Logistics Salaries: What You Can Really Earn in the UK
If you work in removals, warehousing, or any part of the supply chain, you probably wonder how your paycheck stacks up. The good news is that pay in logistics is surprisingly varied – from entry‑level helpers earning around £18,000 a year to senior managers pulling £70,000 or more. Below we break down the biggest factors that shape your wage and give you a snapshot of typical pay for the most common jobs.
What Determines a Logistics Salary?
First, location matters. Jobs in London or the South East usually pay 10‑20 % more than the same role in the North because living costs are higher. Second, experience is a big driver – the more years you’ve spent moving pallets or coordinating shipments, the higher your band will be. Third, certifications and training add value; a forklift licence, a CPCS health‑and‑safety certificate, or a TMS (Transport Management System) qualification can push your rate up by a few thousand pounds.
Industry sector also matters. Removal companies that handle full‑house moves often pay more than a small local warehouse, especially if they provide storage or insurance services. Finally, the size of the employer counts – big logistics firms with national contracts (think DHL, UPS, or large removal groups) tend to have structured salary bands and bonuses, while tiny operators may rely on ad‑hoc pay.
Typical Pay Ranges for Common Roles
Removal Operative / Delivery Driver: Entry‑level drivers start around £18k‑£22k. With a clean driving record and a few years on the road, you can reach £28k‑£32k, especially if you add overtime or night‑shift premiums.
Warehouse Operative: Base pay sits at £19k‑£23k. If you operate forklifts or manage stock control software, you’ll likely see £24k‑£30k. Night shifts or overtime can add another £2‑£4 per hour.
Logistics Coordinator: Coordinators who schedule deliveries, track inventory, and talk to customers usually earn £24k‑£32k. Those with experience in TMS or route‑optimisation tools can command £35k‑£40k.
Supply Chain Analyst: Analysts crunch data, forecast demand, and suggest cost‑saving routes. Salaries start at £28k and can climb to £45k‑£55k for those with a degree in logistics or strong Excel/PowerBI skills.
Operations Manager / Logistics Manager: Managers overseeing a fleet or a warehouse can earn anywhere from £40k to £70k, depending on the size of the operation and the profit margins they handle. Bonus structures often add 5‑15 % on top of the base pay.
Remember, many logistics jobs also come with perks like mileage reimbursement, fuel cards, and pension contributions. Some larger firms even offer profit‑sharing or performance bonuses that can push total earnings higher.
To boost your salary, focus on gaining certifications, mastering the latest software, and building a track record of on‑time deliveries. Talk to your manager about a clear pathway – many companies will fund courses if they see a return on investment.
Bottom line: logistics pays well if you keep learning and move into roles with more responsibility. Use the ranges above as a guide, compare your own experience, and ask for a review if you’re hitting the higher end of the scale. Your next raise could be just a certification or a new route plan away.
March 24, 2025
Evelyn Wescott
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