A globe with two planes, two trucks and a cargo ship around it

A Career in Logistics: What You Need to Know

Are you interested in a dynamic and fast-paced career?

The logistics field connects businesses and consumers worldwide, ensuring products are delivered efficiently and on time.

Whether you're passionate about supply chain management, transportation, or international trade; a career in logistics offers endless opportunities for growth and development, with an average UK salary of £26,000.

In this blog post, we'll explore:

What logistics is
The different roles within the logistics industry
The skills and qualifications needed to succeed
Career paths and opportunities for advancement
The challenges and rewards of a logistics career
How to get into the logistics industry

What is logistics?

If you don’t really know what logistics is, you’re not alone!

Many people think it sounds like an IT-related profession, or that it’s “just about trucks”, and leave it at that. However, logistics is a rapidly expanding sector and the possibilities for working in this field are unlimited.

Logistics can be summed up as “business on the move”.

If you choose a career in logistics, you could be working in warehousing, distribution (think Amazon!), transport networks, haulage, freight-forwarding, packaging, or supply change management.

You’ll find logistics in business, in production - even in the military.

Why should you consider a career in logistics?

If you’re interested in road, rail, sea, and air supply routes, traffic management, how goods are moved and delivered, how things are packaged and transported - then logistics is the industry for you.

If you like solving puzzles, finding out effective ways of doing things, enjoy calculations and working with processes, you’re the type of candidate that this sector is looking for.

The logistics industry frequently recruits at entry level and promotes quickly to more senior roles, making it easy for you to gain experience and work your way up.

What jobs can you do with a logistics qualification?

There are many different logistics career avenues, including:

Supply Chain Manager - Oversees the entire supply chain process
Logistics Coordinator - Plans and coordinates transportation, warehousing, and distribution
Transport Manager - Manages transportation operations, including fleet management and route optimisation
Warehouse Manager - Oversees warehouse operations, inventory management, and storage facilities
Customs Broker - Facilitates import and export, ensuring compliance with customs regulations
Procurement Manager - Sources and purchases materials and supplies
Inventory Control Specialist - Manages inventory levels
Supply Chain Analyst - Analyses supply chain data to improve processes
Customer Service Representative - Provides support to customers related to logistics and shipping
Operations Manager - Oversees day-to-day operations
Logistics Consultant - Provides expert advice and guidance on logistics strategies

Career progression opportunities in logistics

The logistics industry offers a wealth of opportunities for career progression, both in the UK and globally. As a vital industry in the global supply chain, logistics professionals can climb the career ladder, moving from entry-level roles to senior management positions.

With increasing global trade and e-commerce, there is a constant demand for skilled logistics experts. This presents exciting prospects for those seeking to advance their careers, whether it's specialising in supply chain management, transportation, warehousing, or customs and compliance.

What skills do you need to work in logistics?

Here are some key skills that are essential for a successful career in logistics:

Ability to analyse complex data and identify trends.
Skills in problem-solving and decision-making.
Efficient time management and prioritization.
Meticulous attention to detail.
Effective written and verbal communication.
Ability to interact with diverse teams and stakeholders.
Proficiency in logistics software and systems.
Knowledge of supply chain management principles.
Ability to respond to changing circumstances and unexpected challenges.
Building and maintaining strong relationships with colleagues and clients.
Accuracy in calculations and data analysis.

By developing these skills, you can position yourself for a rewarding career in the field of logistics.

What are the key components of logistics?

Transportation: Moving goods from one location to another, using various modes like road, rail, air, and sea.
Warehousing: Storing goods in warehouses or distribution centres.
Inventory Management: Controlling inventory levels to meet customer demand.
Packaging: Protecting goods during transportation and storage.
Customer Service: Providing excellent customer service, including order tracking and issue resolution.

How to get started in the logistics industry

One of the most effective ways to kickstart your career in logistics is by enrolling in a specialised course. These courses provide you with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to excel in the industry.

By taking a logistics course, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management, inventory control, transportation, and other crucial aspects of logistics operations.

In terms of the best routes into the industry, a college course is the best way, but there are some alternate routes, such as:

Self-Guided Learning: Online courses, tutorials, and industry publications.
Apprenticeships: Gain practical experience and industry insights with a government funded apprenticeship.
Entry-Level Positions: Start with basic roles in logistics companies to learn the ropes.
Networking: Build relationships with professionals in the field to explore opportunities.

Study a Transports and Logistics Course at TMC

There are logistics qualifications you can study in Manchester to make yourself more attractive to recruiters, from Level 1 through to degree qualifications.

Our award winning logistics department has a track record of providing an excellent standard of education.

With the growth in e-commerce and the expansion of Manchester airport’s commercial hub, there’s never been a better time to join this exciting industry.

You can find more information about this expanding sector on TMC’s careers in logistics page and get enrolled with us today.

Visit your campus Careers Hub to speak to a Careers Advisor or email your questions to: careers&welfare@tmc.ac.uk