What Does a Logistics Coordinator Do?
Logistics coordinators manage the flow of goods through supply chains by planning transportation, tracking shipments, and coordinating with vendors and carriers. They ensure products move efficiently from origin to destination while minimizing costs and delays. This role requires strong organizational abilities and attention to detail.
Other Job Titles for This Work
Workers in this occupation report titles such as Client Services Administrator, Logistician, Production Planner, Supply Management Specialist.
Logistics Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities of a logistics coordinator include:
- Coordinate inbound and outbound shipments with carriers, vendors, and internal teams.
- Negotiate freight rates and service terms with transportation providers.
- Track shipments using logistics software and provide status updates to stakeholders.
- Prepare and process shipping documentation including bills of lading and customs forms.
- Resolve shipment discrepancies, delays, and damage claims promptly.
- Analyze transportation data to identify cost-saving opportunities and efficiency improvements.
- Maintain accurate records of inventory levels, shipment volumes, and carrier performance.
- Coordinate warehouse activities including receiving, storage, and order fulfillment.
- Ensure compliance with import/export regulations and hazardous materials requirements.
- Develop and maintain relationships with carriers and logistics service providers.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To succeed as a logistics coordinator, you will need the following skills and qualifications:
- Supply chain management principles
- Transportation management systems (TMS)
- Freight rate negotiation
- Shipping documentation and customs procedures
- Data analysis and reporting
- Vendor relationship management
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems
Education and Training
A bachelor's degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field is preferred for logistics coordinator positions. Some employers will accept an associate degree combined with relevant experience. Professional certifications such as the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD) from APICS can strengthen a candidate's qualifications. Familiarity with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle and transportation management software is increasingly expected.
Salary and Job Outlook
Average Salary: $42,000 - $65,000 per year
Logistics coordinators are in high demand as global supply chains become more complex and companies seek to optimize their distribution networks. E-commerce growth, international trade, and the need for efficient last-mile delivery continue to drive hiring in this field. Experienced coordinators can advance to logistics manager, supply chain analyst, or operations director positions. Professionals who combine analytical skills with technology proficiency and industry certifications will find the strongest career opportunities.
What the Work Is Like
O*NET surveys people who work as logisticians about their daily conditions. Of those surveyed:
- 100% are on the phone every day
- 100% say teamwork is very or extremely important in their job
- 96% use email every day
- 75% spend more than half the workday sitting
- 75% usually work more than 40 hours a week
- 67% say being exact and accurate is very or extremely important
- 63% work indoors in a climate-controlled space every day
Education Workers Say the Job Needs
| Education level | Share of workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | 75% |
| High school diploma or GED | 8% |
| Post-secondary certificate | 8% |
| Some college | 8% |
Tools and Software Logistics Coordinators Use
Tools and equipment
Software
Is This Job a Good Fit for You?
People who do well in this job tend to enjoy organized work with data, records and clear procedures as well as leading, persuading and making business decisions.
Skills O*NET rates most important: Critical Thinking, Reading Comprehension, Active Listening, Speaking, Monitoring, Coordination.
Knowledge areas used most: Transportation, English Language, Administration and Management, Customer and Personal Service, Mathematics.
Preparation: O*NET places this occupation in Job Zone 4 of 5, which means considerable preparation.
Related Careers
These jobs use similar skills, according to O*NET's related-occupation data:
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Sources
- O*NET 30.1 Database, occupation 13-1081.00 (Logisticians). View on O*NET OnLine.
This page includes information from the O*NET 30.1 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. The Job Explorer has modified some of the information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these changes.