Logistics Coordinator Job Description
A Logistics Coordinator manages the movement, storage, and distribution of goods from origin to destination. They coordinate shipments, track deliveries, manage warehouse operations, and ensure products arrive on time and in good condition. The role is the operational heart of the supply chain — keeping goods flowing through the system efficiently and reliably.
All roles Logistics Coordinator
What does a Logistics Coordinator do?
A Logistics Coordinator schedules and coordinates shipments (inbound and outbound), tracks deliveries in real time, manages carrier relationships, processes shipping documentation, handles customs clearance for international shipments, monitors inventory levels at warehouses, resolves delivery issues and delays, and ensures compliance with transportation regulations. They work with procurement, sales, and warehouse teams to align shipping schedules with demand.
Logistics Coordinator responsibilities
- Schedule and coordinate inbound and outbound shipments
- Track deliveries in real time and communicate status to internal stakeholders
- Manage relationships with carriers, freight forwarders, and logistics providers
- Prepare and process shipping documentation (bills of lading, customs declarations, packing lists)
- Handle customs clearance and compliance for international shipments
- Monitor warehouse inventory levels and coordinate replenishment
- Resolve delivery issues, delays, and damage claims
- Negotiate shipping rates and service terms with carriers
- Ensure compliance with transportation regulations and safety standards
- Maintain logistics records and generate shipping and delivery reports
Essential requirements
- Experience in logistics, shipping, or supply chain coordination
- Knowledge of shipping procedures, freight terms (FOB, EXW, DDP), and documentation
- Proficiency with logistics or transportation management systems (TMS)
- Organizational skills for coordinating multiple shipments and carriers simultaneously
- Communication skills for working with carriers, warehouses, and internal teams
- Problem-solving ability to resolve delivery issues and delays
Preferred qualifications
- Experience with international shipping and customs compliance
- Familiarity with freight forwarding and 3PL management
- Knowledge of import/export regulations and trade compliance
- Experience with warehouse management systems (WMS)
- CLTD, CLM, or equivalent logistics certification
Core skills
Technical / professional skills
- Transportation management systems (TMS)
- Warehouse management systems (WMS)
- Logistics tracking and visibility platforms
- Customs and trade compliance tools
- Shipping carrier portals (FedEx, UPS, DHL, freight carriers)
- Spreadsheets for shipment tracking and analysis
- ERP systems with logistics modules (SAP, Oracle, NetSuite)
Soft skills
- Organization — coordinating multiple shipments and carriers simultaneously
- Communication — keeping all stakeholders informed of shipment status
- Problem-solving — resolving delivery issues and delays quickly
- Attention to detail — ensuring documentation accuracy and compliance
- Time sensitivity — understanding the urgency of delivery deadlines
Experience and education guidance
Entry-level Logistics Coordinator roles require 1-3 years of logistics or shipping experience. Mid-level roles expect 3-5 years with demonstrated ability to manage complex shipments and carrier relationships. Senior coordinators handle international logistics, manage more complex supply chain operations, and may supervise junior coordinators. The shipping volume and geographic scope determine the level required.
A bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field is common but not required. CLTD or equivalent logistics certifications can validate expertise. Many logistics coordinators build their skills through hands-on experience in shipping, warehousing, or transportation roles.
What to include in this job description
Include the shipping scope (domestic, international, or both), the logistics tools and systems used, the types of goods being shipped (perishable, hazardous, high-value), the shipping volume, and any specific logistics challenges (last-mile delivery, temperature-controlled shipping, customs complexity). Be clear about whether the role includes warehouse coordination.
Common job description mistakes for this role
Common mistakes include describing the role as data entry (underestimating the coordination and problem-solving aspects), not specifying the shipping scope, listing only tracking responsibilities without mentioning carrier management and documentation, and failing to mention customs or compliance requirements.
How to customize this job description
After generating a Logistics Coordinator job description, adjust the responsibilities to match the actual logistics operations. If the role focuses on international shipping, emphasize customs compliance and freight forwarding. If it's focused on domestic distribution, emphasize carrier management and last-mile delivery. Add specifics about the shipping volume and logistics challenges.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Logistics Coordinator do?
A Logistics Coordinator manages the movement and distribution of goods by scheduling shipments, tracking deliveries, managing carrier relationships, processing shipping documentation, and resolving delivery issues. They ensure products arrive on time and in good condition.
What is the difference between a Logistics Coordinator and a Supply Chain Manager?
A Logistics Coordinator handles the operational execution of shipping and distribution. A Supply Chain Manager has broader responsibility for the entire supply chain, including procurement, demand planning, inventory management, and strategic optimization. The coordinator executes; the manager strategizes and oversees.
What skills does a Logistics Coordinator need?
Key skills include organization, shipping documentation knowledge, carrier management, communication, problem-solving, and proficiency with logistics systems. Time sensitivity and the ability to coordinate multiple shipments simultaneously are essential.
Create a Logistics Coordinator job description
Use InstantJD to generate a scored, editable, hiring-ready version — free for verified employers.