The most sought-after skills in the logistics industry remain the same for the third consecutive year. The top in-demand skill is experienced operating a forklift and similar equipment, such as cherry pickers and side loaders. Having this type of experience and training will give you a huge advantage when applying for a job in this sector. Other valuable skills to have include experience using Freight+ software, handling materials and repairing and maintaining plant tools and equipment.
1. warehousing & logistics
Skills in warehousing and logistics is brand new to our list this year because they hold great value. These skills underpin the efficient functioning of businesses, delivering cost-saving benefits and ensuring precise product delivery timelines.
Warehousing and logistics skills are indispensable for meeting customer expectations, enhancing operational efficiency, and maintaining a competitive edge.
2. supply chain
Proficiency in supply chain skills is fundamental for business success. These skills enable companies to operate efficiently, reduce operational costs, and consistently meet customer expectations by optimizing the flow of goods and services.
In today's dynamic business environment, organizations value supply chain expertise as a critical asset for competitiveness and adaptability, making it a sought-after professional skill set.
3. purchasing
Purchasing skills are sought after in logistics as they influence the cost, quality, and availability of materials and services critical for smooth supply chain operations.
Efficient procurement helps optimize inventory, reduce lead times, and enhance overall logistics efficiency, making it essential for competitiveness in the industry.
4. forklift experience
For the second year in a row, forklift experience ranks as the top in-demand skill in the logistics industry. Having experience handling any type of forklift, including counterbalance, cherry picker, and walkie, can give you an advantage over candidates without this type of experience. This skill set is particularly important if you have a forklift certification.
5. freight+
Freight+ is one of the most popular shipping software applications used within the logistics industry. Knowing how to use this software to calculate and print shipping labels with the main carriers, including FedEx, UPS, and Canada Post, is the second-most in-demand skill for 2024.
6. bills of lading
Not everyone has experience using shipping software, such as freight+, to create bills of lading (BoL), which is a comprehensive list of all goods being shipped in a specific order. But if you do have this experience, it is enough skills to help you land your next job in the logistics industry. This fact is especially true if you’re applying to work for a larger company that handles international sales.
7. preventative maintenance
In the logistics industry, any machine downtime results in loss of production and money. It makes perfect sense that logistics companies actively seek out candidates with previous preventative maintenance experience to minimize the risk of breakdowns. Having experience maintaining and repairing plant tools and equipment is a great asset when seeking a logistics career.
8. material handling
Due to the nature of work within the logistics industry, material handling is a core skill set, whether applying for an entry-level position or an executive role. The more experience you have picking, packing, and moving goods and materials, the better.
9. pallet jacks
Pallet jacks are smaller and easier to use than forklifts and are used in nearly every logistic company nationwide. While no certification is necessary to use a pallet jack, logistics employers do prioritize candidates with previous experience working with pallet jacks over applicants without experience.
10. light packaging
With a rise in online shipping, the demand for workers with light packing experience is in high demand. If you have experience packing fragile and delicate materials, such as glass, food and electronics, be sure to list this valuable skill on your resume.
top trending logistics certifications for 2024
Due to the complexities of handling and transporting dangerous goods, logistics employers are continuously seeking candidates who are certified in the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) as well as Workplace Hazardous Material Information Systems (WHMIS). Additionally, holding a license to drive a commercial truck or forklift will also give you an advantage over candidates without these credentials.
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1. transportation of dangerous goods
Certification as a Structural Engineer (SE) showcases your advanced knowledge and experience in this specialized branch of engineering. One must first obtain their general Professional Engineer (PE) certification before moving forward to become SE certified.
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2. commercial driver’s license
A standard driver’s license may be sufficient for local delivery drivers using smaller trucks or vans. However, long-haul truck drivers using commercial-grade trucks (over 11,000 kilos) must have a specialized driver’s license. While each province has its own licensing requirements, having a commercial license from any district is an excellent qualification to list on your resume.
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3. material handling equipment
Material Handling Equipment (MHE) is an umbrella term used to describe any type of workplace vehicle, including forklifts, powered industrial trucks, and cranes. The more complex vehicle being certified for that higher level of training required. Employers actively seek candidates with MHE certification to avoid compliance issues.
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4. workplace hazardous material information system
Health Canada requires workplaces to have an effective Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) in place to track the purchase, use, sale and disposal of hazardous materials. It only makes sense that logistics employers handling this type of material would look for candidates who are WHMIS certified and who have experience classifying and labeling various types of hazardous materials.
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5. forklift certification
Forklifts are one of the most common vehicles used in the logistics industry. So, having enough certified forklift drivers is a must. While many employers offer forklift certification training, they also search for candidates who already have these credentials.
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