Warehousing and Distribution Jobs Key Terms

To help you get started in this profession, here are some key terms

By Ann Starr

Jobs in warehousing and distribution require a specific set of training and skills. There is a career path you can follow that takes you from an entry level worker to management. These jobs have a number of different terms that you will find in job postings and descriptions. They include freight agent, logistics agent or transportation agent. The field of practice is also referred to as logistics management, supply chain management, third party logistics and distribution. There are a lot of resources on the Internet where you can get in-depth information on this profession. One thing they all have in common is the management of movement of materials and products in or out of warehouses. There are also a number of professional organizations associated with the field where you can learn more about careers in warehousing and distribution.

Distribution manager

A distribution manager or warehouse manager is responsible for tracking equipment, products or parts through a warehouse from the time they come into the facility to when they go out. This is one step in a career in supply chain management.
Try: TechTarget offers a good definition of distribution. Jobs.net has a list of jobs in this field.

Supply chain manager

Supply chain management (SCM) is the management of movement and storage of materials from their raw state all the way through manufacturing and distribution until they are purchased by the consumer. Warehouse and distribution managers know this is a key part of their job.
Try: For a comprehensive definition you can find one at Rockford Consulting Group. One professional association for this field is the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals or CSCMP.

Logistics manager

Logistics is the management of the flow of products between its origination to its point of consumption. Warehouse and distribution managers are also known as logistics managers.
Try: LogisticsWorld has several definitions. For current information about logistics management go to Logistics Management.

Logistics agent

A logistics agent is an employee of an enterprise who is responsible for overseeing the flow of goods between the point of origin to the point of consumption. Logistics agent is one level in the career ladder of the warehouse and distribution field. Those agents who have third party forwarding experience can sometimes even work from their home.
Try: For more information on what a logistics agent does go to Enterprise Integration Laboratory.

Freight agent

A freight agent is an employee of a freight carrier who acts on behalf of the organization and directs the receipt and delivery of goods. This is part of the career ladder for a warehouse and distribution manager.
Try: OnPedia has a succinct definition of this job. If you want a good forum on these jobs you can find one at Indeed.

Third party logistics providers

Third party logistics providers (3PL) is an outsourced solution for an enterprise that has a varied and extensive supply chain. They want another firm to plan and manage the flow of goods and materials that are needed in their facility. 3PL companies are a great source for warehouse and distribution jobs.
Try: BusinessDictionary.com has a good definition of these types of companies. For a list of the top 100 third party logistics providers go to inboundlogistics.com.