How to Become a Transport Manager

A transport manager is responsible for making sure people and goods get from point A to point B — that’s the simple way of putting it. In reality, managing a company’s logistics is anything but simple.

These professionals oversee fleets, coordinate delivery schedules, manage compliance, and solve problems when shipments don’t go as planned. Their work keeps supply chains running smoothly behind the scenes.

Because of their vital role, transport managers are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 9% job growth in this field through 2033 — much faster than the average growth rate (4%) for all occupations.

If you’re wondering how to become a transport manager, read on for an overview of the steps you’ll need to take.

Transport managers oversee a company’s logistics — that includes coordinating the movement of raw materials, supplies, and finished products to keep operations running smoothly.

These professionals are critical to a company’s operations. They ensure materials arrive where and when they’re needed for production and that finished products reach customers on time.

At transportation-focused companies, they’re responsible for making sure passengers get to their destinations safely and on schedule.

Their responsibilities usually include:

Becoming a transport manager takes several years. You’ll typically need several years of relevant industry experience before employers consider you for the role.

The BLS states that a high school diploma or equivalent is generally the minimum requirement to become a transport manager, but some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree.

A degree in supply chain management can help you break into the logistics industry and build the skill set for a management position. Many schools offer affordable, online supply chain management degrees that you can complete while working.

If you don’t want to pursue a degree, a short-term supply chain management certificate like the APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) can help you qualify for entry-level jobs in transport and warehouse operations — a solid first step toward manager roles.

You’ll need several years of experience to land a transport manager position — whether in logistics, warehousing, or fleet operations.

If you have a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or a related field, you may start out as a logistician, analyzing supply chains to improve efficiency.

Other entry-level positions to look for, according to the Association for Supply Chain Management (ACSM), include:

You can also break into the industry by earning a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and starting out as a driver or by working in a warehouse role. These jobs don’t require a degree, and often offer on-the-job training that can lead to supervisory roles over time. However, keep in mind that you may have fewer advancement opportunities if you don’t have a degree or additional credentials.

The logistics industry is broad, and your responsibilities as transport manager will vary based on the overall focus of the company you work for.

For instance, if you work in manufacturing, you’ll mainly focus on procuring raw materials to produce products and ensuring the finished goods reach the market on time. If you work for a company managing passenger transport, you’ll focus on planning and scheduling routes that are safe and efficient.

According to the BLS, the main industries that transport managers work in are:

Whichever industry you work in, the BLS notes that transport managers need strong communication, critical thinking, and organizational skills.

Supply chain certificates help enhance your career prospects with relevant skills, even if you’re already an experienced professional.

For instance, APICS certifications are widely recognized in the industry. Earning a certification — and having several years of relevant experience — is a great way to increase your chances of landing a transport management position.

Some certifications you can consider pursuing include the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) and Certified in Transformation for Supply Chain (CTSC), both of which can help you build the expertise needed to solve supply chain challenges and improve logistics systems.

So you’ve gotten educated, put in years of experience in the logistics industry, gotten professional certifications, and are ready to apply for a transport management position.

Now it’s time to tailor your resume to highlight your leadership experience, understanding of logistics systems, and any achievements that show your ability to manage complex operations.

Also, try to look for openings in industries that match your background — whether that’s manufacturing, government, passenger transport, or wholesale trade.

If you’ve worked in the same company for some time, you can also try to get an internal promotion.

According to the BLS, it usually takes at least five years to become a transport manager, but there’s no set number of years of experience required to move into a management position.

Earning a relevant degree, taking on more responsibilities in your roles, and earning professional certifications can all help to improve your qualifications and make you a more competitive candidate.

Transport managers had a median annual salary of $102,010 as of May 2024, according to the BLS. However, salary can vary widely depending on industry, experience level, locations, and employer.

Here’s a look at the median annual salaries across the top industries employing transport managers in 2024:

Becoming a transport manager requires several years of experience, solid industry knowledge, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. With this in mind, here are some pros and cons to consider before pursuing this career: