Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
Transportation, storage, and distribution managers plan and oversee the movement and storage of goods for organizations. They work in warehouses, distribution centers, trucking companies, retail operations, and manufacturing facilities. The role involves coordinating logistics networks, managing staff, ensuring compliance with regulations, and optimizing efficiency across supply chains.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against transportation, storage, and distribution managers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes reviewing shipment schedules, monitoring warehouse operations, and resolving delivery delays. Managers may conduct safety inspections, analyze cost data to improve efficiency, coordinate with drivers and warehouse staff, and communicate with clients about shipment status. They work with inventory systems, budget reports, and logistics software. Some time is spent in offices; other time is spent on warehouse floors or at distribution sites.
Who this work suits
Holland code ECR. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited for this work if you like organizing systems, following procedures, and making things run smoothly—traits common in conventional personalities. If you're enterprising, you'll appreciate managing teams and solving problems to improve operations. You need to be detail-oriented, comfortable with data and regulations, and able to handle the logistics of moving goods efficiently.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $124,290 | $145,000 | $176,010 | 310 |
| Washington | $106,090 | $136,500 | $166,730 | 2,490 |
| Colorado | $102,490 | $132,610 | $167,200 | 2,310 |
| District of Columbia | $105,750 | $132,180 | $189,950 | 610 |
| New Jersey | $105,080 | $130,610 | $169,390 | 9,120 |
| New Hampshire | $102,230 | $129,470 | $161,660 | 530 |
| New York | $99,080 | $127,180 | $163,210 | 6,740 |
| Massachusetts | $94,990 | $123,830 | $169,740 | 4,310 |
| California | $86,290 | $123,780 | $166,100 | 30,540 |
| Georgia | $94,240 | $123,330 | $164,650 | 6,700 |
| Illinois | $91,940 | $120,250 | $156,020 | 11,030 |
| Virginia | $93,570 | $119,140 | $157,250 | 3,380 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified in Logistics,Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) — Association for Supply Chain Management
- Certified Transportation Broker (CTB) — Transportation Intermediaries Association
- Director of Pupil Transportation (CDPT) — National Association for Pupil Transportation
- Certified Professional in Distribution and Warehouse Management (CPDW) — American Purchasing Society
- Class A Underground Storage Tank System Operator (UST - A) — Environmental Protection Agency
- Certified Transportation Professional (CTP) — National Private Truck Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
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Four short assessments and your background, scored against transportation, storage, and distribution managers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 11-3071.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.