Top 11 Warehouse Supervisor Certifications

Certifications are important for a warehouse supervisor in the job market because they demonstrate a level of proficiency and knowledge in the field. A certification indicates that an individual has the necessary skills and qualifications to be successful in a role. It also shows potential employers that the individual is committed to their career and willing to invest time and resources into furthering their education. Certifications can also provide additional credibility when applying for jobs or promotions, as they show employers that an individual has taken the initiative to stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain how some of the top certifications for Warehouse Supervisors can help advance their career.

What are Warehouse Supervisor Certifications?

Warehouse supervisor certification is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in managing warehouse operations. It is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed a comprehensive training program and passed an exam.

The certification helps employers identify qualified candidates for positions in warehouse management. Holding the certification shows employers that the candidate has the necessary skills to manage warehouse operations effectively and efficiently. It also demonstrates a commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development.

By earning the certification, individuals gain access to additional job opportunities, higher pay scales, increased career advancement potential, and greater respect from peers and employers alike. The certification also serves as an important benchmark for setting standards of performance within the industry.

Certified warehouse supervisors are more likely to be up-to-date on relevant safety regulations, labor laws, and best practices in order management, inventory control, and operations optimization. As such, they can help organizations achieve maximum efficiency while minimizing operational costs.

Pro Tip: When considering warehouse supervisor certification, make sure to research the various certifications available and choose one that meets your individual needs. Additionally, be sure to find out about any continuing education requirements associated with the certificate in order to maintain its validity.

Related: What does a Warehouse Supervisor do?

Top 11 Warehouse Supervisor Certifications

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

1. Certified Warehouse Supervisor (CWS)

Certified Warehouse Supervisor (CWS) is a professional certification program designed to provide warehouse supervisors and managers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully manage a warehouse. The CWS certification is offered by the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), an international organization dedicated to advancing the practice of warehousing through research and education.

To obtain the CWS designation, applicants must complete an online course that includes six modules covering topics such as inventory management, safety and security, customer service, quality control, and personnel management. Upon completion of the coursework, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by WERC in order to receive their certification. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all topics covered in the coursework.

The cost for taking the CWS certification course varies depending on whether you are taking it online or in person. Online courses typically cost between $400-$600 USD while in-person courses range from $800-$1,000 USD. Additionally, there is a one-time fee of $150 USD for taking the exam.

In total, it takes approximately 4-6 months to complete all requirements for obtaining your CWS certification.

2. Certified Logistics Supervisor (CLS)

Certified Logistics Supervisor (CLS) is a certification program offered by the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in logistics operations. The certification is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge and skills related to the management of warehouse and distribution operations.

To become certified, an individual must pass a written exam that covers topics such as inventory management, order fulfillment, customer service, supply chain management, safety, and quality control. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and lasts for two hours. Candidates must score at least 70% to pass the exam.

The cost of taking the CLS exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $200 and $400 USD. The certification is valid for three years from the date of issue.

To maintain their certification status, CLS holders must complete 20 continuing education credits every three years or retake the exam every three years.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification program that is designed to help supply chain professionals develop and demonstrate their mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage global supply chain activities. The CSCP designation is awarded by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM).

The CSCP program takes approximately 18 months to complete, including studying for the exam and completing all required coursework. To become certified, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in supply chain management and pass the three-part CSCP exam.

To get started, interested individuals can purchase an exam registration package from ASCM. This package includes access to an online learning system with study materials, practice questions, and other resources to help prepare for the exam. The cost of the package varies depending on whether you are a member of ASCM or not; non-members pay $1,595 while members pay $995.

4. 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). The CPIM program provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage production and inventory activities within an organization. It is designed to help individuals understand the concepts of production and inventory management, as well as how they interact with other business functions.

The CPIM program consists of five courses that must be completed in order to become certified: 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 covers topics such as demand forecasting, capacity planning, inventory control systems, purchasing strategies, quality management systems, supply chain networks, logistics systems design, and more.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPIM program depending on the individual's availability for study time. In order to become certified through APICS one must pass all five exams with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for the CPIM program varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. For non-members it costs $1125 USD for all five exams while members pay $875 USD. Additionally there are fees associated with each exam ($195 USD per exam for non-members; $145 USD per exam for members).

5. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to identify and improve processes within an organization. The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is designed to help individuals become more effective in their roles as process improvement professionals.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically takes around four weeks to complete. During this time, participants will learn the fundamentals of Lean Six Sigma, including how to identify and analyze processes, develop solutions for process improvement, and implement those solutions. Participants will also gain experience in data collection and analysis, project management, problem solving, team building, and communication.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, you must successfully complete a course that meets the requirements of the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC). This includes completing an IASSC-accredited training course or passing an IASSC-accredited exam. Additionally, some organizations may require additional training or experience before granting certification.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification can vary depending on the provider. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$3000 USD while exams range from $300-$500 USD.

6. OSHA 30-Hour Certification

OSHA 30-Hour Certification is a comprehensive safety training program designed to provide workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize, avoid, and prevent workplace hazards. The program is offered in two formats: online and classroom. The online format is self-paced and can be completed in as little as four days; the classroom format requires 30 hours of instruction over five days.

To get OSHA 30-Hour Certification, students must complete an OSHA-approved training course. Depending on the provider, courses may include topics such as hazard communication, fall protection, lockout/tagout procedures, electrical safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), machine guarding, fire prevention and emergency preparedness. Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive an OSHA 30-Hour card that serves as proof of certification.

The cost of OSHA 30-Hour Certification varies depending on the provider and format chosen. Generally speaking, online courses range from $50 to $400 while classroom courses range from $100 to $1,000 or more.

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 individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and understanding of logistics, transportation and distribution. This certification is offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM).

The CLTD certification is intended for those who work in logistics, transportation and distribution roles, including professionals such as supply chain managers, logistics engineers, warehouse managers, operations supervisors, freight forwarders and other related positions. The program covers topics such as global logistics management, inventory management, warehousing and storage operations, transport economics and pricing strategies.

It takes an average of 6-12 months to complete the CLTD program. To obtain the certification you must complete a series of courses provided by ASCM or an approved provider. You must also pass the CLTD exam which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam fee is $495 USD for members of ASCM or $595 USD for non-members.

8. IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Training Certificate

The IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) Training Certificate is a qualification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the regulations related to the safe transport of dangerous goods by air. The training covers topics such as classification, packing, marking, labeling, documentation, and emergency response. It is designed for individuals who are involved in any aspect of shipping dangerous goods by air including shippers, freight forwarders, airlines, ground handlers, and other personnel.

The IATA DGR Training Certificate is valid for two years from the date of issue and can be renewed every two years. The duration of the course varies depending on the provider but typically takes between four to five hours to complete.

To obtain the certificate you must first complete an approved IATA DGR training program. There are a number of providers offering online courses which can be completed at your own pace or in-person courses which take place over one or more days. The cost of the course will vary depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD.

9. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is an industry-recognized certification for project managers offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to demonstrate a project manager’s knowledge and experience in leading and directing projects.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, as well as pass a four-hour PMP exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing a project.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to prepare for the PMP exam. This includes studying the material covered on the exam and gaining real-world experience in project management.

To get PMP certified, you must first apply for the certification through PMI’s website. You will need to provide proof of your education and professional experience qualifications before you can take the exam. After submitting your application, you will receive an eligibility ID number which you must use when registering for the exam.

The cost of getting PMP certified varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI. For non-members, it costs $555 USD to take the exam while members pay $405 USD. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with study materials or courses necessary to prepare for the exam.

10. Forklift Operator Certification

Forklift Operator Certification is a certification that is required for individuals who wish to operate a forklift. It certifies that the operator has been trained in the safe and proper use of the equipment. The certification is typically valid for three years and must be renewed after that time.

To get Forklift Operator Certification, an individual must complete a training program approved by their employer or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This program includes classroom instruction, practical exercises, and written tests. After completing the training, the operator must pass a written exam administered by OSHA or an accredited testing agency.

The cost of obtaining Forklift Operator Certification varies depending on where you take the course and how long it takes to complete it. Generally speaking, courses range from $100 to $500 depending on length and complexity.

In order to maintain your certification, you will need to renew it every three years with either additional classroom training or online courses. Renewal fees can range from $50 to $200 depending on the type of renewal chosen.

11. International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) Certification

The International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) Certification is a certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the warehouse logistics industry. The IWLA Certification is awarded to organizations that demonstrate a commitment to quality, safety, and operational excellence.

The process for obtaining the IWLA Certification typically takes between three to six months depending on the size of the organization. To obtain the IWLA Certification, an organization must submit an application package that includes a detailed description of their operations, processes, and procedures; a copy of their most recent financial statements; evidence of compliance with applicable laws and regulations; proof of insurance coverage; and other relevant documents.

Once all documents are submitted, an independent auditor will conduct a comprehensive audit of the organization’s operations and processes. If the audit is successful, the organization will receive its IWLA Certification.

The cost for obtaining an IWLA Certification varies depending on the size of the organization. Generally speaking, larger organizations can expect to pay more for their certification than smaller organizations.

Do You Really Need a Warehouse Supervisor Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a warehouse supervisor certificate to be a warehouse supervisor. However, having one may give you an edge over other candidates and make you more marketable in the job market. A warehouse supervisor certificate can demonstrate your knowledge of inventory management, safety protocols, and other processes that are needed to effectively lead a team of workers in a warehouse setting.

Having a certification in this area can also prove that you have taken the initiative to learn the necessary skills and knowledge required for the position. Additionally, such certifications may help to show potential employers that you are serious about the profession and have invested in yourself by taking courses or workshops related to warehouse management.

In conclusion, obtaining a warehouse supervisor certificate is not absolutely necessary for becoming a successful warehouse supervisor but it can certainly give you an advantage when competing for positions or promotions within the field. It is up to each individual as to whether they feel it is worth investing time and money into obtaining such certification but it could certainly prove beneficial in achieving career goals.

Related: Warehouse Supervisor Resume Examples

FAQs About Warehouse Supervisor Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a warehouse supervisor?

A: To become a warehouse supervisor, you must have at least 3 years of experience in warehouse operations and management, as well as a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, many employers prefer candidates who have completed additional certifications in areas such as safety, quality control, and logistics.

2. How long does it take to complete a warehouse supervisor certification?

A: The length of time it takes to complete a warehouse supervisor certification depends on the type of certification you choose and the amount of time you are able to dedicate to studying for it. Generally speaking, most certifications can be completed within 6-12 months with regular study and practice.

3. What topics are covered in a warehouse supervisor certification?

A: A typical warehouse supervisor certification will cover topics such as safety regulations, inventory management, supply chain management, customer service skills, and problem-solving strategies.

4. Are there any online courses available for obtaining a warehouse supervisor certification?

A: Yes! There are several reputable online courses available that offer comprehensive training for individuals seeking to obtain their warehouse supervisor certification. These courses often include video lectures and interactive quizzes that help students learn the necessary material quickly and efficiently.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a warehouse supervisor certification?

A: The cost of obtaining a warehouse supervisor certification varies depending on the institution offering the course and whether or not you take an online course or attend classes in person. Generally speaking, expect prices to range from $500-$2000 USD depending on which route you decide to take.