ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipping Operations and Management
The ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipping Operations and Management is designed for learners who want to strengthen their knowledge of the shipping and logistics industry and build on the foundations gained at Level 1. This qualification introduces more detailed aspects of freight forwarding, multimodal transport, and compliance requirements, ensuring learners are prepared to meet the demands of international trade and maritime operations.
Learners will explore the operational processes that drive global shipping, including cargo movement, port activities, and the preparation of essential documentation. The programme focuses on practical skills and industry relevance, enabling learners to contribute effectively to shipping companies, logistics providers, and international trade organisations.
By completing this award, learners will gain the ability to manage shipping documentation with greater accuracy, understand the complexities of supply chain coordination, and apply best practices in compliance and safety. These skills enhance employability and open opportunities in freight forwarding firms, port operations, and logistics hubs worldwide.
The Level 2 Award also provides a clear progression pathway to higher qualifications in shipping and logistics management, supporting learners who aspire to advance into supervisory roles or pursue specialised areas such as maritime law, port management, or international trade compliance. With its learner‑focused design and international recognition, the ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipping Operations and Management is a valuable step towards a rewarding career in the global shipping industry.
International Level 2 Award in Shipping Operations and Management
To enrol in ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipping Operations and Management, learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipping Operations and Management, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Fundamentals of Maritime Logistics and Supply Chains
- Introduction to Freight Forwarding and Transport Modes
- Health, Safety, and Environmental Awareness in Shipping
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipping Operations and Management:
Fundamentals of Maritime Logistics and Supply Chains
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the role of maritime logistics in supporting global trade and economic development.
- Describe the structure and functions of supply chains in the shipping and logistics industry.
- Identify the key stakeholders involved in maritime logistics, including ports, carriers, and freight forwarders.
- Analyse how shipping integrates with other modes of transport within global supply chains.
- Recognise the importance of efficiency, cost control, and reliability in maritime logistics.
- Demonstrate awareness of challenges such as congestion, delays, and environmental pressures.
- Apply basic concepts of supply chain coordination to real‑world shipping scenarios.
- Appreciate the impact of technology and digitalisation on modern maritime logistics.
Introduction to Freight Forwarding and Transport Modes
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Define the role of freight forwarders in international trade and shipping operations.
- Identify the main modes of transport—sea, air, road, and rail—and their advantages and limitations.
- Explain how multimodal transport solutions support global supply chains.
- Understand the documentation requirements associated with freight forwarding.
- Recognise the importance of cost, speed, and reliability in selecting transport modes.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the coordination required between carriers, ports, and logistics providers.
- Analyse the challenges faced in freight forwarding, including customs clearance and compliance.
- Apply basic decision‑making skills to select appropriate transport modes for different cargo types.
Health, Safety, and Environmental Awareness in Shipping
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the importance of health and safety standards in shipping and port operations.
- Identify common workplace hazards in cargo handling, storage, and transport.
- Demonstrate knowledge of international regulations and conventions on maritime safety.
- Recognise the role of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe working practices.
- Understand the environmental impact of shipping, including emissions and pollution.
- Analyse the importance of sustainable practices in maritime logistics.
- Apply basic risk assessment techniques to shipping and port activities.
- Appreciate the shared responsibility of employers and employees in maintaining safety and environmental standards.
The ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Shipping Operations and Management equips learners with practical knowledge of maritime logistics, freight forwarding, and compliance. On completion, learners can progress to higher qualifications, explore specialised roles, and access international career opportunities. The following progression routes outline the potential directions available.
Progression to Higher-Level Qualifications
- Advance to the ICTQual Level 3 Certificate in Shipping Operations and Management.
- Progress to the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma for broader knowledge and credits.
- Transition into related qualifications in logistics, supply chain, or transport management.
- Build academic credits that support entry into higher education programmes.
- Prepare for advanced maritime training in port operations or shipping law.
- Gain eligibility for professional development courses in international trade.
- Establish a structured pathway towards Levels 4–7 in Shipping Operations and Management.
- Strengthen academic standing for future postgraduate study in logistics or business.
Career Opportunities in Shipping and Logistics
- Work as a freight forwarding assistant supporting multimodal transport operations.
- Join shipping companies as a documentation or compliance officer.
- Support port operations in cargo handling, warehousing, and distribution.
- Begin roles in customs clearance and international trade facilitation.
- Contribute to logistics hubs and supply chain coordination teams.
- Develop into a shipping operations trainee with responsibility for cargo flow.
- Gain experience in maritime customer service and trade documentation.
- Progress into supervisory roles with further study and workplace experience.
- Build a career foundation for long‑term growth in international shipping.
Pathway to Specialised Maritime Roles
- Train in port and terminal operations with a focus on efficiency and safety.
- Develop expertise in freight forwarding and multimodal transport solutions.
- Specialise in shipping documentation, customs compliance, and trade law.
- Pursue roles in maritime safety, health, and environmental management.
- Gain skills in shipping finance, insurance, and risk management.
- Explore opportunities in sustainable shipping and green logistics.
- Advance into digital shipping and technology‑driven logistics roles.
- Position yourself for consultancy in freight forwarding and maritime operations.
- Build expertise for future leadership in global supply chains.
International Employment Prospects
- Access opportunities in global shipping hubs and logistics centres.
- Work with multinational freight forwarding and logistics companies.
- Join international trade organisations supporting cross‑border operations.
- Contribute to global supply chain management in manufacturing and retail.
- Explore maritime careers in regions with expanding port infrastructure.
- Gain exposure to international shipping regulations and practices.
- Build a career in customs brokerage and international trade facilitation.
- Secure positions in global NGOs and organisations focused on maritime trade.
- Enhance employability for relocation or overseas assignments.
Academic and Professional Development
- Strengthen research skills through higher‑level maritime projects.
- Build academic writing and analytical skills for future study.
- Gain recognition through professional bodies in shipping and logistics.
- Attend international conferences and seminars on maritime trade.
- Publish research or case studies in shipping and logistics journals.
- Network with industry professionals for mentorship and collaboration.
- Develop leadership and management skills for senior roles.
- Engage in continuous professional development (CPD) programmes.
- Position yourself for lifelong learning in global trade and logistics.
Leadership and Management Pathways
- Progress into supervisory roles in port or terminal operations.
- Lead teams in shipping documentation and compliance departments.
- Manage logistics projects involving multimodal transport solutions.
- Oversee risk management and crisis response in shipping operations.
- Take responsibility for financial planning and cost control in logistics.
- Develop into a shipping operations manager with strategic oversight.
- Transition into senior management roles in global logistics firms.
- Build leadership skills for cross‑cultural and international teams.
- Prepare for executive‑level positions in maritime organisations.
Entrepreneurship and Business Opportunities
- Establish a freight forwarding or logistics consultancy business.
- Launch a shipping documentation and compliance support service.
- Develop a start‑up focused on digital shipping solutions.
- Create a niche business in sustainable and green logistics.
- Offer training and development services for shipping professionals.
- Build partnerships with international trade organisations.
- Explore opportunities in e‑commerce logistics and last‑mile delivery.
- Provide advisory services in maritime law and compliance.
- Innovate in technology‑driven shipping platforms and solutions.