Start your exciting career in the international Maritime Shipping Sales Industry

Course Overview:
The Diploma in Maritime Shipping Sales provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the shipping industry, international trade, and sales management within the maritime sector. This programme covers key aspects of shipping operations, logistics, and trade compliance while also equipping learners with essential sales and customer service skills to drive business success.
With a focus on both the operational and commercial dimensions of shipping, this course enables participants to develop industry-specific expertise, enhance their sales and relationship management skills, and improve their professional prospects in maritime trade and logistics.
Course Duration:
Six months Part Time or six weeks Full Time
Part time studies - where you study part time in the evenings and on weekends using our online training program.
Full time studies - when you take time off work to study full time using our online training program.
Recommended study time set aside – for Part Time Studies we would recommend that you would need to set aside 3 to 4 hours a week and for Full Time Studies 12 to 16 hours a week. The time will vary depending on the students original knowledge of the course material.
Course Structure:
• A comprehensive course module in PDF format will be available for download via the e-campus. We are busy developing video versions of the course content to be added to your e-campus.
• Participants may choose to print the course materials for personal use.
• Each week, participants will complete one online exam. Each module includes two exams spaced over two weeks.
Course Evaluation:
• Module Exams: 40% of the final mark. Two online exams for each module must be completed within a set time limit.
• Assignment: 20% of the final mark. A final assignment is to be submitted to the e-Tutor for grading and feedback.
• Final Exam: 40% of the final mark. This online exam covers all course materials and is timed.
Course Modules, Assignment and Final Exam:
The Diploma program is divided into 10 core modules, each of which addresses a crucial aspect of shipping. These modules are as follows:
1. Shipping Terminology: This module introduces participants to essential shipping terms and definitions. Understanding the language of the shipping industry is vital for clear communication, both internally within organisations and externally with clients, partners, and regulatory bodies.
2. International Trade and Maritime Shipping: Participants will explore the role of shipping in international trade, examining how goods are transported across borders and the key factors that influence global trade flows. This module highlights the importance of shipping as a driver of global economic activity.
3. Containerisation: This module delves into the history, evolution, and significance of containerisation in modern shipping. Participants will learn how containerisation has revolutionised cargo transport, improved efficiency, and reduced shipping costs. Topics covered include container types, handling processes, and intermodal transport.
4. Vessels, Cargo Types, and Transport Modes: Students will gain an understanding of the different types of vessels used in shipping, the various cargo categories, and the different modes of transport that connect the global supply chain. The module provides insight into the selection of appropriate vessels and transport modes for specific types of cargo.
5. International Contracts and Payments: This module covers the legal and financial aspects of international shipping transactions. Participants will learn about the structure of shipping contracts, the terms of sales agreements, and the methods of payment typically used in global trade. This knowledge is critical for risk management and ensuring smooth financial operations.
6. International Customs and Shipping Documents: Participants will gain insight into customs regulations, import/export procedures, and the key documents required for international shipping. This module ensures that students are familiar with the documentation needed to comply with global customs requirements and avoid shipping delays.
7. Shipping Role Players: This module introduces the key stakeholders in the shipping industry, including shipping lines, port authorities, freight forwarders, and customs brokers. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of these role players is essential for managing shipping operations and fostering effective collaboration.
8. Incoterms 2020: Participants will explore the International Commercial Terms (Incoterms) 2020, which define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in global trade. This module ensures that students understand how Incoterms impact shipping arrangements, risk transfer, and cost allocation.
9. Customer Service Skills: This module introduces key customer service principles, including developing a customer-centric mindset, effective communication etiquette, handling complaints, managing difficult customers, and avoiding common service mistakes. Participants will also explore the financial impact of poor service, strategies for customer retention, stress management techniques, and emerging trends in customer service technology.
10. Sales and Customer Relationship Management: Focusing on sales and customer relationship management, this module covers the fundamentals of sales and marketing, personal selling techniques, effective customer management, and developing a personalised success plan for long-term career growth.
By completing these modules, participants will acquire a comprehensive knowledge base that empowers them to navigate the complexities of global shipping and the role of a sales representative.
Upon successful completion of the modules, participants will be required to:
• complete an assignment, followed by a
• comprehensive final exam.
Learner Support:
• Online Exams: Participants will receive email notifications for upcoming exams. Each module includes two exams, which are designed to support learning and keep students on track with their Personal Course Plan.
• Personal e-Tutor: Each participant will be assigned a personal e-Tutor, who will provide support and guidance via email.
• Personal Course Plan: Your e-Tutor will communicate with you on a weekly basis (every Monday) to ensure you remain on track with your course program and offer motivation as needed.
• Past Exam Papers: Access to downloadable past exam papers with model answers to support exam preparation (available for the Diploma course only).
• Study Tips for Exams: Download a study timetable from the e-campus and review our study tips to improve exam preparation and performance.
• Fun Merchant Shipping Quiz: Test your knowledge with our fun quiz, giving you a sense of what to expect in your exams.
Our E-Campus Offers:
• Course Portal: Access course notes and complete all exams online via our dedicated course portal. COMING SOON – Video versions of the modules will be added as they are developed.
• Shipping Library: Explore a wealth of important and interesting information relevant to your courses and your career development.
Who Should Attend:
This course is ideal for:
• Professionals working in shipping, logistics, freight forwarding, and international trade
• Individuals looking to enter the maritime shipping industry with a focus on sales and customer management
• Sales and business development executives in the shipping and logistics sector
• Supply chain managers, import/export coordinators, and procurement officers
• Customer service representatives dealing with shipping clients and stakeholders
The Aim of This Course:
The primary aim of this course is to provide participants with a strong foundation in maritime shipping operations and sales management. By combining shipping industry knowledge with essential sales and customer service principles, the course ensures that learners develop the skills required to excel in commercial shipping roles, manage customer relationships effectively, and drive business growth within the industry.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Understand and use key shipping terminology for effective communication in the industry
• Analyse the role of maritime shipping in international trade and its economic impact
• Explain the significance of containerisation in modern cargo transportation and supply chain efficiency
• Identify different vessel types, cargo categories, and transport modes, selecting the most appropriate options for shipping needs
• Navigate the legal and financial aspects of international shipping, including contracts and payment methods
• Comprehend customs regulations and essential shipping documentation required for smooth international trade transactions
• Recognise the roles of key industry stakeholders, including shipping lines, freight forwarders, and customs brokers
• Interpret and apply Incoterms 2020 to shipping contracts, ensuring clarity in cost allocation and risk management
• Develop strong customer service skills, including complaint handling, customer retention strategies, and service excellence
• Apply sales and relationship management techniques to build long-term professional success in the shipping industry
This diploma programme provides a well-rounded education in maritime shipping and sales, ensuring that participants are equipped with both operational knowledge and commercial expertise to thrive in the industry.