“Is It Just Driving?” Roles In Transport Explained By Us
The common misconception about jobs in the logistics industry is that it’s “just driving” but in actual fact it is much, MUCH more than that.
The Transportation and Logistics industry is a broad, all-encompassing term for what is, as we all know, a very complex and meticulously planned supply chain. The industry comprises of various jobs, from delivery drivers and warehouse workers to logistics managers and office staff.
What Does A Transportation Role Include?
It can often be hard to navigate (no pun intended) the world of logistics and especially for someone looking to join it. We understand how it can be hard to know where you fit in. But, we’re here to help explain some of the key roles in transport and shed some light into just what it is that they do to keep the supply chain moving.
Depending on the company type and size, logistics employees can oversee:
- Supply chain management and the order cycle
- Transport costs, schedules, and delivery times
- Inventory management of goods and raw materials
- Business development
- Service automation
- Health and safety
- Inventory and stock auditing
- Transporting goods or people to their destinations safely
- Loading and unloading finished goods
- Moving products or equipment in and out of storage
- Transportation and logistics skills
Straight away from that, it’s evident that logistics is definitely not “just driving”! This stereotype is often harmful for the industry, there are many key roles that need to be filled but are flying under the radar because they are overshadowed by this perception. Here’s a closer look at some of those key jobs.
Jobs In Logistics Explained
Drivers
Drivers are what we all think of when we think logistics. They require an HGV license and depending on the vehicles operated and the type of employer, further qualifications too.
Roles and responsibilities:
- Loading and transporting items
- Delivering goods to destination on time
- Reviewing orders to ensure all items are correct and the customer is satisfied
- Helping load and unload delivery and transport vehicles
- Checking routes and road traffic beforehand
- Preparing documents and reports for deliveries
- Maintaining regulation rest times and keeping yourself in check
Logistics Management
Logistics managers oversee the distribution activities within a business. Although they work from the office, they are just as vital as those behind the wheel, making sure everyone else has the tools and information they need to do their job.
Roles and responsibilities:
- Planning and overseeing logistical operations
- Managing the order cycle
- Negotiating with clients and customers
- Handling client account contracts
- Supervising logistics staff and resources
- Planning delivery routes and ensuring quality
- Preparing budgets and managing costs
- Customers and suppliers management
Warehouse workers
Warehouse workers conduct a wide range of important duties storing, retrieving, and moving stock, supplies, and products. Qualifications are not required to perform the role making it a career opportunity for all. However, a forklift truck license is sometimes needed.
Roles and responsibilities:
- Accepting deliveries and checking packages for signs of damage
- Packing and wrapping items in preparation for dispatch
- Monitoring stock levels, conducting checks, and reporting discrepancies
- Maintaining clear aisles and adhering to health and safety practices
- Following picking lists and entering data into warehouse databases
- Using a forklift truck to move palletised goods in and out of storage
- Lifting heavy objects or light objects repetitively
- Maintaining stated productivity and quality levels
Warehouse managers
Warehouse Managers are excellent leaders who make sure everything is where it is meant to be on time and safely. They manage the warehouse workers to create one well-oiled machine.
Roles and responsibilities:
- Managing warehouse workers
- Overseeing deliveries of incoming goods
- Organising distribution and warehouse maintenance activities
- Monitoring and ensuring all operations comply with operational policies
- Maintaining a safe and secure working environment
- Planning staff rotas and overseeing training
At Drivers Direct, we specialise in placing the right people into logistics jobs and no – it’s not “just driving”! If you’re looking for a new and exciting challenge then why not pop us a message? Or, for more inspiration, read our blog, or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
