Top 11 Warehouse Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a warehouse manager in the job market because they demonstrate a level of professional knowledge and skill that employers value. Certifications can provide evidence that a warehouse manager has the necessary skills to lead, manage, and organize warehouse operations. In addition, certifications can help to differentiate a candidate from other applicants in the job market by showing an employer that the candidate has gone the extra mile to acquire specific knowledge and training related to warehouse management. Finally, certifications can serve as a signal of commitment to professional development, which is often attractive to employers looking for long-term employees.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Warehouse Managers, providing insight into how they can help advance a warehouse manager's career.

What are Warehouse Manager Certifications?

Warehouse manager certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a person's knowledge and expertise in the field of warehouse management. The certification is offered by organizations such as the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). With this certification, individuals can demonstrate their proficiency in managing the operations of a warehouse, including inventory control, personnel management, and safety compliance. This certification also validates an individual's ability to manage a warehouse efficiently and productively.

By obtaining this certification, professionals can gain recognition for their skills and expertise in warehouse management. It also provides them with an advantage when applying for jobs or promotions as it shows employers that they have the necessary qualifications to effectively manage a warehouse. Furthermore, having this certification may lead to higher wages since employers are likely to pay more for someone who has proven knowledge in this area. Finally, the certification serves as evidence of one's commitment to continuous learning and professional development which can help individuals stand out from their competition.

Pro Tip: Be sure to research any warehouse manager certification programs available in your area. Many of these programs require that you have a certain amount of experience or knowledge in the field, so make sure you are aware of the requirements before enrolling. Additionally, look into any certifications offered by organizations such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or the Institute of Supply Management (ISM). These organizations offer specialized certifications that can help give your career a boost.

Related: What does a Warehouse Manager do?

Top 11 Warehouse Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Warehouse Manager (CWM)

Certified Warehouse Manager (CWM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of those who manage warehouse operations. The CWM certification is administered by the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA).

The CWM program consists of three levels: Certified Warehouse Manager (CWM), Advanced Certified Warehouse Manager (ACWM) and Master Certified Warehouse Manager (MCWM). To obtain any level of certification, an individual must pass a written exam that covers topics such as inventory management, safety and security, customer service, warehouse operations and more.

In order to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in warehouse operations or related fields. They must also complete a series of online courses prior to taking the exam. The courses cover topics such as warehousing fundamentals, inventory management, customer service and more. Once the courses are completed and the exam is passed, applicants will receive their CWM certification.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on which level of certification you are seeking. For example, it costs $395 for the CWM certification and $495 for the ACWM certification. The MCWM certification costs $595.

Overall, obtaining a CWM certification takes several months to complete due to course requirements and studying for the exam. However, once obtained it can open up many opportunities in warehousing operations management roles.

2. Certified Logistics Professional (CLP)

Certified Logistics Professional (CLP) is a professional 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 field of logistics. The CLP credential demonstrates that an individual has met rigorous standards for professional development, including a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and processes associated with supply chain management.

In order to obtain the CLP credential, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam administered by AST&L. The exam covers topics such as transportation, warehousing, inventory management, customer service, procurement/sourcing, and other related areas. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost of obtaining the CLP credential varies depending on whether you are an AST&L member or non-member. For members, the fee is $395; for non-members it is $495. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 for all applicants.

The process typically takes about two months from start to finish. After submitting your application and paying the fees, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online exam system. Once you have completed the exam successfully, your results will be sent to AST&L for review and processing. Once approved by AST&L you will be issued your CLP certificate via email or mail within two weeks after approval.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of supply chain management. The CSCP program focuses on teaching best practices, strategies, and tools that are essential to managing a successful global supply chain.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: the CSCP Exam, the CSCP Learning System, and the CSCP Recertification Program. The exam is a four-hour long test that covers topics such as supply chain design, operations, technology, logistics, customer service, and more. The CSCP Learning System consists of online learning materials such as webinars and videos. These materials provide a comprehensive overview of supply chain management concepts and techniques. Finally, the CSCP Recertification Program requires individuals to complete continuing education credits every three years in order to maintain their certification status.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for earning your CSCP certification. To get certified you must first pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the exam you will need to register for and complete the CSCP Learning System coursework within 12 months from your exam date. Once you have successfully completed both components you will be eligible to receive your official certification from ASCM.

The cost for taking the CSCP Exam is $695 USD for members of ASCM and $995 USD for non-members (as of 2021). The cost for completing the online learning system varies depending on which package you choose; however it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD (as of 2021).

4. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIM program provides individuals with a comprehensive understanding of production and inventory management principles, including demand forecasting, procurement, supplier planning, inventory control, production planning and scheduling, quality assurance, and customer service.

The CPIM program consists of five courses: Basics of Supply Chain Management; Master Planning of Resources; Detailed Scheduling and Planning; Execution and Control of Operations; Strategic Management of Resources. Each course requires approximately 40 hours to complete.

To become certified as a CPIM, you must pass all five exams within three years. The cost of each exam is $395 per exam plus an additional fee for membership in APICS. In total, the cost to become a CPIM can range from $2,000 to $2,500 depending on the number of exams taken.

In addition to taking the exams to become certified as a CPIM, it is also important to have relevant work experience in production and inventory management or related fields. Most employers require at least two years' experience prior to granting certification as a CPIM.

5. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a mastery of the Lean Six Sigma methodologies and tools used to improve business processes. The certification is designed for professionals who have experience in process improvement, data analysis, and problem-solving. It is also suitable for those who are interested in leading projects or teams that use Lean Six Sigma principles.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification typically takes between two to four months to complete depending on the program you choose. To get certified, you must complete an accredited training program and pass an exam. There are several different types of programs available including online, classroom-based, and self-paced courses. The cost of the certification varies depending on the type of program chosen but can range from $500-$5,000 USD.

In addition to completing a training program, you may need to have prior work experience in order to be eligible for certification. Some organizations require applicants to have at least three years of work experience in a related field before they can apply for their Green Belt Certification.

Overall, obtaining your Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification can open up new career opportunities and help you become more marketable in the job market by demonstrating your knowledge of process improvement techniques and data analysis skills.

6. OSHA 10-Hour Certificate

The OSHA 10-Hour Certificate is a program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to provide safety training for workers in hazardous industries. The program is designed to give workers an understanding of the hazards they may encounter on the job, as well as how to protect themselves and their coworkers from those hazards. It also covers topics such as accident prevention, hazard communication, personal protective equipment, and other safety topics.

The OSHA 10-Hour Certificate takes approximately ten hours to complete. It can be done online or in a classroom setting depending on the provider. The course is divided into two parts: a five hour general industry course and a five hour construction course. Depending on the provider, there may be additional courses available for specialized industries such as healthcare or maritime work.

To get an OSHA 10-Hour Certificate, you must complete the required courses with an approved provider. These providers are typically located at community colleges or technical schools, but some employers may offer their own courses as well. Once you have completed the courses, you will receive your certificate from your provider.

The cost of an OSHA 10-Hour Certificate varies depending on the provider and location. Generally speaking, it costs between $50-$100 per person for the entire course. Some providers may offer discounts for group rates or if multiple people sign up together.

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

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program designed to recognize professionals for their knowledge and expertise in logistics, transportation, and distribution. It is the only certification of its kind that covers the entire supply chain field from end-to-end.

The CLTD program consists of seven modules covering topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, warehousing, transportation, global logistics strategies, reverse logistics and sustainability. The program also includes two exams: one core exam and one elective exam. The core exam covers the basics of logistics, transportation and distribution while the elective exam focuses on specific areas of expertise within the field.

It takes approximately six months to complete the CLTD program depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying. To get certified you must pass both exams with a score of at least 70%. You can take each exam up to three times before having to retake the entire program if necessary.

The cost of getting certified depends on which package you choose when registering for the program. The basic package costs $1,295 USD and includes access to online study materials and practice tests as well as two attempts at each exam. The premium package costs $1,495 USD and includes all of the benefits of the basic package plus an additional attempt at each exam if needed.

8. Institute of Business Forecasting & Planning Certificate Program

The Institute of Business Forecasting & Planning (IBF) Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to give professionals the skills and knowledge needed to effectively forecast and plan for their business. The program is composed of four courses, which are taken online at the student’s own pace.

The four courses are:

1. Introduction to Business Forecasting & Planning

2. Advanced Forecasting Techniques

3. Strategic Planning & Budgeting

4. Supply Chain Management & Analytics

Each course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete, depending on the student’s experience level. Upon completion of all four courses, students will receive a certificate from IBF that recognizes their achievement in mastering the skills and knowledge necessary for successful forecasting and planning.

To get the IBF Certificate Program, students must first register with IBF and pay the registration fee of $795 USD. Once registered, students can access all four courses online through IBF’s learning platform. After completing each course, students will receive a grade and feedback from an instructor before moving onto the next course in the program. Upon successful completion of all four courses, students will receive their certificate from IBF via email or post mail within 4-6 weeks after completion of the program.

9. American Production and Inventory Control Society Certification

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage production and inventory control systems. The certification is designed to help individuals gain expertise in areas such as supply chain management, operations management, inventory control, purchasing, production planning, quality assurance, customer service, and more.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the certification program depending on the individual's experience level. To get certified by APICS, individuals must first complete a series of courses offered through an approved APICS training provider. After completing the courses, applicants must then pass the APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) exam.

The cost for an individual to become certified by APICS varies depending on the type of coursework taken and any additional materials needed for study purposes. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 USD for an individual to become certified by APICS.

10. International Warehouse Logistics Association Certification

The International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) is a professional organization that provides certification to warehouse operators and logistics professionals. The IWLA Certification Program is designed to recognize the knowledge and expertise of warehouse operators and logistics professionals in the industry.

The program consists of two levels: Certified Warehouse Operator (CWO) and Certified Logistics Professional (CLP). To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, operations, inventory control, customer service, transportation, and more. The exam is offered online or at IWLA-approved test centers.

It typically takes about four weeks to receive the results from the exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate within two weeks.

To get certified through IWLA, applicants must submit an application form along with a fee of $150 USD for CWO or $250 USD for CLP. The fee includes access to study materials and the cost of taking the exam. Applicants must also provide proof of their educational background or work experience in order to be eligible for certification.

11. National Retail Federation's Loss Prevention Certification

The National Retail Federation's Loss Prevention Certification (NRF-LPC) is a comprehensive certification program designed to provide retail loss prevention professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively protect their organization’s assets. The NRF-LPC provides a comprehensive overview of the key areas of retail loss prevention, including risk management, asset protection strategies, investigations, legal issues, and technology.

The NRF-LPC consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and covers topics such as risk assessment, asset protection strategies, investigations, legal issues, and technology. Upon successful completion of the online course, participants are eligible to take the in-person exam at an approved testing center. The in-person exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

To obtain the NRF-LPC certification, individuals must first register for the program through the National Retail Federation website. Registration fees vary depending on membership status with the National Retail Federation but typically range from $150-$200 USD. After registering for the program, individuals will receive access to the online course materials and instructions on how to schedule their in-person exam at an approved testing center.

Once individuals have successfully completed both components of the NRF-LPC program they will be awarded their certification from the National Retail Federation valid for three years from date of issue.

Do You Really Need a Warehouse Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a warehouse manager certificate depends on the job requirements and your particular skills and experience. Generally speaking, having a certificate is not required to work in a warehouse, but it can be beneficial for those who want to advance their career. A certificate can provide additional training and knowledge that could help you become more efficient in your role as a warehouse manager.

Having a warehouse manager certificate can show employers that you have taken the initiative to gain additional qualifications and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. It may also give you an edge over other applicants when applying for higher-level positions. The certificate will also help you develop management skills such as problem solving, communication, team building, and safety protocols which are all important elements of managing a successful warehouse.

In addition to demonstrating your commitment to the profession, having a warehouse manager certificate may also make you eligible for certain job opportunities that require certification. Some companies may prefer certified employees because they know they have met specific industry standards and have been tested on their knowledge of warehousing practices. This is especially true if you are planning on working in larger warehouses with complex systems that require specialized training and experience.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a warehouse manager certificate will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. If you feel like it would be beneficial for your career prospects then it’s definitely worth considering getting one.

Related: Warehouse Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Warehouse Manager Certifications

1. What is a Warehouse Manager Certification?

A Warehouse Manager Certification is an industry-recognized credential that verifies an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to manage warehouse operations effectively. It demonstrates an individual’s dedication to their profession and commitment to providing quality service in a warehouse setting.

2. Who should get a Warehouse Manager Certification?

Those who are currently or aspiring to be in a warehouse management role, such as Logistics Managers, Inventory Managers, Supply Chain Managers, Operations Managers, etc., should consider obtaining a Warehouse Manager Certification. This certification can help individuals stand out in the job market and gain recognition for their expertise and skillset.

3. What are the benefits of getting a Warehouse Manager Certification?

The main benefit of obtaining a Warehouse Manager Certification is that it helps demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills needed to be successful in this type of role. Additionally, it can help open doors for career advancement opportunities and provide increased job security.

4. How do I become certified as a Warehouse Manager?

To become certified as a Warehouse Manager, you must first meet any prerequisites set by the certifying body (usually experience requirements). After meeting these prerequisites, you must then pass an exam administered by the certifying organization which tests your knowledge on topics such as inventory management, supply chain management, safety procedures, etc.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as a Warehouse Manager?

The cost for obtaining certification varies depending on which organization offers the certification and what type of exam you take (i.e., online or in-person). Generally speaking, expect to pay anywhere from $200 - $500 USD for certification exams and associated fees.