Top 11 Warehouse Selector Certifications

Warehouse selectors play an important role in the supply chain. They are responsible for selecting, packaging and shipping items to customers in a timely manner. As such, certifications demonstrate that a warehouse selector has the required knowledge and skills to effectively perform their job duties. Certifications also show employers that the individual is committed to their career and has taken steps to further their professional development. Additionally, certifications can help warehouse selectors stand out from other job applicants, giving them an advantage in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for warehouse selectors, and how they can help advance their career.

What are Warehouse Selector Certifications?

Warehouse selector certification is a program designed to help employees become more productive in the warehouse environment. It provides employees with the knowledge and skills they need to maximize their efficiency in the warehouse, including safety procedures, proper handling of materials and equipment, and how to accurately select items for shipment. It also covers topics such as inventory control, order picking techniques, and other important aspects of working in a warehouse. By becoming certified, employees can learn best practices and be better equipped to handle the challenges they may face on a daily basis. Certification can also lead to career advancement opportunities within a company or industry. Ultimately, it can help workers become more productive and efficient while reducing accidents and errors that could have costly consequences.

Pro Tip: When obtaining warehouse selector certification, make sure to practice the best safety standards and procedures. This includes proper lifting techniques, following forklift protocol, and adhering to all safety regulations. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date on any changes in the industry or new technology that can help increase efficiency and accuracy.

Related: What does a Warehouse Selector do?

Top 11 Warehouse Selector Certifications

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

1. Certified Warehouse Associate (CWA)

Certified Warehouse Associate (CWA) is a certification program designed to provide an industry-recognized credential for warehouse workers. The CWA program was developed by the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) with the goal of creating a standardized set of skills and knowledge for warehouse personnel. The certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in core warehouse functions, such as receiving, stocking, picking, packing, shipping, inventory control, and safety.

The CWA exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as warehouse operations, safety practices, inventory management and customer service. To become certified as a CWA, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and can be taken online or at a testing center.

The cost of taking the CWA exam varies depending on where you take it. Online exams typically cost between $50-$75 USD while testing centers may charge up to $200 USD for the same exam.

2. Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)

Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLA certification is designed to provide logistics professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage the supply chain. This certification is ideal for those who are looking to advance their career in logistics and supply chain management.

The CLA certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as inventory control, transportation management, warehousing, customer service, and distribution. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least three years of relevant experience in order to be eligible for the certification.

In order to obtain the CLA certification, applicants must first register for the exam through AST&L's website. After completing registration, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online exam portal. Once logged in, applicants can begin taking practice exams and studying for the actual test.

The cost of registering for the CLA exam is $395 USD. This fee includes access to study materials and practice tests as well as the actual exam itself. Additionally, there may be additional fees depending on where you take your test (e.g., proctoring fees).

Once an applicant passes the CLA exam, they will receive their official certificate from AST&L within 4-6 weeks after passing the test. With this certificate comes lifetime recognition as a Certified Logistics Associate (CLA).

3. 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 designation is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of supply chain management best practices and principles.

The CSCP program consists of a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as global supply chain strategy, customer relations, inventory management, transportation, warehousing, and more. It also includes a four-hour exam that tests knowledge of these topics. To earn the CSCP designation, individuals must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%.

The program typically takes between six months and one year to complete. During this time, candidates are expected to study the material in preparation for the exam. ASCM offers online study materials and courses to help prepare candidates for the exam.

The cost of the CSCP program varies depending on whether you choose to take an online or in-person course. Online courses typically cost between $1,400 and $2,000 while in-person courses can range from $2,500 to $3,500. Candidates must also pay an additional fee of $695 for the exam itself.

4. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the essential terminology, concepts, and strategies related to production and inventory management. CPIM certification demonstrates an individual's knowledge of the principles of production and inventory management, including demand management, master scheduling, material requirements planning, capacity requirements planning, sales and operations planning, supplier relationship management, quality control, continuous improvement methods, and enterprise resource planning systems.

It typically takes about six months to two years to complete the CPIM program. The length of time depends on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying for the exams. The CPIM program consists of five courses that must be completed in order: 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 has its own exam that must be passed in order to receive certification.

The cost for the entire CPIM program varies depending on which format you choose: self-study or instructor-led classroom sessions. The self-study option costs $1,995 USD while the instructor-led classroom sessions cost $3,495 USD. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking each exam ($395 USD per exam). Once all five exams have been successfully completed, individuals will receive their official CPIM certification from APICS.

5. Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)

Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary for successful performance in logistics operations. The CLT program is administered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L).

The CLT program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level is designed to assess a candidate’s knowledge and skills in specific areas related to logistics operations. To become certified at each level, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation management, customer service, warehouse operations, and more.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all three levels of the CLT program. Candidates must be members of AST&L in order to take the exams. The cost for membership varies depending on the type of membership chosen; however, it can range from $50-$200 per year. Additionally, there are exam fees associated with taking each level of the CLT program; these fees range from $150-$250 per exam.

6. Certified Distribution and Logistics Manager (CDLM)

Certified Distribution and Logistics Manager (CDLM) is a professional certification offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in supply chain management, logistics, and distribution. The CDLM certification is ideal for those working in the field of logistics or distribution, as it provides employers with assurance that their employees possess the necessary skills to effectively manage their supply chain operations.

The CDLM certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers five core areas: inventory control, warehouse operations, transportation management, customer service, and purchasing. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in logistics or distribution. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of three hours.

The cost of obtaining the CDLM certification varies depending on the applicant's country of residence. In the United States, it costs $395 USD to register for the exam and $395 USD to receive the certificate after passing it. In other countries, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or receiving the certificate.

It typically takes four to six weeks from registration to receive your results from taking the CDLM exam. If you pass, you will receive your official CDLM certificate within two weeks after passing the exam.

7. Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM)

Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals in the supply chain management field.

To become a Certified Supply Chain Manager, you must have at least five years of experience in supply chain management or related fields. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as inventory management, logistics, procurement, operations management, and customer service. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for the CSCM certification program varies depending on whether you are a member of APICS or not. For non-members, the cost is $595 USD plus applicable taxes. For members, it is $495 USD plus applicable taxes. Additionally, there may be additional fees for study materials or other services associated with preparing for and taking the exam.

Once you have passed the exam and earned your CSCM certification, it is valid for three years from when you first earned it. To maintain your certification after this period has expired, you must complete 30 continuing education credits every three years to keep your CSCM credential active.

8. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals who have completed a Lean Six Sigma training program. The certification is designed to provide professionals with the skills needed to identify and eliminate waste in their organizations, as well as improve processes and increase customer satisfaction.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically takes between 4-6 weeks to complete, depending on the provider. To get certified, you must attend an accredited training program and pass an exam. The exam covers topics such as process improvement, project management, data analysis, problem solving and more.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider but can range from $1,000 - $3,500 USD.

9. OSHA Forklift Operator Certification

OSHA Forklift Operator Certification is a certification program that is designed to ensure that forklift operators have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate a forklift. It is required by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) for anyone who operates a powered industrial truck, such as a forklift. The certification typically lasts three years and must be renewed after that time period.

To get certified, an individual must attend an OSHA-approved forklift operator training program. This program will include instruction on the safe operation of the specific type of forklift they will be operating, as well as general safety practices related to operating any type of powered industrial truck. Upon completion of the training program, the individual must pass an evaluation test administered by their employer or instructor in order to receive their certification card.

The cost of the training program varies depending on the provider and can range from $50-$500 or more for classroom-based courses. Online courses may be cheaper but are not recommended due to their lack of hands-on instruction and practical experience with actual equipment. Additionally, some employers may cover all or part of the cost of training for their employees.

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

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage the global supply chain. The CLTD program provides a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers topics such as transportation management, inventory control, warehouse operations, demand planning, reverse logistics, and more. It also includes best practices for managing the entire supply chain from end-to-end.

The CLTD certification requires applicants to pass an exam that consists of 150 multiple choice questions. The exam is offered in both English and Spanish language versions. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of related work experience or a degree in supply chain management or a related field.

To prepare for the CLTD exam, APICS offers study materials including textbooks, practice tests, webinars and online courses. Additionally, there are several third-party training programs available that can help candidates prepare for the exam.

The cost of the CLTD certification varies depending on which materials are purchased and whether or not an individual chooses to take advantage of any discounts offered by APICS or its partners. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD to become certified.

The total amount of time it takes to become certified depends on how quickly an individual can learn and retain the material covered on the exam as well as their availability to take it when it is offered. On average most people spend between 6-12 months preparing for and taking the exam before they receive their certification.

11. IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Training Certificate

The IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Training Certificate (DGR) is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge of the regulations and requirements for transporting dangerous goods by air. The training covers topics such as packaging, labeling, documentation, safety measures, and emergency response procedures. It is designed to ensure that individuals working with hazardous materials are knowledgeable and compliant with the regulations.

The training typically takes two days to complete and can be taken in a classroom setting or online. Most courses include lectures, interactive exercises, and hands-on practice with packaging and labeling materials. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive their DGR certificate from IATA.

The cost of the DGR training varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs around $800-$1,000 for a two-day classroom course or $500-$600 for an online course. Prices may vary depending on the provider and location of the training.

In order to obtain a DGR certificate, individuals must successfully complete the course and pass a written exam at the end of the training. Those who pass will receive their certificate from IATA which is valid for two years after issuance.

Do You Really Need a Warehouse Selector Certificate?

Whether or not you need a warehouse selector certificate depends on the job you are applying for and the laws of your state. Generally, if you are applying for a warehouse selector position, having a certificate is beneficial because it shows employers that you have taken the time to learn about safety procedures and protocols specific to this type of work.

In some states, employers may require applicants to have a certificate in order to be considered for certain warehouse selector positions. For example, in California, employers must provide training and obtain certification from the Department of Industrial Relations before allowing someone to work as a selector. Other states may also have similar regulations.

Having a warehouse selector certificate can also help demonstrate your knowledge and experience with operating material handling equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks. It can also show potential employers that you understand how to safely handle products and materials within the workplace environment.

In most cases, obtaining a warehouse selector certificate is not required but it can be beneficial when looking for employment in this field. It can show potential employers that you are knowledgeable about safety protocols and procedures related to warehouse operations, which could give you an edge over other applicants who do not possess one. Additionally, having a certificate could make you eligible for certain jobs or promotions within this industry.

Related: Warehouse Selector Resume Examples

FAQs About Warehouse Selector Certifications

1. What is a Warehouse Selector Certification?

A Warehouse Selector Certification is a type of certification that is designed to ensure that a warehouse selector has the skills and knowledge necessary to safely and efficiently pick, pack, and sort items in a warehouse setting.

2. How long does it take to become certified as a Warehouse Selector?

The length of time required to become certified as a Warehouse Selector will depend on the specific certification program you are taking. Generally, most programs require completion of an online course or classroom-based training, followed by an exam. The length of time required can range from a few hours up to several weeks depending on the program.

3. Is there any additional training or experience required for Warehouse Selector Certification?

In addition to completing the necessary coursework, some certifications may also require practical experience in order to be fully certified as a Warehouse Selector. This could include hands-on training with experienced warehouse selectors or working with supervisors in order to gain further understanding of the role and responsibilities associated with being a warehouse selector.

4. Are there any fees associated with obtaining Warehouse Selector Certification?

Yes, some certifications may require payment of fees in order to be fully certified as a Warehouse Selector. These fees can vary depending on the certification program and provider but will generally include costs for examination materials, registration fees, and other administrative costs associated with obtaining certification.

5. How often must I renew my Warehouse Selector Certification?

The frequency at which your certification must be renewed will vary depending on the specific certification program you are taking part in; however, most programs require renewal every two years in order for your credentials to remain valid and recognized by employers and other organizations within the industry.