Top 11 Transportation Operations Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a transportation operations manager in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively manage all aspects of transportation operations. Certifications show potential employers that the individual has taken steps to further their education and stay up-to-date on best practices, safety procedures, and other relevant topics. Additionally, certifications can help a transportation operations manager stand out among other applicants in a competitive job market.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Transportation Operations Managers and explains how they can contribute to a successful career in the transportation industry.

What are Transportation Operations Manager Certifications?

Transportation operations manager certification is a professional credential that recognizes the mastery of skills and knowledge in the field of transportation management. This certification is awarded by professional organizations, such as the American Association of Transportation Management (AATM). It demonstrates to employers that a candidate has mastered the principles, best practices, and regulations related to managing complex transportation operations.

The certification helps individuals stand out from the competition when applying for managerial positions in the transportation industry. It also gives current managers recognition for their work and establishes them as experts in the field. Additionally, it provides access to additional resources and networking opportunities that can help further their career goals.

Certified transportation operations managers are able to better understand and analyze data related to their organization’s operations, which can lead to more efficient management decisions. They also have an increased understanding of safety regulations, resulting in greater compliance with these standards and reducing potential liabilities. Finally, certified professionals are better equipped to handle change within their departments due to their comprehensive understanding of operational processes and procedures.

Pro Tip: It is important for Transportation Operations Managers to obtain certification from a reputable certifying body. This will ensure that they have the necessary skills and expertise to properly manage the operational aspects of their organization's transportation system. Certification will also provide the manager with recognition in the industry and can be used as a tool to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in transportation operations management.

Related: What does a Transportation Operations Manager do?

Top 11 Transportation Operations Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Transportation Operations Manager (CTOM)

Certified Transportation Operations Manager (CTOM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and experience of transportation operations managers. The CTOM designation demonstrates that the holder has achieved a high level of proficiency in managing transportation operations, including safety, security, customer service, and compliance.

It typically takes between one to two years to complete the requirements for the CTOM certification. To get certified, applicants must first meet certain prerequisites such as having at least three years of experience in managing transportation operations or have completed an approved training program. Applicants must then pass an exam administered by the American Transportation Association (ATA). This exam covers topics such as safety regulations, customer service principles, and compliance issues.

The cost of obtaining the CTOM certification varies depending on the applicant’s chosen method of study. Self-study courses range from $500-$1000 while instructor-led courses can cost up to $2000. Additionally, there is a fee for taking the ATA exam which is currently set at $200.

2. Certified Logistics Professional (CLP)

Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Society of Logistics (SOLE). The CLP designation is designed to recognize and reward professionals in the field of logistics who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise.

The CLP program consists of three levels: Associate, Professional, and Master. To become certified at each level, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of logistics principles and practices.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the CLP exams depending on the individual’s experience and background in logistics. Applicants are encouraged to review the SOLE study guide, attend training courses or workshops, or take online classes to help them prepare for the exams.

To get certified as a CLP, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their education and work experience in logistics. They must also pay a fee which varies depending on the level they are applying for – Associate ($250), Professional ($500), or Master ($750).

Once their application is approved, applicants can register for the exam which is administered by SOLE at various locations across North America. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official CLP certification from SOLE.

3. Certified Professional in Logistics and Distribution (CPLD)

Certified Professional in Logistics and Distribution (CPLD) is a certification program offered by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skills, and experience in logistics and distribution. The CPLD certification is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years to maintain its validity.

To get the CPLD certification, candidates must have at least five years of relevant work experience in logistics and distribution, plus they must pass an exam administered by the CSCMP. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test a candidate's knowledge on topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, transportation management, customer service, warehousing operations, reverse logistics, and global supply chains.

The cost for obtaining the CPLD certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of the CSCMP. For non-members, the cost is $595 USD. For members of the CSCMP, the cost is $395 USD.

4. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of supply chain management best practices. The CSCP credential is highly sought after by employers in the logistics, warehousing, and supply chain industries.

The CSCP certification process involves completing a comprehensive online course, passing an exam, and submitting an application for review. The course covers topics such as inventory management, global supply chain management, customer service, and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

It typically takes about six months to complete the entire CSCP certification process. However, this timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances.

The cost of obtaining the CSCP credential varies based on whether you are an APICS member or not. For non-members, the fee is $695 USD for the exam only or $1,295 USD for both the course and exam. For APICS members, the fee is discounted to $495 USD for just the exam or $995 USD for both the course and exam.

In addition to these fees, there are also other costs associated with obtaining your CSCP certification such as books and study materials which can range from $100-$300 USD depending on what you choose to purchase.

5. APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the essential body of knowledge in production and inventory management. The CPIM program consists of two exams, Basics of Supply Chain Management and Master Planning of Resources, which cover topics such as supply chain management, inventory planning and control, materials requirements planning, forecasting, master scheduling, performance measurements and more.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CPIM program. To get started with the CPIM program, you must first register with APICS and pay the registration fee. You will then receive access to study materials that include textbooks, practice exams, webinars and other resources. After completing your studies and passing both exams with a score of 70% or higher, you will be awarded your CPIM certification.

The cost of the CPIM program varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or non-member. For members, it costs $1125 USD for both exams; for non-members it costs $1450 USD for both exams.

6. International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certification

The International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certification is an internationally recognized certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of logistics. This certification is designed to help employers identify qualified candidates for logistics positions and to provide logisticians with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and abilities.

SOLE Certification requires applicants to pass a written exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation, warehousing, and customer service. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in the field of logistics or related areas.

To obtain SOLE Certification, applicants must first register with SOLE and pay the required fee. Once registered, applicants can then begin studying for the exam by accessing study materials on the SOLE website or by purchasing study guides from third-party vendors. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within four weeks.

The cost for SOLE Certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of SOLE. For members, the cost is $250 USD while non-members pay $350 USD.

7. American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L) Certification

American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate proficiency in the areas of transportation, logistics, and supply chain management. The AST&L certification is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in these areas.

The AST&L certification process consists of two parts: an online application and an examination. The online application requires applicants to submit their educational background, professional experience, and references. Once the application is approved, applicants must take an exam that covers topics such as freight transportation, warehousing, inventory management, supply chain management, customer service, and more. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and must be taken at a designated testing center.

The cost for the AST&L certification varies depending on the type of certification sought. For example, the Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) certification costs $295 for members of AST&L or $395 for non-members; while the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification costs $495 for members or $595 for non-members.

In order to maintain their certifications, AST&L certified professionals are required to complete continuing education credits every two years in order to stay up-to-date with industry changes and trends.

8. Association for Operations Management (APICS) Certification

The Association for Operations Management (APICS) Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful operations management professionals. The certification is designed to help those in the field of operations management gain the skills and expertise needed to effectively manage teams, resources, processes, and operations.

The APICS Certification Program consists of three levels: Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified in Production & Inventory Management (CPIM), and Certified Fellow in Production & Inventory Management (CFPIM). Each level requires its own set of examinations and courses. To become certified, individuals must complete all three levels within five years.

To get started on the path to APICS Certification, individuals should first complete an approved APICS course. These courses can be taken online or in person at an accredited institution. After completing the coursework, individuals must pass the relevant exams for each level of certification.

The cost of obtaining APICS Certification depends on which level you are pursuing and which institution you take your courses from. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,200-$2,000 USD per exam plus any additional fees associated with taking the coursework at an accredited institution.

Overall, obtaining APICS Certification is a great way to demonstrate one’s knowledge and skill set in operations management and can open up many career opportunities for those looking to advance their career in this field.

9. Institute of Supply Management (ISM) Certification

The Institute of Supply Management (ISM) Certification is an internationally-recognized professional certification program for supply chain and operations management professionals. It is designed to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to be successful in the field. The certification is awarded by ISM after successful completion of a comprehensive exam.

To become certified, you must have at least three years of full-time experience in supply chain and operations management, or a related field, as well as a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field from an accredited institution. You must also complete ISM’s online certification preparation course prior to taking the exam.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as supply chain strategy and design, procurement and supplier management, inventory management and control, logistics and distribution management, quality assurance and performance measurement, project management principles, and risk management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost of the ISM Certification program varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or non-member. For members, the cost is $595; for non-members it is $795. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the exam ($150 for members; $200 for non-members).

10. Project Management Institute’s Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

The Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally-recognized credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's proficiency in the principles and practices of project management. It is one of the most sought-after certifications for project managers, as it demonstrates their competence in managing projects and leading teams.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to prepare for and pass the PMP exam. This includes studying for the exam, completing practice tests, and taking courses or attending workshops on project management topics. In order to be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of project management experience, with 4500 hours leading projects and 35 hours of formal education in project management topics.

The cost of obtaining a PMP certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members, the cost is $405 USD while non-members pay $555 USD. This fee covers the cost of registering for the exam as well as any additional materials needed such as study guides or practice exams.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will need to maintain your certification by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years from activities related to project management topics.

11. Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead Six Sigma projects. It is a quality management system that helps organizations reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction, and increase efficiency.

How long does it take to get it?

The length of time it takes to complete the certification depends on the type of certification you are seeking. Generally, a Green Belt certification can be completed in two to four months while a Black Belt certification may take around six months.

How to get it?

To become certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by one of several organizations offering Six Sigma certifications. These organizations include ASQ (American Society for Quality), IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification), and CSSBB (Certified Six Sigma Black Belt). The exams typically consist of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as Lean Six Sigma methodology, project management, process improvement tools, and statistical analysis.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma certification varies depending on the organization providing the exam and other factors such as study materials and preparation courses. Generally speaking, Green Belt certifications can range from $500-$2,000 while Black Belt certifications can range from $1,000-$4,000.

Do You Really Need a Transportation Operations Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Transportation Operations Manager Certificate depends on the specific requirements of your job and the expectations of your employer. Generally, having this certificate is beneficial to those who want to work in transportation operations management because it demonstrates an understanding of the principles and practices involved in the field. It also shows employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle the complexities of managing a transportation operation.

In some cases, however, having a Transportation Operations Manager Certificate may not be necessary for certain positions or industries. For example, if you are seeking employment in a trucking company or other business related to transportation operations management, then having this certificate may not be required. Likewise, some employers may be more concerned with experience rather than educational credentials when considering candidates for such positions.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Transportation Operations Manager Certificate will depend on what your employer is looking for and how they value certifications versus experience. If you are confident that you possess the skills and knowledge required for such a position without any additional certification, then pursuing one may not be necessary. However, if you feel that having this certificate would give you an edge over other candidates or help demonstrate your qualifications to potential employers, then obtaining it would likely be beneficial.

Related: Transportation Operations Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Transportation Operations Manager Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Transportation Operations Manager?

Answer: To become a Transportation Operations Manager, you must have a bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field, plus experience in logistics, supply chain management, or transportation operations.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Transportation Operations Manager?

Answer: The certification process typically takes between 4-6 months to complete.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Transportation Operations Manager?

Answer: Benefits of becoming a certified Transportation Operations Manager include improved job opportunities, increased earning potential, and greater credibility among employers and peers.

4. What is included in the certification exam for Transportation Operations Managers?

Answer: The certification exam for Transportation Operations Managers covers topics such as logistics management, transportation operations planning and execution, cost control strategies, risk management strategies, and customer service principles.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification as a Transportation Operations Manager?

Answer: Yes, certified Transportation Operations Managers are required to complete at least 15 hours of continuing education every three years in order to maintain their certification status.