LICQual Level 3 Diploma in International Trade Shipping UK
International trade is the backbone of the global economy, and shipping is the engine that keeps it moving. Every day, millions of tons of goods cross oceans, connecting producers and consumers across continents. Behind this vast network lies a complex system of logistics, compliance, and financial management that ensures trade flows smoothly and securely. Shipping is not just about transporting cargo—it is about sustaining economies, creating opportunities, and driving growth worldwide.
The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping highlights the importance of building strong foundations in this critical sector. Professionals in international trade must understand shipping regulations, documentation, contracts, and risk management to succeed in today’s competitive environment. As global commerce expands and supply chains become more interconnected, the demand for skilled individuals who can bridge the gap between trade and shipping has never been greater. For learners, mastering international trade and shipping is more than a qualification—it is an opportunity to contribute to the resilience of global commerce and play a vital role in shaping the future of international business.
Program Outline
The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is a structured qualification designed to provide learners with essential knowledge of maritime trade and logistics. Comprising 6 specialized units and worth 60 credits, the program introduces learners to the fundamentals of shipping documentation, international contracts, compliance, and risk management.
This section of the article explains how the diploma equips learners with the ability to understand trade procedures, manage shipping operations, and apply industry practices effectively. It highlights the type of learners the course is aimed at, the skills they will gain, and the career pathways available upon completion. Readers will also discover how this internationally recognized qualification opens opportunities in shipping companies, logistics firms, port authorities, and global trade organizations, making it a valuable credential for anyone aspiring to build a career in international trade – shipping.
Unit Structure
| Qualification | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
| LICQ2201311-1 | Fundamentals of International Trade and Shipping | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201311-2 | Shipping Documentation and Trade Compliance | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201311-3 | Shipping Operations and Cargo Handling Basics | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201311-4 | Introduction to Marine Insurance and Risk | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201311-5 | Trade Finance and Payment Methods in Shipping | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201311-6 | Professional Communication in Trade and Shipping | 10 | 40 |
Who Can Benefit
The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in International Trade – Shipping is designed for individuals who want to enter or progress in the maritime and trade industries. This program is especially valuable for those who face challenges such as understanding shipping documentation, managing contracts, or ensuring compliance with international trade standards. It helps learners gain confidence, improve employability, and prepare for roles where shipping is central to global commerce.
Ideal Learners
- Students aspiring to start a career in international trade – shipping.
- Entry‑level professionals seeking structured training in maritime logistics.
- Shipping company staff who want to strengthen their knowledge of trade procedures.
- Logistics employees preparing for international shipping and compliance roles.
- Port authority staff aiming to expand their expertise in cargo and vessel operations.
- Trade and transport professionals transitioning into maritime careers.
- Career changers looking for an internationally recognized qualification in shipping.
- Ambitious learners who want to develop practical skills for global trade opportunities.
What You’ll Be Able to Do
Unit 1: Fundamentals of International Trade and Shipping
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the role of international trade and shipping in the global economy.
- Identify key stakeholders in global trade, ports, and shipping networks.
- Demonstrate understanding of Incoterms and their impact on trade contracts.
- Apply basic trade and shipping concepts to real‑world business scenarios.
- Evaluate the importance of shipping in supporting global supply chains.
- Recognize how trade policies and agreements influence shipping operations.
Unit 2: Shipping Documentation and Trade Compliance
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of essential shipping documents such as bills of lading and letters of credit.
- Apply compliance standards to ensure accuracy in trade documentation.
- Explain the role of customs regulations and international trade laws.
- Evaluate the importance of documentation in reducing trade disputes.
- Recognize risks associated with incomplete or inaccurate shipping paperwork.
- Strengthen practical skills in preparing and reviewing trade documents.
Unit 3: Shipping Operations and Cargo Handling Basics
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Identify the main processes in port operations and cargo handling.
- Apply basic logistics principles to improve cargo flow efficiency.
- Demonstrate understanding of multimodal transport systems in shipping.
- Evaluate the impact of cargo handling on supply chain performance.
- Recognize international safety standards in cargo operations.
- Recommend strategies to improve efficiency in shipping operations.
Unit 4: Introduction to Marine Insurance and Risk
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the principles of marine insurance and its role in trade.
- Identify different types of marine insurance policies and coverage.
- Apply risk assessment techniques to shipping and cargo operations.
- Demonstrate knowledge of claims handling and settlement procedures.
- Evaluate the importance of insurance in protecting shipping assets.
- Recognize international conventions governing marine insurance practices.
Unit 5: Trade Finance and Payment Methods in Shipping
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the role of trade finance in international shipping transactions.
- Demonstrate knowledge of payment methods such as letters of credit and collections.
- Apply trade finance instruments to support shipping operations.
- Evaluate the importance of secure payment systems in global trade.
- Recognize risks in trade finance and recommend preventive measures.
- Strengthen understanding of financial flows in shipping and logistics.
Unit 6: Professional Communication in Trade and Shipping
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate effective communication with clients, customs, and trade partners.
- Apply professional writing skills to shipping and trade documentation.
- Use negotiation and problem‑solving skills in trade and shipping contexts.
- Evaluate the importance of cultural awareness in international communication.
- Develop strategies to build trust and credibility in global trade.
- Recognize the role of communication in supporting trade and shipping decisions.
