9 top warehouse certifications for career growth.

​Whether you're just breaking into the logistics field or are determined to move up the career ladder, following through on getting the right warehouse certifications can really pay off. This is important if you’re starting out and learning the ropes or if you’re a seasoned expert looking to get ahead in your logistics career.

In fact, it's a strategic move that can open up new job opportunities and truly set you apart from the crowd. From the ground floor operating a forklift to the top floor overseeing global supply chains, your credentials matter. Some certifications are required just to get in the door, while others are designed to level up your career entirely.

​We've put together a guide that walks your through 9 key certifications that help you step up your game and truly make your mark in the operational world of work.

entry-level and intermediate warehouse certifications.

​This list is for you if you’re a warehouse worker in your early or mid-career stage and are all game to step up. We’ve rounded up the top options that will help you build upon your current knowledge and set you up for new and better chances advancing your career, down the line.

1. certifications for forklift safety and operation.

You can’t get into a forklift operator role without this certification. Because, it’s an absolute must-have. The training goes over all the critical safety protocols and operational skills, so you can confidently carry out your work with this key piece of equipment.

You can sign up for courses from a diverse set of organizations. In conclusion, it’s worth checking out if your local warehousing employers run their own programs.

2. certified logistics associate (CLA).

The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC)’s ​The Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) is one of the most prominent logistics-related certifications and an ideal starting point of your career in this field.

It is perfect for you to solidify your foundational knowledge for front-line material handling. Furthermore, the program walks you through the basics, breaking down core expertise in safety procedures and inventory control.

3. certified logistics technician (CLT).

Once you’re nailed down the basics of CLA, the Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) is the clear way up in your career. This is one of those advanced certifications that has you diving into more complex topics. Some of such clusters include getting into the details of warehouse management systems and thinking through sophisticated distribution framework.

As it stands, it’s the ideal way to gear up for and move into higher-level logistics roles. Additionally, earning your CLT will line you for higher-level material handling responsibilities, too.

4. qualified warehouse logistics professional (QWLP).

​Designed by International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA), the Qualified Warehouse Logistics Professional (QWLP) one such certifications that propel your warehousing career further up. To qualify, you must have racked up at least one year of on-the-job experience.

The course curriculum will go over topics like inventory management and logistics planning. In addition, you’ll also learn how to deal with complex supply chain communication.

5. national career readiness certificate (NCRC).

​ACT runs the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC). This program's main goal is to outline your foundational employability skills. It’s an especially smart choice if you’re working in a warehouse. The content drills down into practical areas of applied math.

That’s a skill you’ll need to fall back on when figuring out inventory. Furthermore, it comes in handy when you deal with daily tasks while working in a warehouse.

advanced warehouse certifications.

Feeling like you’ve hit a wall in your current role? Are you looking for a real differentiator in your skill profile? An advanced certification can pay off. Check out these top-tier options we’ve rounded up for you.

6. certified logistics professional (CWLP).

Gear up for this certification from IWLA, if you’re a seasoned expert. It’s designed for you if you’ve already invested time in the industry. You’ll need to show at least two years of experience under your belt to sign up.

In addition, this program helps you round out your existing expertise. How? The curriculum gets into diverse aspects of warehousing. This includes looking into both inventory management and process automation.

7. certified production and inventory management (CPIM).

​The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) one of the most prominent certifications in inventory management. In fact, it’s perfect for you if you’re working in production and inventory management.

This gist? It gives you practical skills to take on complex supply chain challenges. Furthermore, you’ll learn how to operate technology to tighten up your warehouse operations and cut down on inefficiency.

8. certified supply chain professional (CSCP).

This is another excellent certification run by ASCM. It’s curated to help you connect the dots. How? You’ll learn how your local operations fit the global picture. What does this mean? The curriculum goes over how international supply chains form a visible link.

Additionally, the course walks you through methodologies to better your team collaboration. In conclusion, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of logistics management principles and their broader applications in the real world.

9. certifications for six sigma in warehousing.

Certifications for Six Sigma in warehousing introduce you to the foundational framework of Six Sigma. It expands into a set of techniques that focus on process improvements. Additionally, you’ll het familiar with how to analyze your warehouse operations.

How exactly? You’ll learn how to point to areas of improvement. Course further amplifies your understanding on how to carry out data-driven methodology. What’s more? It helps you cut down on errors and seriously ramp up productivity in real-time.

Ultimately, the goal is a leaner, faster and more efficient warehouse.

get hired in manufacturing and logistics.

You’ve leveled up your skills with new certifications. Now, it’s time to take the next step: your job search. Check out in-demand roles in manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, skilled trades and more. How are our listings lucrative for your job search?

We’ve brought diverse roles across several levels for forklift operators, pickers & packers, manufacturing workers and many more under one roof. How can you access this exhaustive list of openings? Sign up for Randstad’s job alerts.

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