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Distribution manager vs terminal manager

The differences between distribution managers and terminal managers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 4-6 years to become a distribution manager, becoming a terminal manager takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a distribution manager has an average salary of $89,264, which is higher than the $74,237 average annual salary of a terminal manager.

The top three skills for a distribution manager include customer service, logistics and continuous improvement. The most important skills for a terminal manager are customer service, DOT, and OSHA.

Distribution manager vs terminal manager overview

Distribution ManagerTerminal Manager
Yearly salary$89,264$74,237
Hourly rate$42.92$35.69
Growth rate6%6%
Number of jobs39,06116,792
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 66%Bachelor's Degree, 58%
Average age4545
Years of experience64

What does a distribution manager do?

A distribution manager is responsible for managing the distribution of goods and services, ensuring the adequacy of merchandise in the storage, and monitoring the products' timely delivery to appropriate locations. Distribution managers process shipments and utilize software systems to track stock levels and order status, negotiate contracts with suppliers and third-party vendors, identify business opportunities to boost maximum productivity and performance, and develop supply strategies to minimize costs without compromising quality. A distribution manager must have excellent communication and critical-thinking skills to manage business performance by coordinating with different teams on achieving business goals and objectives.

What does a terminal manager do?

Terminal managers are professionals who are responsible for managing workers and direct dispatching activities of logistics vehicles. These managers are required to develop relationships with corporate and operational departments so that they can ensure the company logistics standards are met. They must resolve customer service complaints by implementing satisfactory solutions to retain customers. Terminal drivers must train new drivers so that they can be licensed, tested, and certified according to federal and state laws. They are also required to maintain a clean and safe working condition of their facility and equipment.

Distribution manager vs terminal manager salary

Distribution managers and terminal managers have different pay scales, as shown below.

Distribution ManagerTerminal Manager
Average salary$89,264$74,237
Salary rangeBetween $62,000 And $128,000Between $55,000 And $99,000
Highest paying CityRedmond, WASan Leandro, CA
Highest paying stateWashingtonVirginia
Best paying companyLevi Strauss & Co.Hub Group
Best paying industryTechnologyEnergy

Differences between distribution manager and terminal manager education

There are a few differences between a distribution manager and a terminal manager in terms of educational background:

Distribution ManagerTerminal Manager
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 66%Bachelor's Degree, 58%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common collegeStanford UniversityStanford University

Distribution manager vs terminal manager demographics

Here are the differences between distribution managers' and terminal managers' demographics:

Distribution ManagerTerminal Manager
Average age4545
Gender ratioMale, 82.6% Female, 17.4%Male, 87.4% Female, 12.6%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 11.1% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 18.5% Asian, 6.1% White, 59.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4%Black or African American, 11.1% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 18.3% Asian, 6.1% White, 59.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4%
LGBT Percentage5%5%

Differences between distribution manager and terminal manager duties and responsibilities

Distribution manager example responsibilities.

  • Manage all logistics including ocean and air imports, exports and domestic distribution via TL, LTL, and small parcel.
  • Compose and employ initial ISO procedures to attain certification.
  • Manage twenty-five team members during process of unloading trailers to include accurately processing and locating merchandise throughout warehouse with RF devices.
  • Earn FDA and GMP certification at a start-up distribution-base facility in five months.
  • Develop a training program that effectively trains employees in accordance with FDA guidelines.
  • Budget and target tracking to sales goals with direct account responsibility for OEM and price sensitive customers.
  • Show more

Terminal manager example responsibilities.

  • Manage all CDL drivers files, medical re-certifications, and random drug and alcohol testing.
  • Utilize company trucks and outside carriers to achieve proper and JIT deliveries of order goods.
  • Provide route profitability analysis as directed, manage transportation GPS process.
  • Manage all truckload and LTL warehouse operations including consolidation and distribution for several customers.
  • Coordinate logistics process, freight movement, and contractor activities managing inbound/outbound freight, customer service and administration.
  • Manage inventory of inbound ocean containers, coordinate and schedule TL operations, supervise yard hostlers and manage outbound trailer traffic.
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Distribution manager vs terminal manager skills

Common distribution manager skills
  • Customer Service, 14%
  • Logistics, 10%
  • Continuous Improvement, 6%
  • OSHA, 5%
  • Operational Procedures, 4%
  • Distribution Operations, 4%
Common terminal manager skills
  • Customer Service, 15%
  • DOT, 13%
  • OSHA, 5%
  • Payroll, 4%
  • Facility Maintenance, 4%
  • Customer Satisfaction, 4%

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