Logistics Analysts

Global Logistics Analyst
Logistics Analyst
Logistics Management Analyst
Material Supply Planner
Supply Chain Analyst
Transportation Analyst

What is a Logistics Analyst?

A Logistics Analyst is a professional who focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of supply chain operations. They are responsible for analyzing data related to logistics processes, including transportation, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution. By utilizing various analytical tools and methodologies, Logistics Analysts assess the performance of existing operations and develop strategies to streamline processes, reduce costs, and improve overall service levels. Their work often involves forecasting demand, optimizing routes for delivery, and ensuring that products are delivered to the right place at the right time. Additionally, Logistics Analysts collaborate with various stakeholders, including suppliers, manufacturers, and customers, to facilitate smooth communication and coordination throughout the supply chain. Their expertise in data analysis and problem-solving plays a crucial role in driving operational improvements and achieving organizational goals in logistics and supply chain management.

Career Assessment
Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$47990.0 - $128550.0

This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

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Assessment

Related assessments and tests

No assessment available.

Career Assessment

Tasks

  • Maintain databases of logistics information.
  • Remotely monitor the flow of vehicles or inventory, using Web-based logistics information systems to track vehicles or containers.
  • Communicate with or monitor service providers, such as ocean carriers, air freight forwarders, global consolidators, customs brokers, or trucking companies.
  • Track product flow from origin to final delivery.
  • Interpret data on logistics elements, such as availability, maintainability, reliability, supply chain management, strategic sourcing or distribution, supplier management, or transportation.

Technology Skills

Tools Used

Knowledge

  • English Language

    Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

  • Computers and Electronics

    Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

  • Transportation

    Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.

  • Mathematics

    Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

  • Administration and Management

    Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

10 Active Jobs in South Africa
Avg Salary: R46,919pm

How to Know if You Are Ready to Become a Logistics Analyst in South Africa

The logistics sector is the backbone of the South African economy, connecting our world-class ports in Durban and Cape Town to the industrial heartland of Gauteng. Currently, the market is vibrant with 13 active jobs available. Professional prospects are also on the rise; while the average salary stands at R46,919pm, data from 2024 shows a significant upward trajectory, with entry-level expectations starting around R41,289 in January and climbing towards R51,611 by December. This growth reflects the increasing demand for data-driven professionals who can navigate our unique supply chain challenges.

Is Logistics Analysis Right for Me? (Psychometric Checklist)

Success in this field requires more than just a love for spreadsheets. It demands a specific mental framework. Ask yourself if you possess these essential traits:

  • Analytical Mindset: Do you find yourself naturally looking for patterns in data or seeking the most efficient route during your morning commute?
  • Attention to Detail: Can you spot a single discrepancy in a massive dataset that could lead to a costly transport delay?
  • Pressure Management: Are you able to remain calm and logical when a shipment is delayed at the Port of Durban or when supply chain disruptions occur?
  • Problem-Solving Proclivity: Do you enjoy "reverse engineering" problems to find out exactly where a process failed?
  • Communication Skills: Can you translate complex data into a clear, actionable story for stakeholders and warehouse managers?

A Day in the Life: Navigating the South African Supply Chain

In a South African context, a Logistics Analyst does far more than just "watch trucks." Your morning might begin with an analysis of fuel price fluctuations and their impact on long-haul transport costs between Johannesburg and Musina. You will likely spend a significant portion of your day using ERP systems (like SAP or Oracle) to monitor inventory levels and identify bottlenecks in the distribution network.

You aren't just a "number cruncher"; you are a strategist. You might spend your afternoon in a meeting with the procurement team to discuss how to mitigate the impact of local infrastructure challenges or port congestion. The environment is fast-paced, often demanding real-time adjustments to logistics schedules to ensure that goods reach the shelves of South African retailers without delay. It is a role that perfectly balances technical data analysis with practical, "on-the-ground" operational reality.

Education & Professional Upskilling

Ready to start your career as a Logistics Analysts?

Explore Top-Rated Logistics Analysts Courses on Udemy

To enter this profession, a solid educational foundation is non-negotiable, but the learning never truly stops.

  • Formal Degrees: Most South African employers look for a BCom in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or Industrial Engineering. Diplomas from TVET colleges or Universities of Technology (like CPUT or UJ) provide excellent practical grounding.
  • Short Courses & Certifications: Professional bodies like SAPICS (The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management) offer world-recognised certifications such as the CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management).
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in Advanced Excel is a prerequisite. Aspiring analysts should also look into learning SQL, Power BI, or Tableau to stay ahead of the curve.

The Golden Rule: Continuous learning is the key to longevity in this career. As the South African logistics landscape adopts more AI and automated "Control Tower" technologies, staying updated with the latest supply chain software is what will move you from a junior role into high-earning management positions.

Take the Next Step

The demand for skilled Logistics Analysts in South Africa is growing, and the financial rewards are becoming increasingly competitive. However, the role requires a unique blend of grit and granular focus. Are you truly prepared to manage the complexities of our national supply chain? Test your readiness now by taking our comprehensive career assessment and discover if you have what it takes to excel in this vital industry.


Skills

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Reading Comprehension

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Complex Problem Solving

    Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

  • Monitoring

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Abilities

  • Oral Comprehension

    The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

  • Oral Expression

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

  • Near Vision

    The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

  • Written Comprehension

    The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

  • Deductive Reasoning

    The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

  • Bachelor's degree
    64 %
  • Associate's degree
    23 %
  • Some college, no degree
    5 %

Work Activities

  • Working with Computers

    Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

  • Analyzing Data or Information

    Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

  • Getting Information

    Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates

    Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems

    Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Detailed Work Activities

  • Maintain data in information systems or databases.
  • Monitor inventories of products or materials.
  • Monitor organizational processes.
  • Evaluate logistics methods to reduce environmental impact.
  • Analyze logistics processes.

Work Interests

  • Conventional

    Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

  • Enterprising

    Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.

  • Investigative

    Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

This page incorporates data from O_NET OnLine, courtesy of the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), under the CC BY 4.0 license. O_NET is a registered trademark of USDOL/ETA. Assessify has adapted and modified the original content. Please note that USDOL/ETA has neither reviewed nor endorsed these changes.