Top 10 Warehouse Operator Certifications

Certifications are important for warehouse operators in the job market because they demonstrate that the operator has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job proficiently. Certifications can also provide employers with assurance that the operator understands best practices and safety protocols in a warehouse environment. Having certifications can make a candidate stand out from other applicants and can increase their chances of securing a job. Additionally, certifications can help warehouse operators stay informed on industry trends, technology, and regulations which can help them be more effective in their role.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications for Warehouse Operators and explain how they can boost their career prospects.

What are Warehouse Operator Certifications?

Warehouse operator certification is a type of professional training program designed to help individuals learn the skills they need to become successful warehouse operators. The program typically covers topics such as safety, operations, materials handling, storage and retrieval systems, as well as computer-based inventory management systems. The certification can help warehouse operators gain the skills they need to be able to work in a variety of different warehouses and ensure that goods are stored safely and efficiently. It can also help them understand how to use the latest technology in order to maximize efficiency and productivity. Additionally, having a warehouse operator certification can make an individual more attractive for many employers who are looking for talented individuals to fill their positions. This certification can also provide an individual with the confidence they need to succeed in this field.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research and understand the requirements for warehouse operator certification in your area before applying. Many certifications require passing an exam or completing a certain number of hours of training, so it's important to be aware of these requirements before you start the process.

Related: What does a Warehouse Operator do?

Top 10 Warehouse Operator Certifications

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

1. Certified Warehouse Technician (CWT)

Certified Warehouse Technician (CWT) is a certification program offered by the International Warehousing Logistics Association (IWLA). It is designed to help warehouse professionals demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the field of warehousing and logistics. The certification is awarded upon successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as safety, inventory management, material handling, and quality control.

The CWT exam can be taken online or in person at an IWLA-approved testing center. The exam typically takes about two hours to complete, but may take longer depending on the individual's level of preparation. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience working in a warehouse or related field.

The cost of taking the CWT exam varies depending on where it is taken. Online exams are typically less expensive than those taken at a testing center. The cost can range from $150-$400 depending on the location and type of exam taken.

Once an individual passes the CWT exam, they will receive their official certification from IWLA. This certificate will serve as proof that they have met all of the requirements necessary to become a Certified Warehouse Technician.

2. Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)

Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the field of logistics. The certification is intended for entry-level logistics professionals, including those working in supply chain management, inventory control, transportation, warehousing and distribution.

To obtain the CLA certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by AST&L. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation, warehousing and distribution. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost of obtaining the CLA certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of AST&L. For non-members, the cost is $350 USD; for members, it is $275 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at an approved testing center.

In order to take the CLA exam, applicants must first register with AST&L and pay the applicable fee. Once registered, applicants will receive instructions on how to schedule their test date at an approved testing center. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CLA certificate within 4-6 weeks after completion of all requirements.

3. Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)

Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful logistics technicians. The CLT certification is awarded by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is an internationally recognized credential that validates the knowledge, skills, and abilities of logistics technicians.

The CLT certification requires applicants to pass two exams: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as inventory management, warehousing operations, transportation regulations, supply chain management, and customer service. The practical exam assesses the applicant’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

The cost of obtaining the CLT certification varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 for both exams.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete all requirements for the CLT certification. This includes studying for and taking both exams as well as completing any additional requirements set forth by AST&L.

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 provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage global supply chain activities.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online learning system, an exam, and a professional development program. The online learning system includes over 30 hours of coursework covering topics such as supply chain strategy, global logistics, customer relationship management, and risk management. The exam is a three-hour multiple-choice test that covers these topics in depth. Finally, the professional development program includes webinars, workshops, and other resources to help individuals stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the CSCP program. To get certified, individuals must first register for the CSCP exam. Once registered, they have six months to complete the online learning system and pass the exam. After passing the exam, individuals must submit their application for certification along with their fee of $695 USD (as of 2021).

Once certified, individuals are required to recertify every five years by completing 75 continuing education credits or retaking the CSCP exam.

5. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to help production and inventory professionals gain the knowledge and skills they need to effectively manage production and inventory activities.

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, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each course contains a series of modules that cover topics such as supply chain management principles, forecasting techniques, inventory control systems, enterprise resource planning systems, quality management systems, project management concepts, and more.

It typically takes around 18-24 months to complete the CPIM program. To get started on the path to CPIM certification you must first become an APICS member. The cost of membership varies depending on whether you are an individual or a corporate member. After becoming an APICS member you can then register for the CPIM exams which cost $495 per exam. You must pass all five exams in order to receive your certification.

6. Certified Distribution and Fulfillment Professional (CDFP)

Certified Distribution and Fulfillment Professional (CDFP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA). The CDFP credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the areas of warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment operations.

The CDFP program requires applicants to meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass an exam that tests their knowledge of warehouse logistics principles. To qualify for the certification, candidates must have a minimum of three years of full-time experience in warehousing, distribution, or fulfillment operations. Additionally, applicants must have either an associate’s degree or higher in supply chain management or business administration with a concentration in logistics/distribution; OR at least four years of full-time experience in warehouse logistics operations.

The cost for the CDFP exam is $325 USD for IWLA members and $425 USD for non-members. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official CDFP certificate from IWLA.

7. OSHA Forklift Operator Certification

OSHA Forklift Operator Certification is a certification program that is designed to ensure that forklift operators have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and efficiently operate a forklift. The certification process consists of two parts: classroom training and practical evaluation.

Classroom training typically takes 8-10 hours and covers topics such as the types of forklifts, safety regulations, operating procedures, loading/unloading techniques, maintenance requirements, and emergency procedures. During the practical evaluation, an instructor observes the operator while he or she operates a forklift in a controlled environment.

To obtain OSHA Forklift Operator Certification, individuals must attend an approved training course from an accredited provider. The cost of these courses varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100-$300. After successfully completing both parts of the certification process, operators will receive a certificate that is valid for three years.

8. OSHA Hazardous Materials Handling Certification

OSHA Hazardous Materials Handling Certification is a certification awarded to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) regulations regarding the safe handling of hazardous materials. This certification is designed to ensure that workers are knowledgeable about the potential risks associated with hazardous materials and how to properly handle them.

The length of time it takes to get OSHA Hazardous Materials Handling Certification depends on the individual's experience and background in safety and health. Generally, it can take anywhere from one day to several weeks or months, depending on the type of training required.

To get OSHA Hazardous Materials Handling Certification, individuals must complete an approved training course that covers topics such as hazard communication, personal protective equipment, material safety data sheets, labeling systems, spill control procedures, and emergency response plans. After completing the training course, individuals must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of OSHA Hazardous Materials Handling Certification varies depending on the type of training required and where it is taken. Generally speaking, courses range from $50-$500 for online courses and up to $1,000 for in-person classes.

9. OSHA Material Handling Equipment Certification

OSHA Material Handling Equipment Certification is a certification program developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure that workers who operate material handling equipment are properly trained and qualified. The certification requires employers to provide training for their workers on the safe operation of material handling equipment, including forklifts, pallet jacks, and other powered industrial trucks.

The length of time it takes to get OSHA Material Handling Equipment Certification depends on the type of training needed. Basic certification usually takes between one and two days, while more advanced courses may take up to five days.

To get OSHA Material Handling Equipment Certification, employers must first register their employees with an authorized OSHA-approved provider. The provider will then provide the necessary training materials and administer the tests required for certification. Upon successful completion of the tests, employees will receive a certificate verifying their qualification to operate material handling equipment safely.

The cost of OSHA Material Handling Equipment Certification varies depending on the type of course taken and the number of employees being certified. Generally speaking, basic courses can range from $100-$500 per employee, while more advanced courses can cost up to $1,000 per employee.

10. National Safety Council's Lift Truck Operator Training Program

The National Safety Council’s Lift Truck Operator Training Program is a comprehensive program designed to teach operators how to safely and efficiently operate lift trucks. The program is designed for those who are new to operating lift trucks, as well as experienced operators who need to brush up on their skills. The program consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training, which covers topics such as lift truck safety, operation basics, load handling techniques, and more.

The program typically takes two days to complete, with the first day being dedicated to classroom instruction and the second day focusing on hands-on training. During the classroom portion of the course, participants will learn about lift truck safety regulations and best practices, along with basic operation skills. On the second day of the course, participants will be able to practice what they learned in the classroom in a controlled environment under the guidance of an instructor.

To get certified through this program, individuals must attend both days of training and successfully pass a written test at the end of each day. Upon successful completion of both days of training and passing both tests, participants will receive a certificate from the National Safety Council indicating that they have completed their Lift Truck Operator Training Program.

The cost for this program varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 per person.

Do You Really Need a Warehouse Operator Certificate?

A warehouse operator certificate can be helpful for anyone who is looking to work in a warehouse environment. It provides proof that the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully manage a warehouse. This type of certification is especially important when applying for a job as it can give employers assurance that the applicant is qualified and capable of performing the duties of a warehouse operator.

The benefits of having a warehouse operator certificate include: improved job prospects, increased trust and credibility with employers, greater understanding of warehouse operations, and improved safety practices in the workplace. Those who have this certification are able to demonstrate their knowledge of inventory control, shipping and receiving processes, product movement, storage and distribution systems, as well as other pertinent topics related to warehousing operations.

In addition, having a warehouse operator certificate can help an individual feel more confident in their abilities and enhance their chances of obtaining employment. The certification also demonstrates that an individual is committed to learning about their industry and staying up-to-date with current trends and best practices.

Overall, obtaining a warehouse operator certificate can be beneficial for those who want to work in this field. By demonstrating dedication to learning about warehousing operations, individuals will have an advantage when seeking employment opportunities or advancing within their current positions.

Related: Warehouse Operator Resume Examples

FAQs About Warehouse Operator Certifications

Q1: What is a Warehouse Operator Certification?

A1: A Warehouse Operator Certification is a credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate warehouse equipment. The certification is designed to ensure that warehouse operators are properly trained and qualified to perform their job duties in a safe, efficient manner.

Q2: What types of certifications are available?

A2: There are several different types of Warehouse Operator Certifications available, including Forklift Operator Certifications, Reach Truck Operator Certifications, Order Picker Operator Certifications, and Pallet Jack Operator Certifications.

Q3: How long does it take to get certified?

A3: The time it takes to get certified depends on the type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, most certifications can be obtained within 1-2 weeks with proper study and practice.

Q4: Where can I find training for my certification?

A4: Most warehouses offer on-site training for their employees. Additionally, there are many third-party providers who offer specialized training programs for various warehouse operator certifications.

Q5: Are there any costs associated with obtaining a certification?

A5: Yes, there may be costs associated with obtaining a certification depending on the type of certification you are seeking and the provider offering the training. Costs typically include course materials such as textbooks or manuals as well as exam fees or other testing fees.