Warehouse manager

You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:

• logistics
• supply chain management
• transport management

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills needed for this job. Relevant subjects include:

• Level 3 Diploma in Warehousing and Storage
• Level 5 Supply Chain Management

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

You could start by doing an advanced apprenticeship in warehousing and storage.

This will usually take 1 year to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You could move into this job after getting supervisory experience and qualifications in warehouse or distribution work.

You can apply directly for jobs if you've got management experience in warehousing or freight distribution.

Career tips

You may have an advantage when looking for work if you've done forklift training.

Further information

You can find out more about careers in warehousing from Skills for Logistics.

You'll need:

• customer service skills
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• business management skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• leadership skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• administration skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Your day-to-day activities may include:

• working closely with clients, suppliers and transport companies
• planning the delivery and dispatch of goods
• monitoring and setting aside storage space
• tracking stock levels using computer programs
• making sure stock is stored correctly and safely, for example chemicals or food
• planning work rotas for warehouse staff
• organising recruitment and staff training

You could work in a warehouse or in an office.