The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management is a vocational qualification designed to provide learners with a strong foundation in the principles of shipping, logistics, and supply chain operations. Shipping is the backbone of global trade, and effective supply chain management ensures that goods move efficiently from producers to consumers across international markets. This diploma introduces learners to the essential knowledge and practical skills required to begin a career in this dynamic and fast-growing sector.
The programme covers the fundamentals of supply chain management within the shipping industry, including cargo handling, port operations, trade documentation, and the role of shipping in international logistics. Learners will gain an understanding of how supply chains are structured, the importance of coordination between stakeholders, and the impact of globalisation on shipping operations. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical insights, the diploma prepares learners to contribute effectively to the smooth functioning of supply chains.
A key feature of the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management is its focus on employability. The course equips learners with the ability to interpret trade documentation, understand customs procedures, and apply supply chain principles to real-world shipping scenarios. It also highlights the importance of safety, compliance, and customer service in maritime logistics, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the professional standards expected in the industry.
This qualification is suitable for school leavers, early-career professionals, or individuals already working in logistics who wish to specialise in shipping and supply chain management. It provides a pathway to roles such as shipping assistant, logistics coordinator, freight forwarding clerk, or supply chain support officer. The diploma is also internationally recognised, making it valuable for learners seeking opportunities both locally and abroad.
In addition to preparing learners for immediate employment, the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management also serves as a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications in logistics, maritime management, or international trade. By completing this diploma, learners not only gain practical skills but also establish a clear progression route for further study and career advancement.
In conclusion, the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management is an excellent choice for individuals looking to build a career in the global shipping and logistics industry. It provides a comprehensive introduction to supply chain principles, shipping operations, and trade compliance, while also focusing on the practical skills needed in the workplace. With the continued growth of international trade and the increasing demand for skilled professionals in supply chain management, this diploma represents a valuable investment in a future-focused career.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management:
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management 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 |
| QC06171- 1 | Fundamentals of Shipping and Supply Chain Management | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06171- 2 | Trade Documentation, Customs and Compliance | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06171- 3 | Cargo Handling, Ports and Logistics Operations | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06171- 4 | Shipping Contracts, Payments and Incoterms | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06171- 5 | Introduction to Marine Insurance and Risk Awareness | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06171- 6 | Communication, Customer Service and Professional Practice in Supply Chains | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management:
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 supply chain 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, shipping, or logistics is required.
- The course is designed to provide a foundation for those new to the maritime and supply chain sectors.
- Learners with part-time or voluntary experience in logistics, warehousing, or administration may find it beneficial.
- An interest in international trade, shipping, or supply chain management 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 Shipping Supply Chain Management
Unit 1: Fundamentals of Shipping and Supply Chain Management
- Understand the role of shipping in global supply chains.
- Identify the key components of supply chain management.
- Explain the relationship between shipping, logistics, and trade.
- Recognise the importance of ports in international supply chains.
- Demonstrate awareness of how goods move from origin to destination.
- Apply basic supply chain principles to shipping examples.
- Evaluate the significance of shipping in global commerce.
Unit 2: Trade Documentation, Customs and Compliance
- Identify the main documents used in international trade.
- Explain the purpose of bills of lading, invoices, and customs declarations.
- Understand the role of customs authorities in regulating trade.
- Apply knowledge of Incoterms to trade documentation.
- Recognise the importance of compliance in customs clearance.
- Demonstrate awareness of tariffs, duties, and trade regulations.
- Evaluate the impact of documentation errors on supply chain operations.
Unit 3: Cargo Handling, Ports and Logistics 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 supply chain case studies.
- Recognise risks associated with cargo handling and storage.
- Demonstrate awareness of port equipment and logistics technology.
- Evaluate the importance of efficiency in port and logistics operations.
Unit 4: Shipping Contracts, Payments and Incoterms
- Understand the financial aspects of shipping contracts.
- Identify key terms and conditions in 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 supply chain operations.
Unit 5: 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 supply chain risks.
Unit 6: Communication, Customer Service and Professional Practice in Supply Chains
- Understand the importance of communication in supply chain operations.
- Demonstrate effective customer service skills in a logistics environment.
- Recognise the role of cultural awareness in global trade.
- Apply problem-solving skills to supply chain challenges.
- Understand professional behaviour in shipping and logistics contexts.
- Demonstrate teamwork and collaboration in supply chain operations.
- Evaluate the importance of customer satisfaction in trade success.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management is designed for individuals who are starting their journey into the world of logistics, shipping, and global trade. It provides a strong foundation in supply chain principles, trade documentation, and shipping operations, making it ideal for learners who want to gain practical knowledge and skills that can be applied to entry-level roles. This qualification is accessible and internationally relevant, preparing learners for a wide range of opportunities in shipping and logistics.
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 shipping and logistics sectors.
- Offers practical skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
- Builds confidence for learners transitioning from education to employment.
2. Aspiring Shipping and Logistics Assistants
- Suitable for individuals aiming to work in shipping or logistics support roles.
- Equips learners with knowledge of documentation, customs, and compliance.
- Provides training in cargo handling and port operations.
- Prepares learners for support roles in supply chain teams.
3. Freight Forwarding and Trade Support Staff
- Beneficial for those starting careers in freight forwarding or trade administration.
- 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 and logistics 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 supply chain context.
- Provides knowledge of documentation and compliance requirements.
- Builds awareness of the importance of customer service in logistics.
6. International Learners Seeking Global Opportunities
- Recognised internationally, making it suitable for learners abroad.
- Provides transferable skills for employment in shipping and logistics 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 shipping supply chain management.
- Enhances employability by adding a recognised qualification.
- Supports career development and progression.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Shipping Supply Chain Management is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to build a career in the maritime and logistics 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.