ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping

The ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is a comprehensive 30‑credit training programme designed to prepare learners for success in the fast‑growing global shipping and logistics industry. This qualification provides a strong balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making it suitable for freshers seeking to enter the sector as well as professionals aiming to advance their careers in international trade.

Learners will gain in‑depth understanding of shipping operations, trade compliance, cargo management, and multimodal transport systems. The programme also introduces essential principles of supply chain and logistics management, ensuring learners are equipped with the knowledge to operate confidently in international markets. With its industry‑relevant focus, the diploma develops practical skills in documentation, customer service, and regulatory compliance—competencies that are highly valued by employers worldwide.

By completing this diploma, learners will be well positioned for career opportunities in shipping agencies, freight forwarding companies, port operations, and logistics service providers. The qualification also supports progression into supervisory and specialised roles, helping learners build long‑term careers in global trade and maritime services.

Key benefits of this programme include enhanced employability, professional recognition, and a clear pathway to higher vocational qualifications. With its structured 30‑credit framework, the ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping provides learners with the confidence, skills, and industry knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive international trade environment.

Course overview

International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping

To enrol in ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment.
  • Educational Background: Learners are expected to have completed a Level 2 qualification in International Trade, Shipping, Logistics, or a related subject. Alternatively, a general secondary education background with strong interest in global trade and shipping is acceptable.
  • Professional Experience: No formal industry experience is required. However, learners with prior exposure to logistics, freight forwarding, or customer service roles will benefit from the programme’s practical focus.
  • English Proficiency: As the programme is delivered in English, learners should demonstrate competence in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Centres may assess this through internal evaluations, evidence of prior study, or equivalent qualifications.
  • Additional Requirements: Learners should demonstrate motivation to develop professional skills in international trade and shipping. Access to a digital device and reliable internet connection may be required if the programme is delivered in blended or online formats.

This qualification, the ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. International Shipping Operations and Documentation
  2. Maritime Safety, Security, and Risk Awareness
  3. Freight Forwarding and Multimodal Transport Systems
  4. Warehousing, Distribution, and Inventory Management
  5. Customer Service and Quality Standards in Shipping
  6. Introduction to Global Supply Chain Strategy

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping:

International Shipping Operations and Documentation

  • Understand the structure and functions of international shipping operations.
  • Recognise the importance of accurate documentation in global trade transactions.
  • Identify key documents such as bills of lading, commercial invoices, and certificates of origin.
  • Demonstrate awareness of customs procedures and international trade regulations.
  • Understand the role of shipping lines, agents, and intermediaries in trade operations.
  • Recognise the impact of errors or delays in documentation on cargo movement.
  • Develop skills in preparing, reviewing, and managing shipping documents.
  • Appreciate the importance of compliance and transparency in shipping operations.

Maritime Safety, Security, and Risk Awareness

  • Understand international maritime safety standards and conventions.
  • Recognise the importance of security protocols in ports and shipping operations.
  • Identify common risks in maritime transport, including piracy, accidents, and cargo loss.
  • Demonstrate awareness of risk management strategies in shipping and logistics.
  • Understand the role of international organisations in promoting maritime safety.
  • Recognise the importance of emergency preparedness and response procedures.
  • Develop awareness of occupational health and safety in maritime environments.
  • Appreciate the link between safety, security, and sustainable shipping practices.

Freight Forwarding and Multimodal Transport Systems

  • Understand the role of freight forwarders in coordinating international trade.
  • Recognise the principles of multimodal transport and its benefits for global logistics.
  • Identify the responsibilities of freight forwarders in documentation and cargo handling.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the integration of sea, air, road, and rail transport.
  • Understand the challenges and opportunities in multimodal logistics.
  • Recognise the importance of efficiency, cost‑effectiveness, and reliability in freight forwarding.
  • Develop awareness of digital tools and tracking systems in multimodal transport.
  • Appreciate the contribution of freight forwarding to global supply chain efficiency.

Warehousing, Distribution, and Inventory Management

  • Understand the role of warehousing in supporting international trade and logistics.
  • Recognise the principles of inventory management and stock control.
  • Identify different types of warehouses and their functions in supply chains.
  • Demonstrate awareness of distribution strategies and their impact on customer satisfaction.
  • Understand the importance of efficiency, accuracy, and safety in warehouse operations.
  • Recognise the role of technology in modern warehousing and inventory systems.
  • Develop awareness of cost control and optimisation in distribution networks.
  • Appreciate the contribution of warehousing to overall supply chain performance.

Customer Service and Quality Standards in Shipping

  • Understand the importance of customer service in shipping and logistics operations.
  • Recognise the role of effective communication in meeting customer expectations.
  • Identify common service challenges in international shipping and logistics.
  • Demonstrate awareness of strategies for resolving customer complaints and disputes.
  • Understand the importance of accuracy, reliability, and timeliness in service delivery.
  • Recognise the role of cultural awareness in international customer interactions.
  • Develop awareness of quality standards and performance measurement in shipping.
  • Appreciate the link between customer service, reputation, and business growth.

Introduction to Global Supply Chain Strategy

  • Understand the concept of global supply chains and their role in international trade.
  • Recognise the strategic importance of supply chain management for business success.
  • Identify the key components of global supply chain networks.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the challenges of managing cross‑border supply chains.
  • Understand the impact of globalisation, technology, and sustainability on supply chains.
  • Recognise the importance of collaboration and integration across supply chain partners.
  • Develop awareness of risk management and resilience in global supply chains.
  • Appreciate the role of innovation and continuous improvement in supply chain strategy.

The ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping provides learners with a strong foundation in shipping operations, trade compliance, freight forwarding, and supply chain management. By completing this 30‑credit programme, learners gain practical skills and professional knowledge that open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. The diploma also creates clear vocational pathways for learners who wish to advance into supervisory roles, specialised training, or higher‑level professional qualifications within the global shipping and logistics sector.

  • Progress to higher vocational qualifications in international trade, shipping, logistics, and supply chain management.
  • Access career opportunities in shipping agencies, freight forwarding companies, port operations, and logistics service providers.
  • Take on roles such as shipping coordinator, logistics officer, freight forwarding executive, or customs compliance assistant.
  • Build the skills needed for supervisory responsibilities in documentation, cargo operations, and customer service.
  • Develop a pathway towards specialised training in maritime safety, multimodal transport, and trade regulations.
  • Strengthen employability in international markets by demonstrating competence in shipping and logistics practices.
  • Enhance transferable skills such as communication, problem‑solving, and teamwork for use across global trade environments.
  • Prepare for long‑term career growth in shipping, logistics, and supply chain management through structured vocational learning.
  • Establish a professional profile that supports advancement into leadership and management roles within the maritime and logistics industries.

FAQs

This diploma is designed for learners who want to build advanced knowledge of international trade and shipping. It is ideal for freshers aiming to establish a career in logistics, as well as professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in shipping operations, trade compliance, freight forwarding, and supply chain management. Learners looking for a recognised qualification to support career growth in the global shipping industry will benefit greatly from this programme.

Learners who complete this diploma can pursue roles such as shipping coordinator, freight forwarding executive, logistics officer, customs compliance assistant, or port operations supervisor. The qualification also supports progression into specialised areas such as maritime safety, multimodal transport, and supply chain strategy. With its international focus, the diploma enhances employability in shipping agencies, freight forwarding companies, logistics providers, and global trade organisations.

The ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is a 30 Credit hours training programme designed to be completed in full-time study over this period, with a focus on both theoretical learning and practical application.

ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual International Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping consist of 6 mandatory assessments. These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass all assessments to achieve this qualification.