Code of Conduct
Applicability: All CILT Members Generally
1. PREAMBLE
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) is the leading global professional body for the logistics and transport sector. This Code sets the benchmark for ethical conduct, integrity, and professionalism required of all members, regardless of grade or geographic location. By maintaining membership, individuals agree to be bound by this Code, ensuring the protection of the public interest and the reputation of the profession. Acceptance of this Code is a condition of membership under Bye-law 22.
2. INTEGRITY AND PERSONAL CONDUCT
2.1 Ethical Standards: Members shall act with honesty, probity, and transparency in all professional dealings. They shall not engage in, facilitate, or conceal any fraudulent, corrupt, or illegal activities.
2.2 Conflict of Interest: Members must proactively identify and declare any personal, financial, or professional interests that may compromise their judgment. Where a conflict exists, members must recuse themselves from the relevant decision-making process.
2.3 Protection of Reputation: Members shall not engage in any conduct, whether in a professional or private capacity, that brings the Institute or the logistics and transport profession into disrepute.
2.4 Digital and Social Media: Members shall exercise professional judgment in all digital communications. Members must not post, share, or endorse content that is discriminatory, harassing, or libelous, particularly when identifying themselves as members of the Institute or using the post-nominals (MILT, CMILT, FCILT) as permitted under Bye-laws 19–20.
2.5 Data Protection and Privacy: Members shall comply with applicable data-protection and privacy and cyber security laws and Institute policies when handling personal or confidential information. This includes secure management of digital assets, responsible use of data and prompt reporting of any data breaches.
2.6 Institute Values: Members will uphold the Institute’s values in interactions with employees, representatives, fellow members and stakeholders.
3. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE
3.1 Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Members have a duty to maintain and enhance their professional knowledge and skills. They shall actively engage in CPD to ensure they remain competent in a rapidly evolving global industry.
3.2 Scope of Capability: Members shall only undertake work or provide advice that they are competent to perform by virtue of their education, training, and experience.
3.3 Compliance with Laws: Members must comply with the laws, regulations, and bye-laws of the countries and territories in which they operate.
3.4 Competition and Anti-Trust: Members shall strictly adhere to anti-competition and anti-trust laws. CILT meetings, forums, or platforms must never be used to discuss pricing, market allocation, bid-rigging, or sensitive commercial terms that could restrict free trade.
4. RESPONSIBILITY TO THE PROFESSION AND COMMUNITY
4.1 Public Welfare: Members shall have due regard for public safety, health, and environmental sustainability in the execution of their professional duties.
4.2 Inclusion and Respect: Members must treat all colleagues, employees, and stakeholders with respect and dignity. The Institute has zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, or bullying.
4.3 Mentorship: Senior members (Fellows and Chartered Members) generally have an obligation to mentor and support the next generation of professionals, fostering the growth and continuity of the Institute.
5. DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE & REPORTING
5.1 Duty to Report: Members are encouraged to report significant breaches of this Code to the Institute. Reports will be handled with confidentiality and due process.
5.2 Reporting Channels: Complaints shall be submitted in writing to the relevant Territorial Organisation or Institute Branch in accordance with the Delegation Agreement, with copy to the International Secretary-General when appropriate. Anonymous complaints may be received and assessed for preliminary triage. Formal proceedings will require sufficient corroborating evidence to meet due process requirements, which includes the reasonable provision of timely notices and the opportunity for representation to any party involved in an investigation, whether complainant, respondent, or witness
5.3 Investigation and Decision-maker: Complaints will be investigated by the committee or body designated by Council of Trustees under Bye-law 40 or by the
relevant Territorial Organisation under Bye-law 44, following procedures set by Council. The member shall receive at least 14 days’ written notice of any meeting where conduct is to be considered, including date, place or link to virtual meeting, and a summary of the allegations, and may make representations personally or through a representative.
5.4 Sanctions: Where a breach is proven, sanctions may include reprimand, suspension, or removal from membership, as permitted by Bye-law 22.
5.5 Appeal: The member has a right of appeal to Council (Bye-law 23) on membership matters. The Council’s decision shall be final.
5.6 Territorial Responsibilities: Territorial Organisations shall use all reasonable endeavours to ensure compliance with this Code, consistent with Bye-law 22 and the Delegation Agreement (Bye-law 44.)
6. PRIMACY OF REGULATION
6.1 Interaction with Local Codes: Where a Territory has its own Code of Conduct, members are bound by both.
6.2 Conflict Resolution: Where conflict arises, the Charter prevails over the Bye-laws, and the Bye-laws prevail over this Code and any local regulations. In case of divergence between local codes and this International Code, the stricter obligation applies, provided it is not contrary to applicable local law.
6.3 International Governance: In matters regarding the removal of international status or Chartered grades, the International Bye-laws and this Code shall take precedence over local regulations.
7. REVIEW
This Code will be subject to periodic review to reflect changes in law, technology and professional standards.
Approved by the Council of Trustees and valid from 31st March 2026.