Logistics assistant

What does a logistics assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A logistics assistant primarily works with receiving, storing, picking, and shipping goods within warehouse and terminal operations. The tasks often involve both manual and digital work, where logistics systems are used to register and track the flow of goods. The work environment includes heavy lifting, forklift driving, and collaboration with colleagues in a fast-paced setting. Logistics assistants operate in everything from larger distribution centers to smaller warehouses, and the work environment demands accuracy, safety, and efficiency.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a logistics assistant has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, rising to 32 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 400 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.7% over the period. The salary increase is partly explained by automation in the industry and increased demands for digital skills, but also by general wage adjustments within collective agreements. Despite this positive trend, salary levels remain relatively equal between genders, although women still earn slightly less than men. Market demand has been stable, but competition for jobs remains high, which affects salary development.

Logistics assistant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, low education)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK/hour (average for part-time employees)
• Gender differences: Men 33 600 SEK/month, women 32 700 SEK/month (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Varying data, but generally slightly higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a logistics assistant, a high school education is usually required, often with a focus on transportation, logistics, or trade. Many employers prefer candidates to have a forklift license and experience in warehouse work, but there are also opportunities to learn a lot on the job. Certifications and shorter courses can increase employability, especially in larger organizations. Practical experience and good physical condition are important complements to formal education.

• High school education: Focus on transportation, logistics, or trade (3 years)
• Forklift license: Often a requirement for employment (A+B licenses most common)
• Workplace internship: Provides valuable experience and references
• Courses in warehouse management systems: Meritorious and sometimes offered by employers
• Prerequisites: Good physical fitness and teamwork skills strongly recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Logistics assistants are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pension, insurance, and overtime compensation. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses during busy periods. Larger employers may also offer subsidized lunches and employee discounts.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a logistics assistant is significant, with a national surplus of applicants according to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts. Despite 412 job openings within the profession, opportunities are generally limited, especially for those without relevant experience or education. Automation and digitalization increase demands for technical understanding and adaptability. Physically demanding tasks, monotonous duties, and shift work can also pose challenges. To succeed in competing for jobs, it is important to demonstrate flexibility, reliability, and a willingness to learn new skills.

Tips for those who want to become a logistics assistant

To succeed as a logistics assistant, it is good to have strong collaboration skills and be flexible in your working approach, as tasks often vary. Precision is crucial when handling goods and recording in systems, so developing attention to detail is beneficial. Acquiring a forklift license and actively seeking internships in warehouse operations greatly increase employment chances. A positive attitude towards physical work and readiness for shift work are also important, as well as the ability to work efficiently under pressure. Demonstrating responsibility and punctuality is appreciated by employers, especially in roles where coordination and safety are central. Finally, being curious about new methods and digital systems is an advantage, as technological development in the logistics industry progresses rapidly.

Key facts about logistics assistants

• Education level: High school, often transportation/logistics
• Work environment: Warehouses, terminals, often physically demanding
• Work form: Shift work and full-time are common
• Demand: Limited opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Special skills: Forklift license and digital warehouse management

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a logistics assistant, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as warehouse manager, supervisor, or specialist in logistics systems. Some choose to pursue further education as logisticians or transportation planners. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s prognosis indicates that demand for warehouse and terminal staff is expected to remain unchanged over five years, but competition for jobs remains high. Automation and digitalization may eventually change the work content and require higher technical skills. The chances of employment are somewhat better in metropolitan regions and within larger logistics companies. Currently, there are 412 job openings in the profession in Sweden.

Common questions about logistics assistants

• What is the average salary for a logistics assistant?
  - A logistics assistant has an average monthly salary of 33 400 SEK.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn on average 33 600 SEK per month, while women earn 32 700 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What is required to get a job as a logistics assistant?
  - High school education with a focus on logistics or trade, forklift license, and practical experience are often advantageous.
• What are the job tasks of a logistics assistant?
  - They work with receiving, storing, picking, and shipping goods, as well as managing warehouse systems and forklifts.
• What are the future prospects for logistics assistants?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged, but competition is high and automation influences the profession.
• Is there an opportunity to advance?
  - Yes, after a few years there are opportunities for roles such as warehouse manager or supervisor.
• What is the hourly wage for a logistics assistant?
  - The hourly wage for a part-time logistics assistant averages 201 SEK.