Logistics Employers Are Struggling to Hire Here Is Why
Logistics employers across the UK are struggling to hire, as skills shortages grow. Logistics UK has called the government’s youth employment drive a “lifeline for the next generation”, highlighting the need to attract new talent.
The logistics sector is facing a growing challenge across the UK: employers are struggling to hire.
From freight forwarding and supply chain operations to transport and warehousing, businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to attract and retain the right talent.
This challenge has recently been reinforced by Logistics UK, which described the government’s latest youth employment drive as a “lifeline for the next generation” , highlighting the urgent need to bring more young people into sectors like logistics.
The Logistics Skills Shortage Is Not New
Across the UK logistics and freight sector, employers are experiencing:
A lack of entry-level candidates with relevant logistics knowledge
Skills gaps in freight forwarding, customs and supply chain roles
Increased competition for experienced logistics professionals
Ongoing challenges in staff retention
Traditional recruitment alone is no longer enough to solve this problem.
Many candidates entering the market lack practical experience in logistics operations, international freight processes, and supply chain coordination, making it harder for employers to fill roles effectively.
Why Hiring in Logistics Is Getting Harder
There are several reasons why logistics recruitment has become more difficult:
1. Lack of Industry Awareness
Despite being a critical part of the UK economy, careers in logistics and freight forwarding are often overlooked by young people entering the workforce.
2. Skills Mismatch
Employers need candidates with practical, job-ready logistics skills, yet many applicants lack real-world experience in freight and supply chain environments.
3. Increasing Demand
With continued growth in ecommerce, global trade and supply chain complexity, demand for skilled logistics professionals continues to rise.
4. Retention Challenges
Without structured development pathways, retaining talent remains a key issue across the logistics sector.
Why More Logistics Employers Are Turning to Apprenticeships
Government focus on youth employment is increasing momentum but employers still need practical ways to turn this into workforce growth.
More logistics businesses are now investing in apprenticeships and freight training programmes to:
Recruit and develop entry-level logistics talent
Build a sustainable pipeline of freight and supply chain professionals
Improve retention through clear progression pathways
Align training with real operational needs
This shifts the approach from trying to hire ready-made talent to developing talent in-house.
The Role of Freight Forwarding Apprenticeships
The Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Specialist Apprenticeship is designed to support the development of skilled professionals within the logistics sector.
It enables learners to build capability in:
Freight forwarding and international logistics operations
Customs processes and import/export compliance
Supply chain coordination and customer service
Problem-solving in real logistics environments
For employers, this means developing job-ready logistics professionals who can contribute from an early stage.
Supporting Logistics Employers to Build Talent
At Momentous Learning, we work with logistics companies, freight forwarders and supply chain employers across the UK to deliver apprenticeship programmes that reflect real operational needs.
Our approach focuses on:
Embedding learning into day-to-day logistics roles
Providing consistent tutor support and coaching
Aligning training with workforce and business goals
Delivering measurable impact on performance and retention
We understand the realities of the logistics and freight sector and design programmes that deliver real outcomes.
Turning Hiring Challenges Into Long-Term Advantage
The logistics skills shortage is not going away, but employers who adapt their approach will be better positioned for the future.
Apprenticeships offer a clear route to:
Attract new talent into logistics and freight roles
Develop skilled professionals from within
Strengthen workforce capability and resilience
For many employers, this is no longer optional, it is essential.
Build Your Logistics Workforce with Apprenticeships
If you are struggling to hire in logistics, now is the time to rethink your approach.
Our team at Momentous Learning can support you to develop talent through the Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Specialist Apprenticeship.
