What Does a Logistics Coordinator Do?
Find out what a logistics coordinator does, how to get this job, and what it takes to succeed as a logistics coordinator.
Logistics coordinators are responsible for managing the flow of goods and services through their organization. They oversee the process of getting products from supplier to customer, ensuring that everything arrives on time and in good condition.
Logistics coordinators may also be responsible for overseeing other aspects of logistics operations, such as inventory management or shipping procedures. In this way, they can help ensure that the company’s supply chain is running smoothly.
Logistics Coordinator Job Duties
A logistics coordinator typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Scheduling deliveries based on factors such as weather conditions, traffic patterns, and time of day
- Tracking inventory levels to ensure that supply does not run out before the next shipment arrives
- Coordinating with vendors to schedule deliveries of materials to work sites or storage facilities
- Ensuring that all materials are delivered in a timely manner by coordinating with drivers and dispatchers
- Coordinating with shipping companies to arrange for transport of goods across international borders in compliance with regulations
- Maintaining inventory records to ensure that items are not oversold or understocked
- Communicating with suppliers to coordinate shipment of new products or materials
- Managing inventory levels by purchasing materials as needed and ensuring that they are stored properly
- Coordinating with partners to ensure that orders are processed promptly and accurately
Logistics Coordinator Salary & Outlook
Logistics coordinators’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the size and industry of the company. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of bonuses.
- Median Annual Salary: $41,500 ($19.95/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary: $70,500 ($33.89/hour)
The employment of logistics coordinators is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.
Logistics coordinators will be needed to help companies improve their supply chains and distribution networks. As e-commerce continues to grow, logistics coordinators will be needed to oversee the shipment of goods to customers across the country.
Logistics Coordinator Job Requirements
There are several qualifications required to obtain a position as a logistics coordinator. They include:
Education: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration or a related field is often a requirement to become a logistics coordinator. Some employers may prefer a master’s degree in logistics or a related field.
Training & Experience: Most logistics coordinators receive on-the-job training, which may last for a few weeks to a month. This training may include shadowing a current logistics coordinator or logistics manager, or it may include performing duties under supervision until they are comfortable enough to complete tasks on their own.
Certifications & Licenses: Certifications are not usually a requirement for a logistics coordinator role, but they can help you compete against other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to your career.
Logistics Coordinator Skills
Logistics coordinators need the following skills in order to be successful:
Communication: Communication is the act of conveying information through verbal or nonverbal means. As a logistics coordinator, you may be responsible for communicating with suppliers, customers and other logistics team members. Effective communication can help you to convey information clearly and to build relationships with others.
Organization: A logistics coordinator needs to be able to organize their time and tasks effectively. This includes keeping track of multiple projects, maintaining records and files and keeping track of inventory. Being able to organize your tasks and responsibilities can help you be more productive and efficient in your role.
Attention to detail: Attention to detail is the ability to notice small changes and make corrections. This skill is important for logistics coordinators because they often oversee the transportation of large shipments. They need to notice if any of the items are missing or if any of the items are damaged. Attention to detail is also important when tracking shipments and maintaining records.
Problem-solving: A logistics coordinator oversees the movement of goods and materials, so they need to be able to identify and solve problems that arise during the process. For example, if a shipment is delayed, a logistics coordinator might need to find a new shipping company or alternative route to ensure the shipment arrives on time.
Leadership: Leadership skills can help logistics coordinators motivate their teams and encourage them to work efficiently. You can use your leadership skills to help your team meet production goals, improve their productivity and develop new processes to streamline operations.
Logistics Coordinator Work Environment
Logistics coordinators typically work in an office environment, although they may travel to meet with clients or suppliers. They typically work regular business hours, although they may be required to work overtime to meet deadlines. Logistics coordinators must be able to work well under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. They must also be able to work independently and be self-motivated.
Logistics Coordinator Trends
Here are three trends influencing how logistics coordinators work. Logistics coordinators will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.
The Growth of the Digital Supply Chain
The growth of the digital supply chain is a trend that is quickly changing the way businesses operate. This trend is causing a shift towards more automated and efficient processes, which requires professionals who can manage the logistics behind it.
As the digital supply chain grows in popularity, logistic coordinators will need to be able to adapt and understand how to best utilize its features. They will also need to be able to work with vendors and partners who are using this technology in order to ensure that their products are delivered on time and as promised.
More Collaboration Between Logistics and Sales
As businesses become more reliant on technology, the role of the logistics coordinator is evolving. In order to stay competitive, companies are now looking for professionals who can not only manage the shipping process but also collaborate with sales teams to develop new and innovative ways to deliver products to customers.
Logistics coordinators who are able to adapt to this change will be in high demand and will be able to find success in a variety of industries.
Greater Focus on Customer Experience
Customer experience is becoming increasingly important for businesses across all industries. This is because customers are more likely to buy from companies that provide a great customer experience, and they are also more likely to recommend those companies to their friends and family.
As a result, logistics coordinators can play an important role in ensuring that customers have a positive experience by making sure that their orders are shipped on time and that they are given accurate information about when their items will arrive.
How to Become a Logistics Coordinator
A logistics coordinator career can be a great way to start your career in the transportation industry. It’s a good idea to have some experience working in logistics before you become a logistics coordinator. You could do this by working as a warehouse worker, truck driver, or shipping clerk.
Once you have some experience, it’s time to move up the ladder and become a logistics coordinator. This is a great opportunity to learn about all aspects of the transportation industry. As a logistics coordinator, you will need to be able to manage multiple tasks at once and stay organized. You will also need to be able to work well with other people and communicate effectively.
Advancement Prospects
There are many ways to advance in the field of logistics. One of the best is to get further education, which can lead to positions that are not otherwise open to those without an advanced degree. For example, a logistics coordinator with a bachelor’s degree may wish to obtain a master’s degree in business administration, which would enable him or her to apply for management positions. Alternatively, a logistics coordinator with a bachelor’s degree in engineering may wish to obtain a master’s degree in engineering, which would enable him or her to apply for positions in engineering management.
Another way to advance in logistics is to gain experience and expertise in a particular area. For example, a logistics coordinator who specializes in transportation might eventually become a transportation manager. Or, a logistics coordinator who specializes in warehousing might eventually become a warehouse manager.
Logistics Coordinator Job Description Example
The logistics coordinator is responsible for the organization and coordination of transportation of goods. They work with shippers, carriers, and customers to ensure that goods are delivered on time and in good condition. The logistics coordinator is also responsible for keeping track of inventory and updating records.
The ideal candidate will have experience in logistics and transportation, as well as experience with coordination and customer service. They should be organized and detail-oriented, with good communication and problem-solving skills.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary point of contact for all logistics-related inquiries, issues, and requests
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of company products, services, and policies
- Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate delivery of goods and services
- Monitor and track shipments to ensure timely delivery and proper handling
- Investigate and resolve any discrepancies in shipment records
- Prepare shipping documents and customs paperwork as required
- Arrange for transportation and schedule deliveries with carriers
- Keep abreast of changes in import/export regulations
- Negotiate rates with vendors and service providers
- Manage inventory of shipping supplies and materials
- Process invoices and payments in a timely manner
- Generate reports on logistics activity
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, logistics, or related field
- 3-5 years experience in a logistics or supply chain management role
- Working knowledge of logistics software programs (ERP, WMS, TMS)
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, with aptitude to learn new software and systems
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
- Strong time-management skills and multitasking ability
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- MBA or other advanced degree
- Project management certification
- Experience leading and managing teams
- Familiarity with Six Sigma or other process improvement methodology
- In-depth knowledge of import/export regulations and compliance
Similar Jobs