Could a career in logistics show you the way?

When you think of the word "logistics", you might not know what it means? If you do, do you think of lorries, warehouses and deliveries? That’s only one part of the story of one of the biggest industries out there.

So, lets not delay! Here are 7 top tips on how a career in logistics could deliver for you…

What is logistics?

Logistics is all about making sure the right things get to the right place at the right time – whether that’s something as simple as a new phone charger arriving before your battery runs out, or something as life-saving as delivering blood samples to hospitals across the country. Behind the scenes, there’s a whole team of people, with a whole range of skillsets, making it all happen. Nothing moves without logistics – it’s critical to the world around us.

In this fast-paced, ever-changing sector, there’s room for all kinds of talent. From problem-solvers to planners, to tech lovers and trailblazers, the range of roles on offer is wildly diverse and accessible to all. Generation Logistics is all about helping find the right career path for you.

1. Variety (It’s the spice of life!)

Like we say, there’s much more to logistics than lorries, warehouses and deliveries. Love technology? Check out designing programmes that coordinate complicated deliveries, or data analysis about when and where goods have been used, and the trends in purchasing. Enjoy planning? Try looking into route optimisation or stock forecasting. Good with people? Human resources, project management or even sustainability roles could be a great fit.

Whether you’re wanting a hands-on role or something behind-the-scenes, the career options are far more diverse than most people realise.

2. No qualifications, no drama

Formal qualifications aren’t required for many logistics roles. Instead, employers prefer personal skills, a keen interest in the industry or role, and an eagerness to get involved. That means you can avoid those hefty university fees and hit the ground running.

Apprenticeships and on-the-job training are what logistics is all about, so you can earn while you learn, and gain qualifications as you go. Many people even start straight after their GCSEs or A Levels and in terms of promotions, starting at the bottom is often seen as a benefit as you know more about the business and can share that knowledge as you progress.

3. It’s about going with the flow

9 to 5 not for you? One of the industry’s best perks is the high level of flexibility it offers. Because goods move around the clock, there’s often freedom in when and how you work: early shifts, night shifts, part-time roles or hybrid jobs with remote working – the choice is yours.

Take a Logistics Coordinator, for example. They’re responsible for overseeing the flow of items across supply chains and end delivery, and they often work a 4-on, 4-off pattern. That's a 4 day working week, and a 4 day non-working weekend, each and every week! So maximum flex while doing a job that’s exciting and lots of fun.

4. Hit the road, literally

It’s no wonder logistics is big on travel. After all, the industry is all about connecting goods and people with people and places; basically, connecting everything with everywhere!

Global shipping routes, international suppliers, overseas trade – there are roles in this field that involve plenty of travel, both in the UK and abroad. Even if you’re working remotely, you could be travelling or working with people from all over the world.

Even better, more and more logistics companies are investing heavily in sustainable technologies such as electric vehicle fleets and renewable energies like wind and solar, as the whole industry is committed to achieving a Net Zero future. All of which helps minimise the environmental impacts of that travel.

5. Get rewarded

Roles in logistics can pay well.

Take drivers, for example. Not only is this staple role varied and exciting, it commands salaries that start at £33k and progress up to £60k for specialist positions like tanker drivers or those moving highly complex loads like wind turbines or stage equipment for festivals.

But even in entry level positions, reward and recognition is key, and because the industry is always growing, there are loads of opportunities to progress. People who start out in entry level positions can end up managing teams, designing new systems, or leading entire projects – and in some cases, eventually becoming the CEO.

6. Stay ahead of the game

When it comes to innovation and new ideas, logistics is always evolving and finding smarter, faster solutions to problems. New technologies are being introduced more rapidly than ever before, with AI, drones and electric vehicles ever more central to the future of the sector. Logistics is often the sector that trials the technology of tomorrow – think robots, self-driving vehicles or new ways to power things using waste products like cooking oil.

If you’re excited about technology and the future, logistics is the place to be.

7. There’s no better time than now

So, there you have it. Logistics offers flexible hours, solid pay, and exciting career opportunities, plus loads of other perks. Surprised more people haven’t looked into it? So are we! Research suggests that up to 90% of people have never even considered a role in logistics. That creates a huge opportunity to find a stable, future-proof career in a fast-growing field. Fresh, young talent is exactly what the industry needs, and there’s never been a better time to put yourself right in the middle of it.

Want to find out more? Head here to start your logistics journey.