Dedicated Logistics
How do I develop a career in Logistics?
Logistics is the process whereby every single thing we use or consume finds its way from its component parts to the end user. Logistics is all around us: it’s in everything we see and do and yet most people don’t even think about it at all. The logistics industry is vast and is worth £74.45 billion to the UK economy. A career in logistics can be very rewarding and due to the scope of the industry there is an extremely long list of possible careers from analysts to couriers and drivers to warehouse operations with much more in between. A job in logistics can also mean working for a small courier firm or a larger Logistics Company.
The key skills needed for any career in Logistics include a keen eye for attention to detail and a great set of organisational skills. Those wishing to pursue work in the industry will need to be efficient, punctual and dedicated.
There are many training opportunities and qualifications which will enhance your CV and help you develop the skills necessary for a career in logistics. An apprenticeship can give you a great start to your career. Apprenticeships are available in four specialist areas. The first is a Traffic Specialism, where you will learn to organise goods and plan routes. It will help you learn how to make sure loads arrive on time and in good condition. The second is a Warehouse Specialism which teaches you to organise the handling and packing of goods in and out of storage. The third is Professional Drivers Specialism as extra driving training is important with large loads. The final specialism is Postal Operatives, an area which trains you to deal with processing mail for both individuals and businesses. The practical training provided on an apprenticeship will provide you with an NVQ Level 2 in one of a selection of logistics subject areas.
For those hoping to work in a more managerial position then an advanced apprenticeship may be the next step. The advanced apprenticeship will give you the practical training needed to be awarded an NVQ level 3 in one of a variety of logistics specialisms.
Individuals looking specifically for a career in driving will need to obtain a Driver CPC, this is for LGC and PCV drivers who drive professionally in the UK. New drivers will need to obtain an Initial Driver CPC, but those with older licences in possession of a vocational licence are entitled to ‘acquired rights’. Both need to train for 35 hours in five years, known as Periodic Training. Depending on which vehicles you are interested in driving an LGV or PVC licence will also be necessary.
There are also a number of Mandatory Legislative Training courses, which may be necessary for those hoping to work with certain vehicles or machinery such as forklift drivers or lorry mounted loader.
Whatever area you are looking in there is a wealth of training and opportunities in the dynamic and exciting industry that is Logistics.
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Dedicated Logistics Inc
