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Professional diploma · Cargo and logistics

Professional Diploma in Freight Transport and Containers

This professional diploma gives you a complete and up-to-date view of global logistics and efficient supply chain management. You will work with container trades, mode selection, documents and Incoterms, rounded off with cost calculation and key indicators.

100% online800 hours8 modulesTaught in EnglishEnrol any time

What is this programme?

This professional diploma gives you a complete and up-to-date view of global logistics. It covers supply chain management from packaging and stowage to multimodal transport and customs clearance. It also addresses international regulations, cost optimisation and risk reduction, with the aim of preparing you for the challenges of international trade and improving the profitability of your operations.

What makes the programme different: a practical approach built on real case studies and simulations; management tools, including software and platforms for planning and tracking shipments; and up-to-date content covering recent trends and regulations.

Programme highlights

  • Logistics optimisation: command of the supply chain and reduction of operating costs.
  • Integrated container management: good practice in handling, storage and security.
  • Regulation: up-to-date knowledge of national and international freight transport rules.
  • Technology: solutions for tracking, tracing and managing cargo efficiently.
  • Practical cases and simulations for strategic decision-making in real scenarios.
  • Professional development as a specialist in freight transport and containers.

Study plan

01Maritime Freight Transport100 h
The importance of maritime transport in world trade. Types of trade: bulk, general cargo and containers. Main routes and ports. The actors in the logistics chain. Market trends. Containerisation and globalisation. East-west and north-south routes. The major hub ports.
02The Container and Containerisation100 h
Container types and dimensions. Refrigerated and special containers. Shipping lines and alliances. Regular liner services. Empty equipment management. Container inspection and repair. Open-top and flat-rack containers.
03Container Terminals100 h
Loading and unloading operations. Equipment: STS cranes, RTGs and straddle carriers. Yard planning. Terminal operating systems (TOS). Terminal productivity and automation. Stowage planning at the terminal. Management of refrigerated containers (reefers) in the terminal.
04Stowage and Cargo Securing100 h
The stowage plan. Verified gross mass (VGM). Lashing and securing. Dangerous goods and the IMDG Code. Prevention of damage and container losses. Stowage of heavy cargo and lashing of special cargo.
05Documentation and International Trade100 h
The bill of lading. Incoterms. Manifest and customs documentation. Documentary credit. Document digitalisation, electronic documents and the electronic bill of lading (eBL). Certificates of origin. Cargo insurance.
06Customs and Port Logistics100 h
Customs procedures and import and export clearance. The single window. Inspections and controls. Free zones and bonded warehouses. Authorised Economic Operator. Container scanning controls. Customs taxation.
07Intermodal Transport100 h
Port-rail-road connections. Dry ports. Short-sea shipping. Last-mile management. Carbon footprint. Inland waterway container transport and motorways of the sea. Empty container logistics.
08Costs, Freight Rates and Management100 h
Structure of freight rates and surcharges, including bunker surcharges. Contracting with shipping lines and freight forwarders. Freight negotiation. Management of incidents, claims, demurrage and detention. Logistics indicators. Final project: a logistics plan for a container shipment.

Duration and format

800hours in total
8modules of 100 hours
100%online, at your own pace
Openenrolment all year round

At 10 hours a week you would finish in about 80 weeks; at 20 hours a week, in about 40.

What you will learn

  • Optimise the logistics management of transport.
  • Master transport regulations and documentation.
  • Manage the global supply chain efficiently.
  • Implement security and risk prevention strategies.
  • Coordinate the movement of goods and containers effectively.
  • Evaluate and select the best transport and packaging options.

Career outcomes

  • Logistics and transport technician: route planning, fleet management and supply chain optimisation.
  • Multimodal transport operator: coordination of land, sea and air shipments and negotiation with suppliers.
  • International trade specialist: customs documentation, transport legislation and risk management.
  • Warehouse and distribution centre manager: inventory organisation, stock control and efficiency improvement.
  • Customs agent: document processing, cargo inspection and regulatory compliance.
  • Operations manager at container terminals: stowage planning, equipment management and safe handling.
  • Logistics and transport consultant: process analysis, tailored solutions and improved profitability.
  • Sales representative in transport and logistics companies: customer acquisition, contract negotiation and market development.

Entry requirements

  • Academic or professional profile: a higher vocational qualification in Transport and Logistics, International Trade or a similar field, or demonstrable professional experience in freight transport and/or container management.
  • Specific knowledge: courses or seminars on land, sea or air transport, the supply chain and customs regulations are valued.
  • Documentation: an up-to-date CV, a copy of your qualification or academic certificate (if applicable), an identity document and an optional letter of interest.
  • Skills: analytical ability, organisation, communication and teamwork, and user-level IT skills (spreadsheet and word processor).

How to enrol

Enrol online

Complete your enrolment on this page, or apply through admissions if you prefer to talk to us first.

Receive your access

We send you the details to enter the virtual campus and start the programme.

Study at your pace

Work through the modules when it suits you and complete the programme from anywhere in the world.

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