The UK logistics sector faces a consistent shortage of skilled drivers, warehouse operators, and supply chain managers. This creates abundant job opportunities for domestic and international candidates.
Due to the high demand, companies offer competitive pay packages, overtime allowances, pension schemes, and bonuses to attract and retain talent.
From driving and freight handling to route planning, inventory management, and supply chain analytics, the sector offers varied roles with room for specialization.
There are clear progression paths — for example, from driver to supervisor to logistics manager — supported by industry certifications and employer-sponsored training.
Transport & logistics is a backbone of the UK economy, supporting retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and e-commerce. It offers greater job security, especially in uncertain economic times.
The sector is rapidly evolving with automation, AI, and digital tracking systems. This offers exciting roles for tech-savvy professionals and a future-facing career path.
The UK government supports the logistics sector with investments in infrastructure, training programs, and streamlined immigration pathways for skilled workers.
Many roles involve cross-country travel and coordination, allowing workers to gain international experience and broaden their professional network.
The UK is one of the world's most connected nations, with a sophisticated network of roads, railways, ports, and airports. Working in the transport and logistics sector here means becoming part of a system that moves goods efficiently across continents. For international candidates, it's an opportunity to gain experience in a globally respected logistics environment.
From overnight freight shipments to last-mile deliveries for online shoppers, the logistics industry runs 24/7. This dynamic pace creates constant demand for reliable, skilled professionals. Whether you're interested in operations, planning, or driving, the UK offers roles that suit various schedules and lifestyles.
Brexit and an aging workforce have contributed to a noticeable shortage of logistics personnel in the UK. International candidates with the right qualifications, experience, or willingness to train are in a strong position to fill these gaps, often with support from employers seeking global talent.
The UK logistics sector is at the forefront of smart warehousing, electric fleets, route optimization, and sustainable transport. This is a great environment for tech-minded professionals or anyone interested in contributing to greener, more efficient systems.
Starting in a frontline role doesn’t mean staying there. The UK offers structured career ladders within logistics companies, along with certifications like the CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) or ILM logistics qualifications that open doors to supervisory and management positions.
The UK is a multicultural society, and many logistics companies actively promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. For international candidates, this means a more welcoming environment where your language skills, global perspective, and unique background can become assets.
Transport and logistics are essential to how society functions — delivering food, medicine, electronics, and everything in between. Working in this field gives international professionals the satisfaction of knowing they are contributing to something vital, visible, and valued.
Certain roles in transport and logistics are eligible under the UK’s Skilled Worker visa program. For international workers seeking not just a job but a future in the UK, this industry can provide a reliable entry point toward long-term residence.
Responsible for transporting goods across the UK and Europe. Requires a valid HGV license and knowledge of driving regulations.
Focuses on local or last-mile deliveries for companies like Amazon, DPD, or Royal Mail. Often requires a standard driving license and good time management.
Involves picking, packing, loading, and unloading goods in distribution centers. No formal qualifications required; training is usually provided.
Coordinates routes and schedules to ensure timely and cost-efficient deliveries. Requires analytical skills and often logistics or transport qualifications.
Manages supply chain operations, communication with clients, and movement of goods. Strong organisational and problem-solving skills are essential.
Uses data and forecasting tools to improve supply chain efficiency. Typically requires a degree in logistics, business, or a related field.
Oversees company vehicles, drivers, and compliance with legal and safety standards. Often requires experience in transport operations.
Handles international shipping logistics, customs documentation, and compliance. Requires knowledge of global trade regulations.
Leads a team of warehouse staff, oversees operations, inventory, and ensures safety and productivity. Experience and leadership skills are key.
Manages documentation, customs clearance, and logistics for overseas trade. Attention to detail and knowledge of international shipping is crucial.
No. |
Job Title |
Salary (GBP/year) |
Salary (USD/year) |
Salary (INR/year) |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
HGV Driver |
£35,000 |
$44,450 |
₹3,710,000 |
2 |
Delivery Driver |
£28,000 |
$35,560 |
₹2,968,000 |
3 |
Warehouse Operative |
£24,000 |
$30,480 |
₹2,544,000 |
4 |
Transport Planner |
£36,000 |
$45,720 |
₹3,816,000 |
5 |
Logistics Coordinator |
£32,000 |
$40,640 |
₹3,392,000 |
6 |
Supply Chain Analyst |
£42,000 |
$53,340 |
₹4,452,000 |
7 |
Fleet Manager |
£40,000 |
$50,800 |
₹4,240,000 |
8 |
Freight Forwarding Agent |
£33,000 |
$41,910 |
₹3,498,000 |
9 |
Customs Clearance Officer |
£34,000 |
$43,180 |
₹3,604,000 |
10 |
Warehouse Manager |
£38,000 |
$48,260 |
₹4,028,000 |
11 |
Logistics Manager |
£45,000 |
$57,150 |
₹4,770,000 |
12 |
Import/Export Clerk |
£30,000 |
$38,100 |
₹3,180,000 |
13 |
Supply Chain Manager |
£52,000 |
$66,040 |
₹5,512,000 |
14 |
Route Planner |
£31,000 |
$39,370 |
₹3,286,000 |
15 |
Operations Manager (Logistics) |
£50,000 |
$63,500 |
₹5,300,000 |
16 |
Transport Supervisor |
£33,000 |
$41,910 |
₹3,498,000 |
17 |
Inventory Controller |
£29,000 |
$36,830 |
₹3,074,000 |
18 |
Forklift Operator |
£26,000 |
$33,020 |
₹2,756,000 |
19 |
Shipping Coordinator |
£31,000 |
$39,370 |
₹3,286,000 |
20 |
Distribution Centre Manager |
£48,000 |
$60,960 |
₹5,088,000 |
Criteria |
Details |
---|---|
Work Visa Requirement |
Must apply under the UK Skilled Worker visa or other applicable visa routes. |
Job Offer from UK Employer |
A confirmed job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor is mandatory for visa approval. |
Salary Threshold |
Typically £26,200/year or £10.75/hour (varies based on job and experience). |
English Language Proficiency |
Must meet minimum English level (B1 CEFR) via IELTS, SELT, or equivalent. |
Relevant Qualifications |
Educational or professional qualifications required for roles like logistics analyst or planner. |
Driving License (if required) |
HGV or LGV driving roles require a valid UK or EU HGV license, or conversion of foreign license. |
Health & Character Checks |
Must pass criminal background checks and sometimes TB tests (based on home country). |
Occupation on Shortage List |
Some roles (e.g. HGV drivers) are on the UK Shortage Occupation List, easing visa process. |
Work Experience |
Experience requirements vary: entry-level (0–2 years), managerial (3+ years). |
Sponsorship by Employer |
Employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to apply for a Skilled Worker visa. |
No. |
Job Title |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
---|---|---|
1 |
HGV Driver |
Transport goods long distances, maintain vehicle, follow safety/legal driving regulations. |
2 |
Delivery Driver |
Deliver packages locally or regionally, plan routes, ensure timely delivery, maintain records. |
3 |
Warehouse Operative |
Pick, pack, load/unload goods, stock control, keep warehouse clean and safe. |
4 |
Logistics Coordinator |
Schedule shipments, track orders, liaise with clients and transport providers. |
5 |
Transport Planner |
Design efficient delivery routes, plan vehicle usage, optimize time and cost. |
6 |
Fleet Manager |
Manage vehicle maintenance, fuel usage, driver schedules, and compliance with laws. |
7 |
Supply Chain Analyst |
Analyze data to improve supply chain performance, forecast demand, and minimize costs. |
8 |
Warehouse Manager |
Oversee daily warehouse operations, manage staff, enforce safety standards, monitor inventory. |
9 |
Logistics Manager |
Supervise entire logistics chain, manage transportation and warehousing, coordinate with suppliers. |
10 |
Freight Forwarding Agent |
Arrange shipments, negotiate freight rates, handle customs and shipping documents. |
11 |
Customs Clearance Officer |
Ensure imported/exported goods meet legal requirements, prepare documentation, resolve issues. |
12 |
Forklift Operator |
Operate forklift trucks to move goods, follow safety protocols, assist in loading/unloading. |
13 |
Import/Export Clerk |
Prepare shipping documents, manage bookings, ensure legal compliance in international trade. |
14 |
Inventory Controller |
Monitor stock levels, conduct stock checks, use software to manage inventory accuracy. |
15 |
Operations Manager (Logistics) |
Manage day-to-day logistics activities, oversee teams, implement process improvements. |
16 |
Route Planner |
Use software to create delivery routes, balance delivery efficiency with fuel and time constraints. |
17 |
Shipping Coordinator |
Schedule shipments, track deliveries, coordinate between warehouses and carriers. |
18 |
Distribution Centre Manager |
Oversee storage, distribution, staffing, and workflow of a regional or national distribution centre. |
19 |
Transport Supervisor |
Supervise drivers, ensure vehicle readiness, manage delivery schedules and driver compliance. |
20 |
Supply Chain Manager |
Lead supply chain strategy, coordinate with suppliers, manage procurement, logistics, and inventory. |
No. |
Job Title |
Eligibility Requirements |
---|---|---|
1 |
HGV Driver |
UK HGV license (Category C or C+E), CPC certification, Skilled Worker visa, basic English proficiency |
2 |
Delivery Driver |
Valid UK/EU/converted foreign driving license, right to work in UK, basic English, customer service skills |
3 |
Warehouse Operative |
Right to work in UK, physical fitness, basic English, no formal qualification required |
4 |
Logistics Coordinator |
Right to work, diploma/degree in logistics or relevant experience, English proficiency |
5 |
Transport Planner |
Degree/diploma in transport/logistics, planning experience, Skilled Worker visa, good analytical skills |
6 |
Fleet Manager |
Prior fleet management experience, logistics/automotive knowledge, English fluency, visa sponsorship |
7 |
Supply Chain Analyst |
Degree in supply chain/business, data analysis skills, Skilled Worker visa eligibility |
8 |
Warehouse Manager |
Supervisory experience in warehousing, strong English skills, valid UK work visa |
9 |
Logistics Manager |
Degree in logistics/operations, leadership experience, English fluency, visa sponsorship |
10 |
Freight Forwarding Agent |
Knowledge of international trade, customs procedures, English proficiency, work visa |
11 |
Customs Clearance Officer |
Knowledge of UK/EU customs, documentation skills, work authorization, English skills |
12 |
Forklift Operator |
Valid forklift certification (RTITB/ITSSAR), work permit, physical ability, basic English |
13 |
Import/Export Clerk |
Understanding of global trade, documentation skills, English language, legal UK work status |
14 |
Inventory Controller |
Inventory software skills, numeracy, right to work, warehouse experience preferred |
15 |
Operations Manager (Logistics) |
Management experience, logistics qualification, visa sponsorship, strong communication skills |
16 |
Route Planner |
Route optimization experience or software skills (e.g. Paragon), visa eligibility, English proficiency |
17 |
Shipping Coordinator |
Shipping and freight knowledge, communication skills, legal right to work, English fluency |
18 |
Distribution Centre Manager |
Operations and staff management experience, logistics qualification, visa eligibility |
19 |
Transport Supervisor |
Experience managing drivers or delivery teams, compliance knowledge, work authorization |
20 |
Supply Chain Manager |
Advanced supply chain knowledge, degree/MBA, visa eligibility, strategic planning and leadership skills |
No. |
Job Title |
Typical Experience Required |
---|---|---|
1 |
HGV Driver |
1–2 years driving experience preferred; CPC qualification required |
2 |
Delivery Driver |
0–1 year; entry-level accepted with a clean driving license |
3 |
Warehouse Operative |
0–1 year; basic training usually provided on the job |
4 |
Logistics Coordinator |
1–3 years in logistics/supply chain or administrative roles |
5 |
Transport Planner |
2–4 years in transport scheduling or planning; logistics qualification preferred |
6 |
Fleet Manager |
3–5 years in fleet operations or vehicle maintenance management |
7 |
Supply Chain Analyst |
2–3 years in analytics or supply chain management; Excel and ERP skills often required |
8 |
Warehouse Manager |
3–5 years in warehouse operations, including supervisory roles |
9 |
Logistics Manager |
4–6 years in end-to-end logistics operations, plus team management experience |
10 |
Freight Forwarding Agent |
2–3 years in international shipping or freight operations |
11 |
Customs Clearance Officer |
2–4 years dealing with customs documentation and UK import/export regulations |
12 |
Forklift Operator |
1+ year preferred; RTITB/ITSSAR forklift license required |
13 |
Import/Export Clerk |
1–2 years in trade documentation or freight forwarding |
14 |
Inventory Controller |
1–3 years in stock management, inventory software experience helpful |
15 |
Operations Manager (Logistics) |
5–7 years in logistics operations and team leadership |
16 |
Route Planner |
2–3 years in route scheduling or dispatch with relevant software experience |
17 |
Shipping Coordinator |
1–2 years in domestic or international shipping coordination |
18 |
Distribution Centre Manager |
5+ years managing warehouse/distribution operations and large teams |
19 |
Transport Supervisor |
2–4 years supervising drivers or coordinating transport operations |
20 |
Supply Chain Manager |
5–8 years across supply chain functions with leadership and strategic planning experience |
No. |
Company Name |
Specialisation |
Known for Hiring International Talent |
Visa Sponsorship |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
DHL Supply Chain UK |
Global logistics and supply chain |
Yes – especially warehouse & driving roles |
Yes |
2 |
Wincanton Plc |
Supply chain & logistics solutions |
Yes – HGV drivers, planners, warehouse |
Yes (for skilled roles) |
3 |
Royal Mail Group |
National postal and parcel delivery |
Limited – some driver roles |
Occasionally |
4 |
Amazon Logistics UK |
E-commerce warehousing & delivery |
Yes – warehouse operatives, managers |
Yes (Skilled roles) |
5 |
DPD UK |
Parcel delivery and express logistics |
Yes – particularly drivers |
Limited |
6 |
XPO Logistics UK |
Freight and supply chain management |
Yes – HGV drivers, supervisors |
Yes |
7 |
GXO Logistics UK |
Contract logistics, distribution |
Yes – warehouse, logistics coordinators |
Yes |
8 |
Kuehne + Nagel UK |
Freight forwarding, warehousing |
Yes – freight & customs roles |
Yes |
9 |
DB Schenker UK |
Freight, transport & contract logistics |
Yes – customs agents, logistics planners |
Yes |
10 |
CEVA Logistics UK |
End-to-end supply chain services |
Yes – multiple logistics functions |
Yes |
11 |
FedEx UK |
Express courier and logistics |
Limited – mostly domestic hiring |
Occasionally |
12 |
UPS UK |
Global parcel and logistics services |
Yes – drivers, warehouse staff |
Occasionally |
13 |
Ocado Group |
Grocery logistics and warehouse robotics |
Yes – warehouse, engineering logistics |
Yes (tech/logistics) |
14 |
Tesco Distribution |
Retail distribution and transport |
Yes – especially HGV drivers |
Yes (selected roles) |
15 |
Menzies Distribution |
Logistics for print, parcel, and mail |
Yes – transport and logistics staff |
Yes (varies by role) |
No. |
Job Title |
Avg Salary (GBP/Year) |
Job Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
HGV Driver |
£35,000 |
UK HGV License (Cat C/C+E), CPC, Clean Record |
DHL, XPO, Wincanton, Tesco, Menzies |
Long-distance goods transport, vehicle checks, route compliance |
2 |
Delivery Driver |
£28,000 |
UK Driving License, Good Navigation, Basic English |
Amazon, DPD, Royal Mail, UPS |
Deliver parcels locally, customer interaction, route planning |
3 |
Warehouse Operative |
£24,000 |
Physically fit, right to work, basic English |
Amazon, GXO, Tesco, DHL |
Picking, packing, loading/unloading, stock control |
4 |
Logistics Coordinator |
£32,000 |
1–3 yrs experience, English fluency, logistics knowledge |
GXO, DHL, Kuehne + Nagel |
Arrange shipments, schedule transport, customer communication |
5 |
Transport Planner |
£36,000 |
2–4 yrs experience, route planning tools, English skills |
Wincanton, XPO, DB Schenker |
Plan efficient routes, track deliveries, manage schedules |
6 |
Fleet Manager |
£40,000 |
3–5 yrs fleet ops, knowledge of vehicle compliance |
DHL, Royal Mail, FedEx |
Manage vehicle fleet, service schedules, ensure legal compliance |
7 |
Supply Chain Analyst |
£42,000 |
Data analysis, degree in logistics/business, Excel |
Amazon, Ocado, Tesco, DHL |
Optimize inventory flow, analyze performance, forecast demand |
8 |
Warehouse Manager |
£38,000 |
3–5 yrs warehouse experience, leadership skills |
GXO, Amazon, Tesco |
Supervise warehouse team, ensure health & safety, manage inventory |
9 |
Logistics Manager |
£45,000 |
4–6 yrs logistics experience, degree preferred |
DHL, Wincanton, CEVA |
Oversee supply chain ops, coordinate transport, manage warehouse/logistics teams |
10 |
Freight Forwarding Agent |
£33,000 |
Knowledge of international shipping, customs |
Kuehne + Nagel, DB Schenker, CEVA |
Book cargo, handle shipping documentation, arrange international transport |
11 |
Customs Clearance Officer |
£34,000 |
2–4 yrs in customs, understanding of UK/EU trade laws |
DB Schenker, DSV, Kuehne + Nagel |
Prepare import/export paperwork, manage HMRC compliance |
12 |
Forklift Operator |
£26,000 |
RTITB/ITSSAR forklift license, physical stamina |
Amazon, GXO, Ocado |
Move goods using forklift, load/unload, warehouse support |
13 |
Import/Export Clerk |
£30,000 |
Trade knowledge, documentation skills, attention to detail |
CEVA, Kuehne + Nagel, DB Schenker |
Handle export paperwork, booking shipments, ensure customs compliance |
14 |
Inventory Controller |
£29,000 |
Stock systems knowledge, accuracy, warehouse background |
Tesco, DHL, GXO |
Monitor inventory, conduct stock checks, use tracking software |
15 |
Operations Manager (Logistics) |
£50,000 |
5–7 yrs in logistics, leadership experience |
Wincanton, DHL, Amazon |
Manage daily operations, team leadership, process improvement |
16 |
Route Planner |
£31,000 |
Route planning software, 2–3 yrs exp., logistics knowledge |
DPD, FedEx, DHL |
Optimize driver routes, reduce fuel/time costs |
17 |
Shipping Coordinator |
£31,000 |
Shipping exp., multitasking, communication skills |
CEVA, DB Schenker, GXO |
Schedule shipments, track deliveries, coordinate warehouse and transport |
18 |
Distribution Centre Manager |
£48,000 |
5+ yrs in distribution or warehouse management |
Tesco, Amazon, Ocado |
Oversee warehouse staff, manage logistics flow, enforce health and safety |
19 |
Transport Supervisor |
£33,000 |
Driving/transport team experience, scheduling knowledge |
DHL, Royal Mail, DPD |
Supervise transport teams, manage delivery schedules, ensure vehicle readiness |
20 |
Supply Chain Manager |
£52,000 |
5–8 yrs across supply chain, leadership and ERP skills |
Amazon, Tesco, DHL, Ocado |
Oversee procurement to delivery, supplier management, strategic planning |
Visa Type |
Suitable For |
Key Eligibility Criteria |
Typical Roles Covered |
---|---|---|---|
Skilled Worker Visa |
Most common visa for qualified workers |
Job offer from licensed UK sponsor, meets salary threshold, English language proficiency |
HGV Driver, Logistics Manager, Warehouse Manager, Supply Chain Analyst |
Temporary Worker – Seasonal Visa |
Short-term or seasonal roles |
Age 18+, temporary contract, employer sponsorship, 6-month limit |
Warehouse Operative, Forklift Operator (seasonal/logistics peak times) |
Graduate Visa |
International students who studied in the UK |
UK degree, valid student visa at time of application |
Entry-level logistics roles, internships, warehouse/route planner |
Global Business Mobility Visa |
Multinational company transfers |
Sponsorship from an overseas company with UK branch |
Supply Chain Manager, Fleet Manager (corporate transfers only) |
Health and Care Worker Visa |
Not applicable to transport & logistics |
N/A |
Not eligible for logistics-related jobs |
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa |
Young individuals (18–30) from eligible countries |
No sponsorship needed, 2-year stay allowed |
Delivery Driver, Warehouse Operative, Entry-level logistics roles |
High Potential Individual Visa |
Top global university graduates |
No job offer required, recognized degree, valid within last 5 years |
Entry to mid-level roles in logistics and supply chain |
Start-up/Innovator Visa |
Entrepreneurs starting a logistics business |
Business plan approved by endorsing body |
For individuals launching tech/logistics startups |