Logistics and Warehousing Career Guide

 

Potential Roles in Logistics and Warehousing

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This career guide will focus on three job roles within the warehousing and logistics industry, ranging from entry-level to senior positions. For information on the transport of goods, see the Driving and Transportation Career Guide.

Warehouse picker packers, sometimes known as pick packers, are tasked with ‘picking’ customer goods and ‘packing’ them up ready for delivery. In a picker packer job, you’ll also be expected to help with the day-to-day duties involved in warehousing, including cleaning, tidying and loading and unloading stock deliveries.

Warehouse operatives can work in any type of warehouse and the exact job role depends on the type of industry the warehouse serves. In a supermarket warehouse, you might be asked to clean and organise food containers, whereas you may be tasked with processing returns in a clothing retailer warehouse. Some warehouse operative jobs involve specialist work, such as working in a chilled environment or operating a forklift truck.

Warehouse & logistics managers oversee the warehousing and logistics operations of a company. In a warehouse and logistics manager job, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the storage and distribution of stock in your company. You’ll also be managing a team of staff involved in the daily running of the warehouse and the HGV and LGV drivers who transport goods.

 

Salary and Career Progression

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Warehouse picker packers in both the UK and US tend to get paid hourly. The salary will depend on several factors such as location, experience, Industry and company size. The average hourly salary in the UK tends to range from £8.50 to £11.00 per hour and $11.00 to $15.00 in the US. Full-time employees typically earn more than part-time employees and quite often get paid more for night shifts compared to day shifts. Some companies also offer benefit packages that can add to the overall compensation. As a picker packer, there is limited scope for higher earnings, but there may be an opportunity to progress into a more senior role, as a warehouse operative or in training to operate machinery.

Warehouse operatives typically get paid on an hourly rate in both the UK and US. The average salary can vary based on several factors such as experience, location, company size and the specific industry. The UK typically pays between £8.50 and £11.00 per hour while the US pays an average of $12.00 to $15.00 per hour. Larger organisations tend to have higher compensation packages and night shift workers often get paid more, although this is not guaranteed and depends on several factors such as lower staffing, demand and competition. Roles that require additional skills, like operating machines and driving specialist vehicles, can pay more than standard warehouse operative positions.

Warehouse & logistics managers in the UK tend to earn around £30,000 to £70,000 per year. The salary can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, location, education, certifications, company size and industry. The US typically pays from $45,000 for an entry level position and up to $120,000 for a senior level position. Similar to the UK these salaries can depend on experience, location, industry, company size and profitability. More complex or demanding roles may come with higher pay.

 

Qualifications, Education and Experience

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Warehouse picker packers are usually trained on the job and qualifications aren’t always mandatory in both the UK and US. Generally, these positions do not require formal education beyond a highschool diploma or equivalent. Possessing certain skills and qualities can significantly improve your chances of landing a job. Having relevant experience and certifications (such as in forklift operation or warehouse management systems) may also enhance job prospects.

Warehouse operatives in the UK do not need formal education, however some employers may prefer GCSEs in Maths and English. In the US some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent, while others accept relevant work experience. Candidates should be physically fit and capable of performing tasks such as lifting, bending, carrying and moving heavy items.

Warehouse and logistics managers hold a senior position and are usually expected to have achieved A’ Levels as a minimum. In a competitive jobs market, employers may even ask for a degree, particularly for higher paid or specialist roles, for example, in import/export logistics. As well as academic achievements, employers also value industry qualifications. NVQs and other qualifications in Logistics, Transport or Supply Chain management are desirable.

 

Skills

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Warehouse Picker Packers need patience, diligence and attention to detail to stay focused on the work, which can get repetitive. You’ll need a strong work ethic and physical fitness to be on your feet all day, working at a speed to meet targets.

Warehouse Operatives need to be self-motivated with a good work ethic. You’ll be expected to work within a team and liaise with senior and junior staff, so good communication skills are important. Work can often be physically demanding, particularly if moving large or heavy items, so good fitness and stamina are beneficial.

Warehouse and logistics managers’ required qualifications can vary depending on the company, specific industry and role requirements. The UK and US share many similarities. In the UK, a bachelor’s degree is preferred in business, supply chain management, logistics or a related field. Professional certifications such as Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) or Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) can enhance a candidate’s qualifications and demonstrate expertise in the field, although this is not always required. Similar to the UK, the US requires a bachelor’s degree in business, logistics, supply chain management or a related field however some employers may require a master’s degree for higher level positions. Certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or Certified Professional in Supply Chain Management (CPSM) are recognised and can also enhance a candidate’s qualifications. In both the UK and US candidates are expected to have Leadership and communication skills, experience, knowledge of industry regulations and technology and analytical skills.

 

Working Hours

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Warehouse picker packers are often expected to work casual, part-time or flexible hours. Temporary contracts are common at peak times of the year, particularly in the lead up to Christmas.

Warehouse operatives often work shifts, covering mornings, afternoons and nights. Contracts can be full time, part time, or on a casual basis.

Warehouse and logistics managers typically work shifts to oversee warehouse operations around the clock. Managerial roles are usually permanent full time contracted hours.

 

Notable Locations

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Logistics and warehousing roles are widespread across the UK and the US. Major cities in the UK such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Bristol, Sheffield, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Cardiff have large concentrations of warehouses and distribution centers due to their population density, transportation infrastructure, and proximity to ports and airports. The UK has a well-developed logistics network with numerous hubs strategically located across the country. DP World London Gateway, Port of Immingham, Southampton, Birmingham and Manchester are just a few of many logistics hubs in the UK. The US boasts a vast and dynamic logistics industry, offering abundant opportunities for Warehouse & Logistics Managers across various regions. Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Miami, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Seattle have extensive logistics networks. Cities with large e-commerce operations like Seattle (Amazon), Indianapolis (FedEx), and Columbus (L Brands) see significant demand for logistics talent. States like Texas, Florida, and Arizona are experiencing rapid population growth and economic development, attracting logistics investment and job opportunities. These locations represent just a few examples of notable areas where warehouse and logistics manager roles are prevalent.

 

Notable Companies

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The logistics and warehousing industry is vast and encompasses various companies, from large multinational corporations to regional players across the UK and US. The following companies are recognised for their significant presence in the logistics and warehousing industry:

UK

• DP World
• XPO Logistics
• DHL Supply Chain
• Wincanton
• Ceva Logistics
• Amazon
• Sainsbury’s
• Tesco
• Marks & Spencer
• Asda

US

• Amazon
• FedEx
• UPS
• XPO Logistics
• J.B. Hunt Transport Services
• Schneider National
• Walmart
• Target
• Home Depot
• Costco

 

Next Steps

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If you’re interested in a career in warehousing and logistics, register your details to receive relevant job alerts straight to your inbox. In the meantime, refine your job search, update your CV and prepare for interviews with The Ultimate Jobseeker Guide.