market. This can help supply chain planners increase their earning potential, stand out from other applicants, and be more attractive to employers. Certifications also allow planners to stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices, which can enhance their problem solving skills and give them an edge over non-certified competitors. Ultimately, certifications provide a competitive advantage that can help supply chain planners get hired faster and land better jobs.

This article reviews the top certifications for Supply Chain Planners, and explains how they can contribute to a supply chain planner's career development.

What are Supply Chain Planner Certifications?

Supply chain planner certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of supply chain planning. This certification indicates that the individual has achieved a high level of proficiency in the areas of supply chain management, inventory control, logistics and operations management. Supply chain planners are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to meet customer demand while managing costs and resources. The certified supply chain planner is knowledgeable in all aspects of the supply chain, from sourcing materials to delivery scheduling, so they can help companies maximize efficiency and profitability.

Supply chain planners are expected to have detailed knowledge of industry trends and regulations, as well as comprehensive understanding of business processes. With this certification, employers can be sure they are hiring someone who has acquired specialized skills in the field. This credential also serves as a valuable asset for individuals looking to advance their career in supply chain planning or take on more responsibility within their organization. Additionally, with this certification an individual has demonstrated their commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

Pro Tip: When looking into supply chain planner certification, make sure to research the different certifications available and choose one that best aligns with your career goals. Additionally, look into any prerequisites for the certification you are interested in, as some may require prior experience or additional training to be eligible.

Related: What does a Supply Chain Planner do?

Top 10 Supply Chain Planner Certifications

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

1. APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by APICS, the Association for Operations Management. The CSCP designation is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of supply chain management best practices and principles.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online learning system, a comprehensive exam, and professional development activities. The online learning system consists of 12 modules that cover topics such as global supply chain management, customer relationship management, demand planning, inventory management, and more. It typically takes between 6-9 months to complete the online learning system.

To get the CSCP designation, candidates must pass the comprehensive exam with a score of at least 70%. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in 4 hours. Candidates can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center or remotely through OnVUE online proctoring.

The cost of the CSCP certification varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or non-member. For members, it costs $695 for the learning system and $695 for the exam; for non-members, it costs $1125 for the learning system and $795 for the exam.

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

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage logistics, transportation, and distribution operations. The CLTD certification is designed for those who are working in or looking to enter the field of logistics, transportation, and distribution. It is administered by APICS, an international professional association for supply chain and operations management.

The CLTD certification consists of seven modules that cover topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, transportation management, warehouse operations, global logistics strategies, customer service strategies, and performance metrics. Each module includes multiple-choice questions that test a candidate’s knowledge of the subject matter. Candidates must pass all seven modules to earn the CLTD certification.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CLTD program depending on the individual's experience level and study habits. To get started with the program candidates must purchase a study kit from APICS which includes textbooks and practice exams for each module. The cost of the study kit varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or non-member but typically ranges from $500 - $900 USD. After completing all seven modules candidates can take an online exam to receive their CLTD certification.

3. 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 achieved a high level of competency in the field of supply chain management. The CPSM program consists of three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires passing an exam and completing a set number of hours of continuing education.

The Foundation level covers basic concepts in supply chain management, including procurement and sourcing processes, supplier selection and development, inventory management, and contract administration. The Intermediate level focuses on more advanced topics such as global sourcing strategies, performance measurement and analytics, negotiations, risk management, and project management. The Advanced level covers topics such as strategic planning and execution, financial analysis for supply chain decisions, total cost analysis, technology-enabled supply chain solutions, and leadership skills.

It typically takes between one to two years to complete all three levels of the CPSM program depending on an individual’s prior experience in the field. To get started with the CPSM program individuals must first register with ISM to become a member. Membership costs $169 per year or $299 for two years. After registering for membership individuals can then purchase study materials from ISM which includes practice exams as well as access to online learning modules.

Once individuals are ready they can apply to take the exams which cost $250 each for members ($400 each for non-members). Upon successful completion of all three exams individuals will be awarded their CPSM certification from ISM.

4. IBF Certified Supply Chain Analyst (CSCA)

IBF Certified Supply Chain Analyst (CSCA) is an internationally recognized certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful supply chain analysts. The CSCA program is designed to help individuals develop the competencies required to succeed in their current roles and prepare them for future career advancement. It covers topics such as supply chain strategy, operations, analytics, and technology.

The CSCA program consists of two parts: a self-study component and an online proctored exam. The self-study component includes reading materials, videos, case studies, and practice questions. It takes approximately 40 hours to complete this part of the program. The online proctored exam is a 90-minute test that covers all topics from the self-study component.

To get certified as a CSCA, applicants must first complete the self-study component and then pass the online proctored exam with a score of 70% or higher. Applicants must also have at least two years of relevant work experience in supply chain management or related fields.

The cost of becoming IBF Certified Supply Chain Analyst (CSCA) is $495 USD for members of IBF or $595 USD for non-members.

5. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) CPIM Certification

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) CPIM Certification is a professional certification program for supply chain and operations management professionals. It is designed to demonstrate mastery of the fundamental principles of production and inventory control, including demand management, procurement and supplier planning, material requirements planning, capacity requirements planning, sales and operations planning, master scheduling, performance measurements, supplier relationships, quality control, continuous improvement strategies and inventory management.

The APICS CPIM Certification consists of two exams:

1. Basics of Supply Chain Management (BSCM): This exam covers topics such as supply chain fundamentals, forecasting techniques, inventory management concepts and techniques, purchasing processes and procedures.

2. Master Planning of Resources (MPR): This exam covers topics such as project management tools and techniques; resource planning; capacity requirements planning; sales and operations planning; master scheduling; materials requirement planning; shop floor control systems; total quality management; performance measurement systems; process improvement methods; supplier relationship management; inventory control systems; production activity control systems.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to complete the APICS CPIM Certification program depending on your level of commitment. To get certified you must first register for the exams online at the APICS website. You will then need to purchase study materials from APICS or an approved provider in order to prepare for the exams. Once you have successfully passed both exams you will be awarded your CPIM certification.

The cost for the APICS CPIM Certification varies depending on which study materials you choose but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams.

6. Institute for Supply Management (ISM) SCPro Level 1 Certification

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) SCPro Level 1 Certification is a professional certification program that provides recognition of the knowledge, skills, and abilities of supply chain professionals. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their mastery of the fundamentals of supply chain management.

To obtain the ISM SCPro Level 1 Certification, individuals must complete a series of courses and pass an exam. The courses cover topics such as supply chain fundamentals, sourcing and procurement, inventory management, logistics and transportation, customer service and relationship management, and performance measurement. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering these topics.

The entire process typically takes between three to six months to complete depending on how quickly you can complete the coursework and prepare for the exam.

The cost of obtaining the ISM SCPro Level 1 Certification varies depending on your membership status with ISM. For non-members, it costs $1,295 USD; for members it costs $995 USD; and for students it costs $695 USD.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also have at least two years of professional experience in supply chain management or related fields before they are eligible to receive their certification.

7. International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI) Professional Certificate

The International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI) Professional Certificate is a certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage global supply chains. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of international purchasing, supply chain management, and logistics.

The IPSCMI Professional Certificate requires the completion of six courses: Introduction to Global Supply Chain Management, Global Sourcing & Procurement Strategies, Logistics & Transportation Management, Risk Management & Compliance in Global Supply Chains, Strategic Planning & Performance Measurement for Global Supply Chains, and Advanced Topics in Global Supply Chain Management. Each course is completed online over a period of three months. The total cost for the program is $2,000 USD.

In order to receive the IPSCMI Professional Certificate, participants must successfully complete all six courses within one year from enrollment date. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive an official certificate from IPSCMI as well as access to exclusive job opportunities within the field.

8. Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Advanced Diploma in Procurement & Supply

The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Advanced Diploma in Procurement & Supply is a professional qualification that is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to work in procurement and supply chain management. It covers topics such as contract law, purchasing strategy, risk management and negotiation skills.

The Advanced Diploma typically takes 12-18 months to complete, depending on the individual’s prior experience and learning speed. To get the qualification, individuals must first pass three core modules: Principles of Procurement & Supply, Contract Law and Purchasing Strategy & Negotiation Skills. They must then pass four additional modules from a selection of electives such as Risk Management, Supplier Relationship Management and Sourcing Strategies.

After completing all seven modules successfully, individuals can apply for the CIPS Advanced Diploma in Procurement & Supply by submitting their completed assignments to CIPS for assessment. Once they have been assessed and approved by CIPS, they will be awarded the qualification.

The cost of the course varies depending on where it is taken; however it typically costs around £3,000 - £4,000 in total. This includes fees for the seven modules plus any additional costs associated with taking the course (e.g. travel expenses).

9. American Purchasing Society’s Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) Program

The Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) Program is a professional certification program offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in purchasing management. The CPP designation signifies that an individual has met the rigorous requirements of the APS and has achieved a high level of proficiency in all aspects of purchasing management.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having at least three years of full-time purchasing experience, passing an exam administered by the APS, and agreeing to abide by its code of ethics. The exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, procurement processes, inventory control, contract law, and international trade.

The CPP Program typically takes about six months to complete. During this time, applicants must complete a series of online courses that cover topics such as purchasing fundamentals, cost analysis, supplier selection and evaluation, negotiation skills, and risk management. After completing the courses, applicants must pass the exam administered by the APS.

The cost for the CPP Program varies depending on whether you are an APS member or non-member. For members, it costs $1125; for non-members it costs $1350. This fee includes access to all course materials and exams as well as one year's membership in the APS if you are not already a member.

10. Global Association for Quality Management’s Certified Quality Manager/Certified Quality Engineer Program

The Global Association for Quality Management (GAQM) Certified Quality Manager/Certified Quality Engineer Program is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in quality management principles, practices, and techniques. The program is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the practice of quality management.

The program consists of two levels: Certified Quality Manager (CQM) and Certified Quality Engineer (CQE). To become certified, an individual must pass the CQM or CQE exam. The exams are offered through GAQM's partner organizations, such as Prometric and Pearson VUE. The exams cover topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and risk management.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the program depending on the individual’s study habits and commitment level. It is recommended that applicants have at least three years of experience in a quality-related field before attempting the exam.

To get started with the program, applicants should first create an account with one of GAQM's partner organizations such as Prometric or Pearson VUE. After creating an account, applicants can register for the exam by selecting their preferred date and location. Once registered for the exam, applicants will need to purchase study materials from GAQM or other sources to prepare for the exam.

The cost of the exam varies depending on which partner organization you use to register for it; however, it generally costs around $400-$500 USD per exam attempt. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with purchasing study materials or other related expenses.

Do You Really Need a Supply Chain Planner Certificate?

Yes, a supply chain planner certificate is beneficial for those looking to enter the world of supply chain management. Supply chain planning is an essential part of any business, and having a certification in this field can help open up more job opportunities and provide the necessary knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the industry. A certificate in supply chain planning provides an edge over other applicants who may not have specialized knowledge in the area.

The main benefit of having a supply chain planner certificate is that it gives you an understanding of the different aspects of supply chain management. This includes topics such as inventory management, sourcing and procurement, process improvement, logistics and transportation, customer service, and much more. Having a better understanding of these areas will make you more qualified when it comes to applying for jobs in the field.

In addition to giving you a better understanding of the industry, having a certification also shows employers that you are dedicated to your craft and have taken the time to learn about it in-depth. It demonstrates that you are serious about your career choice and have invested time into researching what it takes to be successful in this field. This can help you stand out from other applicants who might not have taken the same initiative.

Overall, obtaining a supply chain planner certificate is beneficial for those looking to enter into this challenging yet rewarding sector. It gives them an edge over their competition and helps them become better prepared for any job they may apply for within this field.

Related: Supply Chain Planner Resume Examples

FAQs About Supply Chain Planner Certifications

Q1. What is a Supply Chain Planner Certification?

A1. A Supply Chain Planner Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the area of supply chain planning. This certification is typically awarded by professional organizations or universities, and it requires the successful completion of an examination or series of courses.

Q2. What are the Benefits of Obtaining a Supply Chain Planner Certification?

A2. Obtaining a Supply Chain Planner Certification can help to demonstrate expertise in the field, increase job opportunities, and strengthen marketability for career advancement or salary increases. It also serves as proof that an individual has learned how to properly manage inventory levels, track shipping costs, and ensure customer satisfaction.

Q3. How Do I Become Certified as a Supply Chain Planner?

A3. To become certified as a Supply Chain Planner, you must typically complete an approved program of study or pass an examination administered by a recognized organization or university. You may also need to have several years of experience in the field before being eligible for certification.

Q4. What Subjects Are Covered During the Exam for Supply Chain Planner Certification?

A4. The exam for Supply Chain Planner Certification typically covers topics such as operations management, supply chain management principles, inventory management systems, demand forecasting techniques, logistics processes, and transportation optimization strategies.

Q5. How Much Does It Cost to Get Certified as a Supply Chain Planner?

A5. The cost of obtaining certification as a Supply Chain Planner varies depending on which organization or university you choose to pursue your certification from. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay anywhere from $500-$1000 for the entire process including any required coursework or exams needed for certification eligibility