What does a logistics assistant do? – Tasks and work environment
A logistics assistant works to ensure that the flow of goods and deliveries functions smoothly within companies and organizations. Tasks include receiving, registering, and distributing goods, handling shipping documents, order picking, and warehouse administration. The role often involves contact with transporters, suppliers, and internal departments, requiring good communication skills and administrative ability. The work environment is typically located in warehouses, terminals, or logistics centers, where the pace can be high and tasks vary between physical work and administrative duties.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary of a logistics assistant has steadily increased, from 31,000 SEK in 2022 to 32 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 400 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of approximately 7.7% over the period. The salary increase can be linked to a general trend of rising wages within the transport and warehouse sectors, partly due to increased demands for efficiency and digitalization. Despite an oversupply of labor in the profession, wages have continued to rise, possibly because employers want to retain skilled staff in competition with other industries. Variations between regions and employers exist, and education level and experience significantly impact salary levels.
Logistics assistant salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, less than 9 years of upper secondary education)
- Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, 3 or more years of post-secondary education)
- Hourly wage: 201 SEK
- Gender difference: Women earn 32 700 SEK, men earn 33 600 SEK (women earn 97% of what men do)
- Regional differences: May occur, especially between larger cities and rural areas
Education and qualifications
To work as a logistics assistant, a high school education is generally required, preferably with a focus on logistics, trade, or transportation. Many employers also seek experience from warehouse work, computer skills, and sometimes specific certifications for forklift driving. Opportunities for further education and certification exist, which can improve chances of employment and higher salary.
- High school education: Business and administration program or Vehicle and transportation program (3 years)
- Certificates: Forklift license or other warehouse-related certificates may be required
- Internship: Work-based learning during education or internships are common
- Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and administrative ability
- Additional courses: Online or evening courses in logistics and warehouse management
Logistics assistants play a key role during large seasonal variations, such as Black Friday or before Christmas shopping, when the pressure on deliveries increases significantly. Being able to quickly adapt working routines and handle unexpected changes is often crucial for success in the role.
Common benefits and compensations
Logistics assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, employee discounts, flexible working hours, and sometimes subsidized meals. Some employers also provide work clothing and offer training in areas such as work environment and safety. Extra compensation for unsociable hours and overtime is common in the industry.
Competition and challenges
The competition for jobs as a logistics assistant is currently high, as there is an oversupply of labor in the profession. The Employment Service's prognosis indicates limited opportunities for employment, with a surplus of applicants compared to available jobs. The digital development within logistics and warehouse management has also increased demands for technical skills and adaptability. Flexibility, resilience to stress, and teamwork ability are important qualities for success. Despite the competition, there are approximately 412 job openings in the field, meaning opportunities still exist for the right candidates.
Tips for those who want to become a logistics assistant
To succeed as a logistics assistant, it is good to be meticulous and have a structured work approach from the start, as orderliness is central to the role. Developing good teamwork skills facilitates collaboration with colleagues, transporters, and other departments, which is often crucial for smooth logistics. Flexibility is also important, as tasks and priorities can change quickly depending on deliveries and customer needs. An interest in technology and the ability to quickly learn new digital systems are a big advantage, as the industry becomes increasingly digitalized. Showing engagement and a willingness to learn new tasks increases chances of securing permanent employment. Good physical endurance makes practical tasks easier, while communication skills help handle deviations and customer contact.
Key facts about logistics assistants
- Education level: High school education, often with a focus on logistics or trade
- Work environment: Warehouses, terminals, or logistics centers with varied tasks
- Work pattern: Shift work and daytime work are common
- Demand: Limited opportunities according to the Employment Service
- Available jobs: 412 advertised positions within the profession in Sweden
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years in the profession, opportunities open up to advance to roles such as warehouse manager, logistics coordinator, or supervisor within warehouses and terminals. Further education in logistics, transportation management, or purchasing can lead to more qualified positions and higher salaries. The prognosis from the Employment Service indicates that demand for logistics assistants will remain unchanged over the next five years, but the surplus of labor means competition will stay high. Digitalization and automation also affect the profession, making technical skills increasingly important for future career opportunities.
Frequently asked questions about logistics assistants
- What is the average salary of a logistics assistant?
- A logistics assistant has an average salary of 33 400 SEK per month.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for a logistics assistant?
- The highest salary is 35,500 SEK and the lowest salary is 25,900 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Yes, women earn 32 700 SEK and men 33 600 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a logistics assistant?
- High school education, preferably with a focus on logistics, trade, or transportation, is recommended.
- What is the job market like for logistics assistants?
- Opportunities for employment are limited according to the Employment Service, and there is a surplus of labor.
- What work environments are common for logistics assistants?
- Most work in warehouses, terminals, or logistics centers, with both physical and administrative tasks.
