Skills: Your Roadmap to Succeed in the Freight Industry
The freight and logistics industry offers a world of opportunity — but success starts with the right skills. Whether you're just starting out or aiming for leadership, there’s a clear path to grow your career.
Start with a Strong Foundation
Most careers begin with a Matric or High School Diploma — the essential first step into entry-level roles like administration, warehousing, or driving.
From there, a National Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in logistics, supply chain management, or related fields can open doors to roles like:
- Transport Manager
- Logistician
- Freight Forwarder
- Fleet Manager
- Customs Broker
- Transport Planner
- Truck Driver
- Machine Operator
What Skills Do You Need?
- Supply chain basics (e.g. Incoterms, trade documents)
- Industry regulations & compliance
- Transport planning & freight systems (e.g. TMS)
- Risk management
- Data analysis
- Financial management
- Advanced driving and technical skills
- MS Office, especially Excel
Occupational Skills by Job Type
Each job level requires a mix of technical, digital, and soft skills:
- Managers: Leadership, agility, innovation, business finance
- Professionals: Writing, ethics, IT/simulator skills, regulatory knowledge
- Technicians: Problem-solving, teamwork, supervisory skills
- Admin Workers: Business writing, professionalism, organisation
- Sales & Service Workers: Customer service, computer literacy, solution selling
- Trades & Operators: Driving skills, digital literacy, numeracy & literacy
- Entry-level/Elementary Roles: Applied learning, soft skills, basic computer skills
Ready to get moving?
Download our Essential Freight Skills Roadmap and start building the skills you need for a successful career in logistics.
