Terminal manager vs distribution supervisor

The differences between terminal managers and distribution supervisors can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a terminal manager, becoming a distribution supervisor takes usually requires 4-6 years. Additionally, a terminal manager has an average salary of $74,237, which is higher than the $62,458 average annual salary of a distribution supervisor.

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

Terminal manager vs distribution supervisor overview

	Terminal Manager	Distribution Supervisor
Yearly salary	$74,237	$62,458
Hourly rate	$35.69	$30.03
Growth rate	6%	-
Number of jobs	16,792	42,619
Job satisfaction	-	-
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 58%	Bachelor's Degree, 56%
Average age	45	45
Years of experience	4	6

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.

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.

Terminal manager vs distribution supervisor salary

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

	Terminal Manager	Distribution Supervisor
Average salary	$74,237	$62,458
Salary range	Between $55,000 And $99,000	Between $40,000 And $96,000
Highest paying City	San Leandro, CA	Reno, NV
Highest paying state	Virginia	Nevada
Best paying company	Hub Group	Agilent Technologies
Best paying industry	Energy	Manufacturing

Differences between terminal manager and distribution supervisor education

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

	Terminal Manager	Distribution Supervisor
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 58%	Bachelor's Degree, 56%
Most common major	Business	Business
Most common college	Stanford University	Stanford University

Terminal manager vs distribution supervisor demographics

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

	Terminal Manager	Distribution Supervisor
Average age	45	45
Gender ratio	Male, 87.4% Female, 12.6%	Male, 82.7% Female, 17.3%
Race ratio	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%	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 Percentage	5%	5%

Differences between terminal manager and distribution supervisor duties and responsibilities

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.

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.

Terminal manager vs distribution supervisor skills

Common terminal manager skills

Customer Service, 15%
DOT, 13%
OSHA, 5%
Payroll, 4%
Facility Maintenance, 4%
Customer Satisfaction, 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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Terminal Manager
Terminal Manager vs Distribution Supervisor

Updated January 8, 2025

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