The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is a vocational qualification designed to provide learners with the essential knowledge and skills required to begin a career in one of the most dynamic sectors of global commerce. International trade relies heavily on shipping, which remains the backbone of the global supply chain, transporting the majority of goods across borders. This diploma offers a structured pathway for individuals who wish to gain a recognised qualification that prepares them for entry-level roles in shipping operations, logistics services, and trade support functions.
The programme introduces learners to the fundamentals of international trade and shipping, including the movement of goods, trade documentation, customs procedures, and the importance of compliance with international regulations. It also covers the role of ports, cargo handling, and the financial aspects of shipping, ensuring that learners develop a well-rounded understanding of how trade and shipping are interconnected. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, the diploma ensures that participants are equipped with the skills needed to contribute effectively to the shipping and logistics industry.
A key feature of the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is its focus on employability. Learners will gain insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of shipping clerks, trade assistants, and logistics coordinators. The course highlights the importance of accuracy in documentation, effective communication, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential in a fast-paced international trade environment. This makes the qualification particularly valuable for those seeking to enter the workforce directly after completion.
The diploma is suitable for school leavers, early-career professionals, or individuals already working in logistics who wish to specialise in international trade and shipping. It provides a stepping stone to more advanced qualifications in trade, logistics, or maritime management, while also opening up opportunities for immediate employment in shipping companies, freight forwarding firms, and international trade organisations. The qualification is recognised internationally, ensuring that learners can pursue career opportunities both locally and abroad.
In conclusion, the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is an excellent choice for anyone looking to establish a career in the global trade and shipping sector. It equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to contribute effectively to international trade operations while also providing a pathway to further study and professional development. With global trade continuing to expand and shipping remaining central to the movement of goods, this diploma represents a valuable investment in a future-focused career.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping:
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is a 60-credit qualification with a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours, including 210 Guided Learning Hours (GLH). This program is meticulously crafted to deliver focused and efficient skill development in the field of project management.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC06169- 1 | Fundamentals of International Trade and Shipping | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06169- 2 | Trade Documentation and Customs Procedures | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06169- 3 | Cargo Handling, Ports and Shipping Operations | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06169- 4 | Shipping Contracts, Payments and Incoterms | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06169- 5 | Introduction to Marine Insurance and Risk Awareness | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06169- 6 | Communication, Customer Service and Professional Practice in Trade | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping:
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment.
- This ensures participants have reached the minimum school-leaving age in most countries.
- It allows younger learners to begin developing vocational and trade-related skills early.
- The age requirement also ensures learners are mature enough to engage with workplace-related content.
Educational Background
- Completion of secondary education (GCSEs or equivalent international qualification).
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills are required to understand trade and shipping concepts.
- Learners should be able to follow written instructions and communicate effectively in English.
- No advanced academic qualifications are required, making the course accessible to a wide audience.
Experience
- No prior work experience in trade or shipping is required.
- The course is designed to provide a foundation for those new to the maritime and trade sectors.
- Learners with part-time or voluntary experience in logistics, trade, or administration may find it beneficial.
- An interest in international trade, shipping, or logistics is strongly recommended to support motivation and engagement.
Language Proficiency
- For non-native English speakers, an IELTS 5.0 or equivalent qualification is required.
- Each band score should not fall below 4.5 to ensure comprehension of technical terms.
- Alternatively, evidence of prior study in English or workplace communication skills may be accepted.
- This ensures learners can participate fully in discussions, assignments, and assessments.
Learning Outcomes: QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping
Fundamentals of International Trade and Shipping
- Understand the role of shipping in supporting global trade.
- Identify key stakeholders in international trade and maritime operations.
- Explain the basic principles of import and export processes.
- Recognise the importance of ports and shipping lines in supply chains.
- Demonstrate awareness of trade routes and shipping markets.
- Apply basic trade concepts to practical shipping examples.
- Evaluate the significance of shipping in global commerce.
Trade Documentation and Customs Procedures
- Identify the main documents used in international trade.
- Explain the purpose of bills of lading, invoices, and certificates of origin.
- Understand the role of customs authorities in regulating trade.
- Apply knowledge of Incoterms to trade documentation.
- Recognise the importance of accuracy in customs clearance.
- Demonstrate awareness of tariffs, duties, and compliance requirements.
- Evaluate the impact of documentation errors on trade operations.
Cargo Handling, Ports and Shipping Operations
- Explain the principles of safe cargo handling in ports.
- Identify different types of cargo and their handling requirements.
- Understand the role of ports in facilitating international trade.
- Apply knowledge of port operations to shipping case studies.
- Recognise risks associated with cargo handling and storage.
- Demonstrate awareness of port equipment and technology.
- Evaluate the importance of efficiency in port and shipping operations.
Shipping Contracts, Payments and Incoterms
- Understand the financial aspects of shipping contracts.
- Identify key terms and conditions in charter parties and contracts of carriage.
- Explain the role of Incoterms in defining responsibilities.
- Apply knowledge of payment methods in international trade.
- Recognise the importance of contract compliance in shipping.
- Demonstrate awareness of risks in contractual agreements.
- Evaluate the role of contracts in ensuring smooth trade operations.
Introduction to Marine Insurance and Risk Awareness
- Explain the principles of marine insurance in shipping.
- Identify different types of marine insurance policies.
- Understand the concepts of insurable interest and indemnity.
- Apply knowledge of risk assessment to shipping operations.
- Recognise the importance of insurance in protecting financial assets.
- Demonstrate awareness of claims procedures and documentation.
- Evaluate the role of insurance in managing trade risks.
Communication, Customer Service and Professional Practice in Trade
- Understand the importance of communication in international trade.
- Demonstrate effective customer service skills in a trade environment.
- Recognise the role of cultural awareness in global business.
- Apply problem-solving skills to trade-related challenges.
- Understand professional behaviour in shipping and trade contexts.
- Demonstrate teamwork and collaboration in trade operations.
- Evaluate the importance of customer satisfaction in trade success.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is designed for individuals who are beginning their journey into the world of global trade and maritime operations. It provides a strong foundation in trade documentation, customs procedures, shipping operations, and financial awareness. This qualification is accessible and prepares learners for a wide range of entry-level roles in shipping, logistics, and international trade.
1. School Leavers and College Graduates
- Ideal for those completing secondary education and seeking a vocational pathway.
- Provides a recognised qualification to support entry into the trade and shipping sectors.
- Offers practical skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
- Builds confidence for learners transitioning from education to employment.
2. Aspiring Trade and Shipping Assistants
- Suitable for individuals aiming to work in trade support or shipping offices.
- Equips learners with knowledge of documentation and customs procedures.
- Provides training in basic shipping operations and cargo handling.
- Prepares learners for support roles in trade and logistics companies.
3. Logistics and Freight Forwarding Staff
- Beneficial for those starting careers in logistics or freight forwarding.
- Helps learners understand the financial and operational side of shipping.
- Provides knowledge of Incoterms, payments, and compliance.
- Supports career progression into logistics and transport roles.
4. Maritime Enthusiasts with No Prior Experience
- Accessible to learners with no background in trade or shipping.
- Offers a structured introduction to the maritime industry.
- Encourages interest in further study or career development.
- Provides a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications.
5. Entry-Level Administrative and Customer Service Staff
- Suitable for those working in trade administration or customer-facing roles.
- Enhances communication and teamwork skills in a trade context.
- Provides knowledge of documentation and compliance requirements.
- Builds awareness of the importance of customer service in trade operations.
6. International Learners Seeking Global Opportunities
- Recognised internationally, making it suitable for learners abroad.
- Provides transferable skills for employment in trade and shipping worldwide.
- Offers insight into international trade and customs procedures.
- Builds a foundation for global career mobility.
7. Early-Career Professionals Seeking Specialisation
- Suitable for individuals already working in logistics or administration.
- Provides an opportunity to specialise in international trade and shipping.
- Enhances employability by adding a recognised qualification.
- Supports career development and progression.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to build a career in the maritime and trade sectors. It is designed to be accessible, practical, and internationally relevant, ensuring learners gain the skills and knowledge required for entry-level roles. By completing this qualification, learners open doors to employment opportunities in shipping companies, logistics firms, and trade organisations, while also creating a pathway to advanced study and professional growth.