Introduction

The transport and logistics industry is one of the most critical sectors in South Africa’s economy. It ensures that goods, services, and people move efficiently across cities, provinces, and even international borders. From freight trucking and warehousing to courier services and public transportation, logistics is at the heart of trade and development.

For many job seekers, this sector offers opportunities for stable employment and career advancement. One of the best entry points is through transport and logistics learnerships. These structured training programs combine theoretical classroom instruction with practical workplace experience, giving learners valuable skills while earning a stipend.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to apply for transport and logistics learnerships in South Africa, the requirements, benefits, application process, and career opportunities available after completion.

What is a Transport and Logistics Learnership?

A learnership is a structured program registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) that combines theoretical learning with hands-on workplace training.

Transport and logistics learnerships are designed to equip learners with the knowledge and skills to work in areas such as:

• Road freight transportation
• Supply chain management
• Warehouse operations
• Freight forwarding and customs
• Public transport operations
• Courier and delivery services

These programs are funded and monitored by the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA SETA), which is the official Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) responsible for training in this field.

Benefits of Transport and Logistics Learnerships

Enrolling in a learnership provides multiple advantages:

1. Recognized Qualification – On completion, learners receive a SAQA-accredited certificate or diploma.
2. Practical Work Experience – Learners gain valuable on-the-job training that improves employability.
3. Stipend Support – Most programs provide monthly stipends to cover travel and living costs.
4. Job Opportunities – Many companies absorb learners into permanent roles after completion.
5. Career Growth – Logistics offers diverse career paths, from truck driving to supply chain management.
6. Entrepreneurial Skills – Some programs equip learners to start small businesses in logistics and transport.

Entry Requirements for Transport and Logistics Learnerships

While requirements differ depending on the specific program, the common criteria include:

• Minimum Education: Grade 10 or 12 (Matric) depending on the program.
• Age: Typically between 18–35 years.
• Citizenship: South African citizen with a valid ID.
• Driver’s License: For driving-related learnerships, a valid Code 8 (B) or Code 10/14 (C1/EC) license may be required.
• Health and Fitness: Some programs may require medical fitness tests (especially for drivers).
• Communication Skills: Ability to read and write in English, with basic numeracy.

Some learnerships may also require no criminal record, particularly for courier or freight roles.

Types of Transport and Logistics Learnerships

There are different types of programs learners can choose from depending on their career goals:

• Professional Driving Learnerships (truck, bus, courier drivers)
• Freight Handling and Warehousing (loading, packing, stock management)
• Supply Chain and Logistics Management (planning, scheduling, inventory control)
• Courier and Delivery Services (bike riders, drivers, parcel handling)
• Maritime and Aviation Logistics (airport ground handling, seaport operations)
• Rail Transport Services (train operations, safety, ticketing)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Transport and Logistics Learnerships

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Before applying, ensure you have the following certified documents ready:

• Copy of your South African ID
• Copy of your highest school qualification (Grade 10/12)
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Proof of residence
• Driver’s license (for driving-related programs)
• Medical certificate (if required by the program)

Step 2: Search for Learnership Opportunities

Transport and logistics learnerships are advertised by:

• TETA SETA website (www.teta.org.za)
• Transport companies (e.g., Transnet, Imperial Logistics, DHL, FedEx, Post Office, SANRAL)
• Courier companies (e.g., Aramex, DSV, The Courier Guy)
• Freight and trucking companies (e.g., Barloworld Logistics, Value Logistics, DB Schenker)
• Job portals (Indeed, PNet, Careers24, LinkedIn)
• Government platforms (Department of Employment and Labour)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Applications can be submitted in different ways depending on the program:

• Online Applications – Through company websites or job portals.
• Email Applications – By sending your CV and documents to the HR department.
• Hand Deliveries – At transport depots, offices, or SETA offices.

Step 4: Attend Interviews or Assessments

If shortlisted, you may be invited to:

• Driver assessments (if applying for professional driving learnerships).
• Literacy and numeracy tests to check academic ability.
• Interviews to assess motivation, communication skills, and career interest.

Step 5: Sign a Learnership Agreement

Once accepted, you’ll sign a contract between you, the employer, and the training provider. This ensures all parties commit to the program requirements.

Step 6: Start the Training Program

Learnerships usually run for 12–24 months and include both classroom learning and workplace training.

What to Expect During a Transport and Logistics Learnership

Theoretical Training (Classroom)

• Logistics and supply chain fundamentals
• Road safety and transport regulations
• Inventory and warehouse management
• Freight handling and storage
• Customer service in logistics
• Route planning and scheduling

Practical Training (Workplace)

• Driving heavy vehicles or courier vans (for driving learnerships)
• Handling, packing, and loading goods
• Managing delivery schedules and routes
• Operating warehouse equipment like forklifts
• Assisting with supply chain coordination

Companies Offering Transport and Logistics Learnerships

Several organizations in South Africa provide these opportunities:

1. Transnet – Learnerships in rail, freight, and port logistics.
2. Imperial Logistics – Freight forwarding, warehouse operations, and supply chain.
3. DHL & FedEx – Courier and parcel handling learnerships.
4. Value Logistics – Truck driving and warehouse learnerships.
5. DSV Global Logistics – International logistics training programs.
6. South African Post Office (SAPO) – Courier and delivery services training.
7. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) – Aviation logistics and ground handling.

Career Opportunities After Completing a Learnership

Completing a transport and logistics learnership opens doors to various roles, including:

• Truck Driver / Bus Driver
• Courier / Delivery Driver
• Warehouse Assistant / Supervisor
• Freight Handler
• Supply Chain Coordinator
• Customs and Freight Forwarding Clerk
• Logistics Planner
• Operations Manager

With experience, learners can advance into management or even start their own small logistics businesses.

Challenges in the Transport and Logistics Industry

Like any industry, logistics has its challenges:

• Long working hours, including nights and weekends.
• Physically demanding tasks (lifting, packing, driving long distances).
• Stress from meeting delivery deadlines.
• Safety risks on the roads.

However, with resilience and proper training, these challenges can be overcome, leading to rewarding career growth.

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Success

• Apply to multiple learnerships to increase chances of acceptance.
• Keep your CV updated and highlight any logistics or driving experience.
• Be punctual and professional during interviews.
• Improve your driving skills if aiming for driver learnerships.
• Show enthusiasm for logistics and willingness to learn.

Conclusion

Transport and logistics are essential to South Africa’s economy, and the demand for skilled workers continues to grow. By applying for a transport and logistics learnership, you can gain valuable qualifications, workplace experience, and even permanent employment in a dynamic industry.

The application process is straightforward: prepare your documents, search for opportunities through TETA SETA or logistics companies, apply, attend interviews, and commit to the program. With determination, you can build a rewarding career in logistics, whether as a professional driver, warehouse operator, or supply chain manager.

If you are ready to build a future in this industry, start searching for transport and logistics learnerships today – they could be your gateway to a stable and fulfilling career.