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Logistics associate vs logistics planner

The differences between logistics associates and logistics planners can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 4-6 years to become both a logistics associate and a logistics planner. Additionally, a logistics planner has an average salary of $63,554, which is higher than the $36,379 average annual salary of a logistics associate.

The top three skills for a logistics associate include standard operating procedure, cycle counts and physical inventory. The most important skills for a logistics planner are customer service, supply chain, and continuous improvement.

Logistics associate vs logistics planner overview

Logistics AssociateLogistics Planner
Yearly salary$36,379$63,554
Hourly rate$17.49$30.55
Growth rate28%28%
Number of jobs16,53930,339
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 46%Bachelor's Degree, 64%
Average age4141
Years of experience66

What does a logistics associate do?

As a logistics associate, they assist with the timely distribution, storage, delivery, and inspection of products, both for incoming and outgoing. Logistics associates are needed to manage and maintain the inventory of products and materials. They process incoming and outgoing shipments, inspecting incoming shipments, entering and updating to the digital database for easier tracking. The job of logistics associates can vary based on the types of materials they handle and the environment where they work. They work independently and primarily report to a warehouse or retail manager.

What does a logistics planner do?

A logistics planner is responsible for tracking and monitoring the shipment operations of warehouse and distribution centers. Logistics planners assist with the project management procedures, identifying resources, calculating cost and expenses reports, and the manufacturing timetables. They also coordinate with suppliers and third-party vendors to verify delivery and shipment details and ensure clear and accurate specifics. A logistics planner must have excellent communication and organizational skills, especially on data processing procedures and updating product information on the database.

Logistics associate vs logistics planner salary

Logistics associates and logistics planners have different pay scales, as shown below.

Logistics AssociateLogistics Planner
Average salary$36,379$63,554
Salary rangeBetween $28,000 And $46,000Between $48,000 And $83,000
Highest paying CityBaltimore, MDBaltimore, MD
Highest paying stateMarylandMaryland
Best paying companyDCP MidstreamIntuitive Surgical
Best paying industryProfessionalManufacturing

Differences between logistics associate and logistics planner education

There are a few differences between a logistics associate and a logistics planner in terms of educational background:

Logistics AssociateLogistics Planner
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 46%Bachelor's Degree, 64%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common collegeStanford UniversityStanford University

Logistics associate vs logistics planner demographics

Here are the differences between logistics associates' and logistics planners' demographics:

Logistics AssociateLogistics Planner
Average age4141
Gender ratioMale, 66.5% Female, 33.5%Male, 65.0% Female, 35.0%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 12.6% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 21.1% Asian, 10.1% White, 50.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3%Black or African American, 12.5% Unknown, 5.2% Hispanic or Latino, 19.5% Asian, 11.4% White, 51.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4%
LGBT Percentage9%9%

Differences between logistics associate and logistics planner duties and responsibilities

Logistics associate example responsibilities.

  • Manage supply reorders, printing labels, domestic shipping, service and software support with FedEx.
  • Supply documentation to freight forwarders and carriers as necessary.
  • Work with freight forwarders to resolve issues and solve problems regarding transportation internationally and domestically.
  • Clean, sterilize, and fully stock ambulances prior to shift.
  • Put together freight for outgoing shipments, both LTL and small package.
  • Complete daily parcel and LTL orders, maintain inventory levels, and collaborate with multiple departments on large projects.
  • Show more

Logistics planner example responsibilities.

  • Manage communication among freight forwarders, trucking companies, and warehouse representatives.
  • Navigate ERP system, while planning, to determine shipment needs shown in the EDI.
  • Develop spreadsheet macros to extract critical data from ERP reports that reduce processing time from hours to minutes.
  • Assist military personnel in scheduling line haul, tanker, flatb, HAZMAT and triple / double missions.
  • Ensure safety regulations are follow included HAZMAT regulations.
  • Facilitate pilot requirements of MRP application for fuel tank business.
  • Show more

Logistics associate vs logistics planner skills

Common logistics associate skills
  • Standard Operating Procedure, 27%
  • Cycle Counts, 25%
  • Physical Inventory, 19%
  • Shipping Receiving, 5%
  • Pallet Jack, 3%
  • Pallets, 2%
Common logistics planner skills
  • Customer Service, 17%
  • Supply Chain, 14%
  • Continuous Improvement, 6%
  • DOD, 5%
  • On-Time Delivery, 4%
  • Provide Technical Assistance, 4%

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