How to Become a Logistics Coordinator

5 steps to become a logistics coordinator

1. Build a foundation

   Take business, math and computer classes; strong Excel skills matter.

2. Get logistics experience

   Start in warehousing, dispatch, customer service or an internship.

3. Learn the systems

   Get comfortable with TMS, WMS and ERP software.

4. Earn credentials or a degree

   Supply chain degrees and ASCM certifications speed advancement.

5. Advance

   Become a logistician, analyst, transportation manager or supply chain manager.

Education and training requirements

BLS lists a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business or a related field as typical for logisticians. Many coordinators enter with an associate degree or experience from warehousing, dispatch or customer service and advance with certifications.

Certifications and licenses

• CLTD (ASCM): Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution.
• CSCP (ASCM): Certified Supply Chain Professional.
• CPIM (ASCM): Certified in Planning and Inventory Management.
• MSSC Certified Logistics Technician: Entry-level credential for warehouse and logistics operations.

Skills to build now

Start with transportation and carrier management, inventory and order management, and shipping documentation, and practice problem-solving under pressure and clear communication. Learning the logistics coordinator vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.

Where the career can lead

1. Logistics Coordinator: Book, track and solve shipment issues.
2. Logistician or Logistics Analyst: Analyze and improve logistics operations.
3. Transportation or Supply Chain Manager: Lead teams and carrier strategy.
4. Director of Logistics or Supply Chain: Run the end-to-end supply chain.

Get a head start

Our self-paced Logistics Coordinator training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.

Common questions about getting started

Do you need a degree to work in logistics?

Entry-level coordinator roles often hire based on experience and skills. Logistician and analyst roles more often require a bachelor’s degree.

How long does it take to become a logistics coordinator?

Most people need about 1–4 years of training. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business or a related field as typical for logisticians. Many coordinators enter with an associate degree or experience from warehousing, dispatch or customer service and advance with certifications.

Do you need a degree to be a logistics coordinator?

Not always. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical for logisticians, but many logistics coordinators are hired from warehouse, dispatch or customer service roles and grow with experience and certifications such as ASCM’s CLTD.

What certifications are available for logistics coordinators?

Common credentials include CLTD (ASCM), CSCP (ASCM), CPIM (ASCM), and MSSC Certified Logistics Technician. Requirements vary by state and employer.

Sources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-1081 (Logisticians).
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
• O*NET OnLine summary for Logisticians (U.S. Department of Labor).
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.