The Certified Shipping Operations Professional/Manager (CSOP)™/(CSOM)™ certification program is a prestigious and globally relevant qualification designed for professionals working in shipping, freight forwarding, and maritime logistics. As the shipping industry is the backbone of international trade, operational efficiency, compliance, and sustainability are crucial to success. This program equips participants with advanced knowledge in vessel scheduling, cargo handling, port operations, customs compliance, supply chain integration, and the application of digital technologies in shipping operations.
Shipping operations go far beyond vessel movement—they encompass freight documentation, chartering, stowage planning, shipping finance, global regulatory frameworks, and coordination with carriers, ports, and logistics partners. Participants will explore industry best practices for fleet management, multimodal integration, risk management, and sustainable shipping. The curriculum emphasizes operational reliability, cost efficiency, customer service, and the use of technology such as AIS (Automatic Identification System), blockchain, and digital shipping platforms to optimize performance.
Whether engaged in liner shipping, tramp services, bulk shipping, or freight forwarding, graduates of the CSOP™/CSOM™ program will be prepared to manage complex shipping operations in compliance with international maritime standards.
Certification Program Objectives:
Upon completing the Certified Shipping Operations Professional/Manager (CSOP)™/(CSOM)™ program, participants will be able to:
- Understand Core Shipping Operations – Gain expertise in vessel scheduling, chartering, and port coordination.
- Manage Cargo and Documentation – Oversee stowage, freight documentation, bills of lading, and customs clearance.
- Ensure Regulatory Compliance – Align operations with IMO, SOLAS, MARPOL, and other international standards.
- Leverage Technology for Efficiency – Use AIS, blockchain, and digital platforms to optimize shipping workflows.
- Integrate Shipping into Global Supply Chains – Coordinate shipping with logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
- Promote Sustainable and Safe Shipping Practices – Apply green initiatives, emissions reduction, and safety standards.
Certification Eligibility Criteria:
To apply for certification from The Operations Management Institute (OMI), candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
And/or
- 0–4.9 years relevant experience for Professional level (CSOP)™, or 5+ years for Manager level (CSOM)™.
Note: Applicants who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree but possess exceptional professional experience and hold significant positions within their organizations in a relevant field may also be considered for certification on a case-by-case basis, subject to the approval of the OMI evaluation committee.
Certifying Examination:
- To be certified as CSOP™/CSOM™, student should take up a 1.5 hours online exam conducted by OMI.
- The qualifying exam would consist of 50 multiple choice questions, testing core certification modules.
- Professionals with relevant experience and other qualifying criteria may be exempted from the examination.
Certification Modules:
- Module 1: Shipping Operations Fundamentals
- Module 2: Port and Terminal Management
- Module 3: Maritime Law and Compliance
- Module 4: Cargo Handling and Logistics Coordination
- Module 5: Technology and Innovation in Shipping
- Module 6: Sustainable Shipping Practices
* The Certification Title and its modules are regularly reviewed, updated and may change in alignment with evolving industry needs and regulatory standards.
Who Should Do This Certification:
The CSOP™/CSOM™ certification is ideal for professionals working in shipping and maritime logistics, including:
- Shipping Operations Managers – Overseeing daily vessel and cargo management.
- Freight Forwarding Professionals – Managing international cargo movement and documentation.
- Chartering and Fleet Managers – Coordinating vessel utilization and contracts.
- Port and Terminal Coordinators – Managing ship turnaround and cargo operations.
- Compliance and Risk Officers – Ensuring alignment with international maritime regulations.
- Consultants and Advisors – Supporting operational optimization in global shipping.
Key Benefits of CSOP / CSOM Certification
- Professional Recognition – Establishes credibility as an expert in shipping operations.
- Career Growth – Opens pathways to senior roles in shipping, freight, and maritime logistics.
- Global Relevance – Skills applicable across liner, bulk, and tramp shipping industries.
- Practical Learning – Based on real-world shipping operations and case studies.
- Professional Network – Connect with global shipping, logistics, and maritime professionals.
- Measurable Impact – Improve shipping reliability, reduce costs, and enhance customer service.
- Best Practice Alignment – Built on internationally recognized maritime and shipping standards.
The CSOP™/CSOM™ certification empowers professionals to manage shipping operations that are efficient, compliant, and future-ready. Whether your focus is cargo logistics, vessel scheduling, or sustainable practices, this program provides the tools to excel in the global shipping industry.
