CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management
The CPIM credential from ASCM validates expertise in production planning, inventory control, and manufacturing strategy for supply chain professionals.
- Exam fee
- $995–$1,295
- Typical salary
- $70K–$100K
CPIM is valuable for operations planners, inventory managers, and manufacturing professionals who want a recognized credential in production and inventory management. If you’re not focused on supply‑chain operations, another certification may align better with your goals.
What CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management covers
Issued by ASCM (ascm.org), CPIM is the premier operations management credential. Covers production planning, inventory control, and manufacturing strategy.
Key topics covered: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling & Planning, Execution & Control of Operations, Strategic Management of Resources.
Best suited for: Operations planners, inventory managers, and manufacturing professionals.
Common career paths: Production Planner, Inventory Manager, Operations Analyst, Manufacturing Manager.
CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management exam details
Exam domains
- Basics of Supply Chain Management
- Master Planning of Resources
- Detailed Scheduling & Planning
- Execution & Control of Operations
- Strategic Management of Resources
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $995–$1,295
How to prepare for CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the CPIM framework Familiarize yourself with the core areas of supply chain management, master planning, detailed scheduling, execution, and strategic resource management as outlined by ASCM. | Week 1-2 |
| 2 | Deep dive into each domain Study the specific concepts within each topic—production planning, inventory control, and manufacturing strategy—using ASCM study materials and practice cases. | Week 3-5 |
| 3 | Apply concepts hands‑on Work through real‑world scenarios or simulations to reinforce how the topics translate into daily operations for planners and managers. | Week 6-7 |
| 4 | Practice exam questions Complete sample questions and review explanations to gauge readiness and identify any weak areas. | Week 8 |
| 5 | Timed mock exam Take a full‑length practice test under exam conditions to build stamina and confidence before the actual assessment. | Week 9 |
Jobs and salary with CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $70K–$100K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management questions answered
What is the CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management certification?
The CPIM credential from ASCM validates expertise in production planning, inventory control, and manufacturing strategy for supply chain professionals. It is issued by ASCM / APICS and sits in the Supply Chain & Operations field.
Is CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management hard?
CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management is rated Intermediate. It assumes some foundational knowledge or entry-level experience.
How much does the CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $995–$1,295. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with ASCM / APICS before you book.
What salary can I expect with CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management?
Professionals with CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management commonly report pay in the $70K–$100K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to CPIM – Certified in Production and Inventory Management
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CSCP – Certified Supply Chain Professional | ASCM / APICS | Intermediate |
| Six Sigma Green Belt | ASQ / IASSC | Intermediate |
| Six Sigma Black Belt | ASQ / IASSC | Advanced |