Warehouse - Logistics Training

Warehouse & Logistics Training. Effective warehouse and logistics training covers processes, systems and people. Related Articles. 1 Warehouse Logistics Salary 2 The Top 5 Logistics Skills 3 The Average Salary of a Logistics Manager 4 Sample Resume Warehouse Skills List. The successful distribution of products and materials depends on the timely interaction between manufacturers, distributors, warehouse storage facilities and transportation systems. To be efficient and cost effective, the process not only requires the right facilities, systems and modes of transportation, but properly trained personnel as well. Warehouse and logistics training addresses the fundamentals of logistics and supply chain management as well as best practices in warehouse operations, transportation rules and leadership skills. Logistics involves the management and flow of materials from suppliers to storage and distribution centers, and then on to customers. This includes planning and coordinating the correct mode of transportation to meet deadlines and cost goals, whether over-the-road, in the air, by rail or on water. Ideally, training will address the overall supply chain process, including managing inventories, shipping, storage and information systems. While on-the-job training will suffice for some entry level jobs, proficiency in logistics requires a degree program offered by many colleges and universities. Warehouse Operations. Warehouse operations cover a spectrum of activities, including receiving and storing materials, controlling and protecting inventory, and fulfilling customer orders, including picking, packing and shipping. Employees must understand these basics to succeed. Training must focus on standard work procedures, equipment operation and systems needed to fulfill customer orders. They also need to know how to receive, count and store inventory and other supplies. Many warehousing operations use digital tools to aid in inventory receipt and storage. Employees need training on use of these inventory tools. Transportation Regulations. Whether transporting materials to storage facilities or to customer locations, it is important to know and follow transportation regulations. This is especially true for shipments of hazardous materials or other potentially dangerous goods. Personnel responsible for packaging and shipping hazardous materials must receive proper job training, according to Department of Transportation regulations. Drivers who transport these materials must also receive training and meet proper driving and licensing requirements. Manufacturers, suppliers, transportation and freight companies, and distribution firms must provide employees with general awareness and job specific DOT training. State and local transportation rules and permits may also apply. Leadership and Management. Warehousing and logistical activities are carried out under the direction of managers and supervisors. Leadership personnel are responsible for making sure all systems and resources are in place to get goods and materials distributed according to plans and schedules. Carrying out these duties requires knowledge of manufacturing and supplier relationships, transportation and inventory management methods, basic business strategies and the ability to work with and lead employees. Managers and supervisors need training that focuses on effective communication, problem solving, decision making, finance and supply chain management. Colleges, universities and vocational schools offer programs to meet these training needs. References (3) About the Author. Deb Dupree has been an active writer throughout her career in the corporate world and in public service since 1982. She has written numerous corporate and educational documents including project reports, procedures and employee training programs. She has a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from the University of Tennessee.