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Logistics supervisor vs distribution supervisor

The differences between logistics supervisors and distribution supervisors 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 supervisor and a distribution supervisor. Additionally, a logistics supervisor has an average salary of $65,301, which is higher than the $62,458 average annual salary of a distribution supervisor.

The top three skills for a logistics supervisor include continuous improvement, customer service and direct reports. The most important skills for a distribution supervisor are customer service, logistics, and continuous improvement.

Logistics supervisor vs distribution supervisor overview

Logistics SupervisorDistribution Supervisor
Yearly salary$65,301$62,458
Hourly rate$31.39$30.03
Growth rate6%-
Number of jobs32,54842,619
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 53%Bachelor's Degree, 56%
Average age4545
Years of experience66

What does a logistics supervisor do?

A logistics supervisor is an individual tasked to oversee goods shipment and delivery in organizations. Supervisors manage the planning, organization, and implementation of the company's systems. They take responsibility for managing the inventory of warehouse stocks based on the foreseeable requirements. It is part of their job to schedule deliveries and pickups with the internal staff or transportation companies. Their skills should include adaptability, project management proficiency, and communication skills.

What does a distribution supervisor do?

A distribution supervisor is in charge of overseeing all distribution processes in a warehouse or similar setting, ensuring accuracy and smooth workflow. Their responsibilities typically revolve around coordinating deliveries and shipment, managing schedules, delegating tasks, assessing the performance of the workforce, and maintaining records of all transactions. Should there be any issues or concerns, it is essential to resolve them promptly and efficiently. Furthermore, as a supervisor, it is vital to lead and encourage the employees to reach goals and deadlines, all while implementing the company's policies and regulations.

Logistics supervisor vs distribution supervisor salary

Logistics supervisors and distribution supervisors have different pay scales, as shown below.

Logistics SupervisorDistribution Supervisor
Average salary$65,301$62,458
Salary rangeBetween $47,000 And $89,000Between $40,000 And $96,000
Highest paying CityWarren, MIReno, NV
Highest paying stateMichiganNevada
Best paying companySouthern California EdisonAgilent Technologies
Best paying industryTechnologyManufacturing

Differences between logistics supervisor and distribution supervisor education

There are a few differences between a logistics supervisor and a distribution supervisor in terms of educational background:

Logistics SupervisorDistribution Supervisor
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 53%Bachelor's Degree, 56%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common collegeStanford UniversityStanford University

Logistics supervisor vs distribution supervisor demographics

Here are the differences between logistics supervisors' and distribution supervisors' demographics:

Logistics SupervisorDistribution Supervisor
Average age4545
Gender ratioMale, 77.4% Female, 22.6%Male, 82.7% Female, 17.3%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 11.3% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 18.7% Asian, 6.1% White, 59.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4%Black or African American, 11.3% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 18.7% Asian, 6.1% White, 59.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4%
LGBT Percentage5%5%

Differences between logistics supervisor and distribution supervisor duties and responsibilities

Logistics supervisor example responsibilities.

  • Achieve continuous efficiency gains by leveraging WMS capabilities and implementing sustainable operating procedures.
  • Manage distribution center activities for global and domestic inbound and outbound shipping, and export documentation.
  • Lead organization's governmental and regulatory compliance office which result in no violation findings during federal oversight inspections.
  • Increase group efficiency as measured by time and quantity parameters using ERP system and daily records.
  • Provide guidance to business units with regards to government and carrier transportation regulations (HazMat LQ/ORM-D).
  • Ensure a safe working environment for all employees in accordance with current safety and OSHA requirements and directives.
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Distribution supervisor example responsibilities.

  • Begin the implementation of standard work and lead kaizen event to standardize pack stations.
  • Manage warehouse technology including RF, packing systems, shipping systems, and forklift operations.
  • Develop the WMS training program and lead the team in the design of WMS process rules.
  • Have led cost saving initiatives including staffing, a DC expansion, and customization of WMS.
  • Manage all logistics including ocean and air imports, exports and domestic distribution via TL, LTL, and small parcel.
  • Comply with cleanliness standards, government regulations, and safety requirements, including OSHA, FDA, and HACCP.
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Logistics supervisor vs distribution supervisor skills

Common logistics supervisor skills
  • Continuous Improvement, 9%
  • Customer Service, 9%
  • Direct Reports, 8%
  • OSHA, 7%
  • Shipping Receiving, 5%
  • Safety Procedures, 4%
Common distribution supervisor skills
  • Customer Service, 11%
  • Logistics, 10%
  • Continuous Improvement, 6%
  • OSHA, 5%
  • Inventory Control, 4%
  • Shipping Receiving, 4%

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