MSSC Logistics (CLA/CLT) Certification

Based upon industry-defined, nationally validated standards, these tools include registration; assessments; courses; textbooks; teacher certification training; assessment center certification training; and MSSC credentials.

Individuals will be assessed for two credentials: the foundational-level Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) certificate and mid-level Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) Certification. CLA is a prerequisite for the CLT certification. These credentials address the core competencies of higher skilled, front-line material handling workers (entry-level to first line of supervision) across the supply chain: from factories, to warehouses, to distribution centers to transporters.

To obtain product price sheets, including volume discounts, please contact Neil Reddy, General Manager, at reddyn@msscusa.org or at 703-739-9000, ext. 221

Certification Registration

Each individual wishing to take an MSSC assessment must pay a one-time registration fee. MSSC serves as the repository of individual assessment records and issues credentials.

Assessments

MSSC offers two logistics assessments. The CLA assessment is based upon foundational knowledge and skills. The CLT assessment is based upon mid-level technical knowledge and skills. CLA certification is a prerequisite for taking a CLT assessment.

Each assessment is delivered online and contains about 80 multiple-choice questions. It takes approximately 90-120 minutes to complete one assessment. MSSC provides test scores as soon as the individual completes an assessment showing whether an individual met the “cut” scores for passing. This immediate feedback includes a report showing the individuals score on the nine key work activities within CLA and CLT. This information is intended for self-improvement and is provided to all test-takers whether or not they pass.

Courses

To enhance the competency of the supply chain logistics workforce and to help individuals increase their chances of success on MSSC Assessments, MSSC offers two logistics courses.

These courses are designed for a blended learning environment using both instructor led and e-learning methodologies. Students will have the ability to enhance their knowledge and computer skills through the e-learning material. MSSC offers courses only to educational institutions and companies that have either an MSSC-Certified Instructor in Supply Chain Logistics (see below) or have purchased the MSSC Instructor’s Package for CLT.

Note: MSSC does not require individuals to take MSSC courses in order to take the assessments.

CLA Course (Foundational Level)

This course provides students with the foundational knowledge needed to understand the world of supply chain logistics and related core competencies. Learning materials include .PDF textbook and e-learning modules. Students will have an enjoyable learning experience and at the same time prepare for their credential. This course includes: safety, quality control, communications, teamwork, good workplace conduct and familiarity with the key computer systems that underpin supply chain operations.

CLT Course (Mid-level Technical)

This course provides students with the mid-level technical knowledge needed to understand the world of supply chain logistics and related core competencies. Learning materials include .PDF textbook and e-learning modules. Students will have an enjoyable learning experience and at the same time prepare for their credential. This course includes: product receiving, product storage, order processing, packaging and shipment, inventory control, safe handling of hazardous materials, evaluation of transportation modes, customs, and dispatch and tracking operations.

Assessment Center Training

MSSC offers its assessments only at MSSC-certified Assessment Centers, at company sites served by trained proctors from MSSC-certified Assessment Centers, or other designated test sites. MSSC provides training for proctors, on-site coordinators and IT staff to ensure that the center offers a secure environment administered by individuals with a sound knowledge of MSSC’s on-line assessment process. Proctor/Site Coordinator training typically requires a two hour webinar delivered online. Once an organization successfully completes training, MSSC issues an Assessment Center Certification, suitable for framing and display in the center.

If proctors from an MSSC-certified Assessment Center administer assessments at a remote location (e.g., company training site) other than the Assessment Center itself, individual assessment centers may ask a fee of their own to cover the proctor’s time and out-of-pocket costs. It is the Proctor’s responsibility to coordinate with the remote site to ensure that they have the requisite secure environment and IT capability to deliver the MSSC on-line Assessments.

Centers and test sites may be technical colleges, community colleges, high schools, company training centers, universities, manufacturing extension partnerships, public “One-Stop” centers, and any other reputable non-profit or for-profit organizations with the staff, facilities and computers capable of delivering MSSC’s on-line assessments. Assessment center certification is valid for three years.

Instructor Training for CLA/CLT

MSSC provides an intensive 2-day course to train teachers and instructors on ways to teach CLA/CLT courses in different learning environments. The course includes an Instructor’s Package which contains all materials needed to properly administer a course. Instructors are required to have industry or education experience in supply chain logistics. In order to be listed as an MSSC Certified Instructor, MSSC requires instructors to earn their CLT certification.

Instructors Package Includes:

Power point presentations

Student/Class exercises

E-Learning guide

Test taking guide

Visual aids

CLA/CLT Key Activities

Supplemental materials

Certificates

MSSC issues a CLA Certificate to individuals who pass the CLA Assessment. An individual passing both the CLA & CLT assessments receives a full, diploma-style CLT credential. MSSC Certificates are valid for five years. An individual has two years to complete both assessments to be eligible for full CLT certification. Individuals receiving a CLT Certification will also receive a wallet card, arm patch and “CLT Community Updates.”

There is no charge for MSSC credentials, the costs of which are covered by the one-time registration fee described above. Note: MSSC will charge $10 per copy for reproduction, handling and mailing of each replacement or additional copy requested by credentialed test-takers.

Since the CLA standards define foundational knowledge and skills common across all aspects of supply chain logistics, the MSSC requires all individuals, whether entry-level or incumbent workers, to secure a CLA certificate before taking an assessment for CLT certification.

Diagnostic Tool for Employers

MSSC offers a “Diagnostic Tool for Employers” enabling a company to benchmark its supply chain workforce against national averages on the Key Work Activities within each of the two standards-based MSSC Assessments (CLA & CLT). Due to legal requirements to protect the scores of individual workers, MSSC prepares this report on the basis of 10 or more workers per modular assessment. This tool is an authoritative, independent reference point for a company to determine the strengths and weaknesses of its workforce in the core competencies for material handling in supply chain logistics and to set training priorities.