Logistics Coordinator vs. Logistics Manager: What Are the Differences?

A logistics coordinator and logistics manager are both responsible for the smooth flow of operations within a company. If you’re interested in a career in logistics, you may be wondering what the difference is between these two job titles. In this article, we compare and contrast the duties of a logistics coordinator and a logistics manager, and we provide information on the skills and experience you’ll need for each role.

What is a Logistics Coordinator?

A Logistics Coordinator is responsible for the coordination and organization of transportation resources within a company. They work with managers, vendors and drivers to ensure that shipments are delivered on time and within budget. Logistics Coordinators track shipments, create shipping schedules and solve any problems that may arise during transport. They also develop relationships with vendors to get the best rates and services for their company. Logistics Coordinators typically have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.

What is a Logistics Manager?

Logistics Managers are responsible for the coordination and management of company resources to ensure that goods and services are delivered to customers in a timely and efficient manner. They develop and oversee logistics plans that consider cost, time, risk and other factors. Logistics Managers work with internal and external partners to ensure that all resources are being used effectively and that delivery schedules are being met. They also develop contingency plans to address potential delays or problems. Logistics Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in business, logistics or a related field.

Logistics Coordinator vs. Logistics Manager

Here are the main differences between a logistics coordinator and a logistics manager.

Job Duties

One of the main differences between a logistics coordinator and a logistics manager is the type of duties they perform. A logistics coordinator may only manage logistical tasks within a specific department. For example, a logistics coordinator working in shipping and receiving may only work with employees in that department to ensure shipments arrive on time and are properly received and processed. Their job duties may include creating shipment schedules, coordinating transportation methods and communicating with vendors and suppliers.

Logistics managers typically have broader job responsibilities than logistics coordinators. While coordinators may focus primarily on a single department, such as shipping and receiving, a logistics manager may oversee multiple departments that rely on logistical services, such as warehousing and transportation. This means that logistics managers may oversee all aspects of a company’s transportation and shipping needs, including creating routes and setting standards for employee performance.

Job Requirements

Logistics coordinators typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management or another related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many logistics coordinators pursue certifications through the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (ASTL) or the International Society of Logistics (SOLE). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use logistics software and other tools they might need on the job.

Logistics managers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management or another related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many logistics managers pursue certifications through the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (ASTL) or the International Society of Logistics (SOLE). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use logistics software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

Logistics coordinators typically work in an office environment, but they may also travel to different locations. They often spend their days working on logistics software and communicating with clients about shipping needs. Logistics coordinators usually work full time during regular business hours.

Logistics managers can work in a variety of environments depending on the industry they’re in. For example, if they work for a manufacturing company, they might spend most of their time at the factory floor overseeing operations. If they work for a transportation company, they might spend more time traveling between locations. Logistics managers usually work full time during regular business hours.

Skills

Both logistics coordinators and logistics managers use similar skills, such as organization, multitasking and time management. They also both need to have an understanding of the transportation industry and how to coordinate shipments. However, there are some key differences in the skills they use on a daily basis.

Logistics coordinators typically need to have strong customer service skills. This is because they often work closely with clients to ensure that their needs are being met and that shipments are arriving on time. They also need to be able to effectively communicate with other members of their team, including drivers, warehouse workers and dispatchers.

Logistics managers usually need to have more advanced problem-solving skills. This is because they are often responsible for resolving issues that arise during the shipping process. They also need to be able to make decisions quickly and efficiently in order to keep the shipping process running smoothly. In addition, logistics managers often need to have strong leadership skills in order to manage and motivate their team.

Salary

Logistics coordinators earn an average salary of $49,124 per year, while logistics managers earn an average salary of $76,341 per year. The average salary for both positions may vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the employee has prior to taking the job.