Warehouse Management Classes and Training
Warehouse managers oversee the handling and storage of a company's supplies and goods as well as tracking supply requests and forecasting future material needs. Warehouse manager training can include university education, though sometimes a combination of certificate programs and work experience is sufficient. Some community and 4-year colleges offer undergraduate degree or certificate programs in logistics and warehousing or warehouse management, which may require completion of between 10 and 18 credits. Individual courses may be found through schools of professional education and can cover topics such as warehouse and distribution center layout, lean warehousing and warehouse engineering. Many colleges offer online warehouse management courses that can be completed from anywhere, sometimes on a flexible schedule. Commonly available warehouse management courses include those in:
- Supply chain management
- Operations management
- Warehouse management
- Business training
- Some legal courses
Individuals interested in earning a degree can look to associate's degree programs in supply chain management and logistics, which may include specialized classes in storing food or managing warehouses at docks and airports. The highest level of training for a warehouse manager is a master's degree in business, and some MBA programs offer a concentration in operations and supply chain management. However, it is perfectly possible to have a successful warehouse manager career without a master's degree. Graduate business degree programs further develop students' skills in managing personnel and overseeing budgets and help them use their specialized knowledge to improve a business's overall success.
Here are some of the major concepts you'll encounter while studying warehouse management:
- Business basics
- Inventory control
- Management techniques
- Source selection
- Acquisitions law
- Fundamentals of transportation and logistics
- Basics of the supply chain
- Software courses
- Transport and shipping
Warehouse Management Courses
Inventory and Warehouse Management Courses
Students learn the key aspects of inventory control and materials handling in inventory and warehouse management courses. They develop their knowledge of receiving and storing materials with an eye to greater profitability for their company. Instructors provide lessons in proper material processing, including the picking and shipping of goods. Students learn the technologies and computer systems that assist managers in maintaining inventory and forecasting supply needs.
Acquisitions and Purchasing Courses
These classes survey the duties of purchasing agents and the methods used in acquiring materials and goods. Assignments allow students to develop familiarity with source selection, contracting, acquisitions law, and pricing for acquired goods. Lessons include tips for pricing materials and key negotiating skills. Students will analyze the value offered by vendors for products and use this information when planning equipment and supply purchases.
Supply Chain and Logistics Management Courses
Instructors discuss the challenges facing supply chains in our modern global economy. Students acquire the ability to coordinate logistical information so the movement of materials is seamless. They learn about all aspects of the supply chain, from the extraction of raw materials through to waste management. Class topics include emphasis on meeting deadlines, customer service and accurately forecasting future logistical needs. Students also learn the technologies used in the industry and production planning in order to maximize profitability in their future employment.
Transportation and Freight Operations Courses
Students develop an understanding of the role transportation plays in society and the economy. Classes discuss the environmental impacts of transportation operations and the regulations affecting the industry, including federal and international counter-terrorism laws. Students learn the effective management of transportation hubs and transportation pricing standards. Assignments introduce the technologies used in managing transportation operations and maintaining shipment security.
Training Resources
There are a number of organizations where prospective warehouse managers can look for professional guidance, online courses, and more. These include:
- The International Warehouse Logistics Association
- The Institute for Supply Management
- The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals
Online Course Options
Individuals seeking online training options in warehouse management do have some options. For instance, some universities offer supply chain management courses both online. Other schools offer online courses that provide an introduction to operations management. It is also possible to receive an online certification in warehouse management.
Warehouse Management Career Information
Job Outlook and Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not list warehouse management information careers on its own, but it reported that in 2020, transportation, storage, and distribution managers made a median annual salary of $96,390. The field is expected to see a growth of 8% for the 2020-2030 decade, which is average for all jobs across the United States.
Certification
Warehouse managers are not legally required to receive professional certification, but many individuals do anyway as it can improve their job prospects. Several different organizations provide such certification, including the American Purchasing Society. Their course can be taken online, often in conjunction with other courses offered by the APS. Certification is also a great way for warehouse managers to keep up with new advancements in their field, including digital systems, security, and labor practices.
