Logistics is simply defined as “the commercial activity of transporting goods to customers.” Naturally, wherever there is a seaport, there will be plentiful opportunities for local people to secure employment in the field of ‘port logistics’.
Examples of roles in this field include:
- Customer services – ensuring customers receive excellent service regarding the delivery and/or collection of their goods
- Freight forwarding – planning routes and delivery schedules, booking cargo space, processing customs declarations, preparing documentation etc.
- Supply chain management – inspecting goods to be shipped, packaging of goods, stock management, tracking of shipments, organising replacements or refunds where sub-standard or incorrect goods are delivered, negotiation with suppliers regarding prices and other terms & conditions
- Procurement – different roles in this field might involve: obtaining materials, stock management, invoicing, negotiating arrangements with suppliers, reviewing contracts, controlling budgets
Roles specifically advertised with ‘logistics’ in the title might involve:
- Inspecting goods being shipped
- Liasing with suppliers
- Ensuring all goods are shipped at the same time, and on time
- Handling customs and tax matters
- Maintaining comprehensive records of all transactions and shipments
Some of the personal attributes that recruiters may be seeking when considering applications for a logistics vacancy include:
- Teamworking skills – as we have seen in this article, logistics involves liaising with a number of people in different job roles
- Negotiation skills – some roles involve negotiating the price of a shipment, or other terms and conditions
- Attention to detail – customers expect the correct order to arrive, in good condition, and on time. Planning of routes and schedules can also require meticulous attention to detail
- Customer service skills – as well as expecting the right goods to be delivered, customers expect prompt, courteous and efficient service
- Computer literacy – as with most roles, the logistics industry relies heavily on technology
- Communication skills – in many roles you will be communicating with vendors, buyers and colleagues, keeping them updated throughout the shipment process
