The logistics and supply chain industry is one of the most critical sectors driving South Africa’s economy. From transporting goods across provinces to managing warehouses and ensuring smooth product delivery, logistics professionals play an essential role in business success. If you are a young South African looking for a practical way to start a career in this field, logistics and supply chain learnerships offer a perfect opportunity to gain experience, earn a stipend, and receive accredited training.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about logistics and supply chain learnerships, including where to apply, the benefits, entry requirements, and career opportunities after completion.
What Is a Logistics and Supply Chain Learnership?
A logistics and supply chain learnership is a structured training programme that combines theoretical classroom learning with practical on-the-job experience. These learnerships are designed to equip learners with the technical and administrative skills needed to work in areas like transportation, inventory control, procurement, and warehouse management.
Upon completion, participants receive a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) certificate, which is recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and increases employability in both public and private sectors.
Why Choose a Logistics and Supply Chain Learnership?
The logistics industry is vast, offering numerous career paths and long-term growth potential. Here’s why these learnerships are so valuable:
1.
Accredited Qualifications
Learnerships are backed by SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities), ensuring that the training you receive meets national quality standards.
2.
Earn While You Learn
Most logistics learnerships provide a monthly stipend to help you cover basic expenses while gaining practical experience.
3.
Hands-On Training
Learners work directly in warehouses, transport companies, and distribution centers—gaining valuable real-world experience that employers seek.
4.
Career Development
After completing the learnership, you can apply for roles such as logistics coordinator, supply chain clerk, procurement officer, or warehouse supervisor.
5.
Improved Employability
Many companies offer permanent positions to top-performing learners, making this a great way to secure long-term employment.
Top Companies Offering Logistics and Supply Chain Learnerships in South Africa (2025)
Several major organizations and SETAs provide logistics learnerships across the country. Below are some of the leading names to consider:
1.
Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA SETA)
TETA supports skills development in the transport and logistics sectors. They offer accredited learnerships in freight handling, maritime logistics, and road transport operations.
🔗 Visit TETA SETA official site
2.
Transnet Learnerships
As one of South Africa’s largest state-owned enterprises, Transnet provides extensive logistics learnerships in areas such as rail operations, port logistics, and freight movement.
🔗 Explore Transnet Learnership Opportunities
3.
Imperial Logistics Learnerships
Imperial Logistics offers practical supply chain and transportation training for young job seekers. Learners gain experience in warehouse management, distribution, and fleet coordination.
4.
DHL Supply Chain Learnerships
DHL runs annual learnerships in logistics administration, freight forwarding, and inventory management, aimed at developing youth into future logistics professionals.
5.
Shoprite Group Supply Chain Learnerships
Shoprite offers learnerships that focus on supply chain management and retail logistics, helping learners understand how goods move from suppliers to stores.
Who Qualifies for Logistics and Supply Chain Learnerships?
Each programme has specific requirements, but most share similar eligibility criteria. Applicants usually need to:
- Be South African citizens with a valid ID.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Have a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate with passes in English and Mathematics.
- Be unemployed and not currently studying.
- Be willing to commit to a 12- to 24-month training programme.
Additional qualifications, such as computer literacy or previous work experience in logistics, can improve your chances of selection.
Key Skills You Will Learn During a Logistics and Supply Chain Learnership
The goal of these learnerships is to help learners become skilled professionals capable of managing supply chain systems efficiently. Participants gain knowledge in:
- Inventory and warehouse management
- Procurement and supplier relations
- Transportation and route planning
- Distribution and logistics administration
- Supply chain optimization
- Health and safety regulations
- Computerized logistics systems (ERP, SAP, etc.)
- Customer service and communication
These skills are not only in demand in South Africa but also globally, making logistics a stable and rewarding career path.
How to Apply for Logistics and Supply Chain Learnerships (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you are ready to apply, follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Identify Opportunities
Start by visiting the websites of major companies like Transnet, TETA, or DHL to check for open learnership positions. You can also explore online job portals like Careers24, Indeed, or LinkedIn.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Make sure you have:
- A certified copy of your ID
- A certified copy of your Matric certificate
- A detailed CV
- Proof of residence
- Any relevant short course certificates
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Most companies require you to fill out an online or downloadable form. Be honest and double-check your details before submitting.
Step 4: Attend an Interview or Assessment
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews or aptitude tests to evaluate their communication skills, teamwork, and motivation.
Step 5: Wait for Selection Results
If successful, you’ll receive an offer letter outlining your training schedule, stipend, and responsibilities.
Duration and Stipend Details
Most logistics and supply chain learnerships last 12 to 18 months, depending on the programme. During this period, learners receive a monthly stipend ranging between R3,000 and R6,500, based on the company and role.
This stipend helps cover basic living costs while gaining hands-on experience and attending theoretical training sessions.
Career Opportunities After Completing the Learnership
Once you complete your logistics and supply chain learnership, you will have the skills to apply for multiple roles in various industries. Some popular career options include:
- Supply Chain Coordinator
- Freight Handler
- Warehouse Supervisor
- Transport Planner
- Inventory Controller
- Procurement Assistant
- Distribution Clerk
- Import/Export Officer
You can also further your studies by enrolling in NQF Level 5 or 6 logistics qualifications or pursuing a Diploma in Supply Chain Management to boost your career.
Benefits of Completing a Logistics and Supply Chain Learnership
- Nationally recognized certification
- Hands-on practical skills
- Stipend and financial support
- Networking with industry professionals
- Pathway to permanent employment
- Improved communication and teamwork skills
These benefits make learnerships one of the best ways to enter the logistics industry with little to no prior experience.
Challenges You May Encounter
While learnerships are rewarding, they come with a few challenges, such as:
- High competition for limited positions.
- Balancing theory and practical work.
- Adapting to workplace culture.
- Transportation costs for training venues.
However, with discipline and commitment, these challenges can be overcome easily, leading to successful completion and career growth.
Tips to Succeed in a Logistics Learnership
- Be punctual and professional at all times.
- Take initiative—show interest in learning new skills.
- Ask questions and seek feedback from your mentors.
- Keep a learning journal to track your progress.
- Build strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors.
These habits can make you stand out and increase your chances of being offered a full-time position after your learnership ends.
Final Thoughts
A logistics and supply chain learnership is an excellent stepping stone into one of the fastest-growing industries in South Africa. Whether you’re passionate about transport, warehousing, or operations management, these programmes give you the foundation you need for a successful career.
With major companies like Transnet, DHL, Imperial Logistics, and Shoprite offering accredited learnerships every year, now is the perfect time to apply and start building your professional future.
Remember: every big logistics expert started somewhere—and your journey begins with a learnership.