Working as a Freight Forwarding and Logistics Services Clerk (Kaufmann/-frau für Spedition und Logistikdienstleistung) in Germany
Freight forwarding clerks organise shipments by road, rail, air and sea, calculate costs and communicate with customers, carriers and customs offices. The role is less physically demanding than warehouse or driving roles but requires stronger German and commercial accuracy.
What the job involves
- Plan transport routes
- Prepare freight and customs documents
- Calculate costs and offers
- Coordinate carriers and customers
- Track deliveries
Requirements
- Vocational commercial logistics training
- German B2 for customers and documents
- English helpful for international shipments
- Accuracy with documents and deadlines
Recognition of your qualification
A foreign commercial logistics qualification normally needs Anerkennung for §18a skilled-worker employment, unless the candidate uses a different academic or training route.
German you'll need
This role typically expects around B2. Some employers start in English, but German is needed for everyday work.
What you can earn
| During training | €850–€1,200 / month (gross) |
| Entry level | €2,600–€3,300 / month (gross) |
| Experienced | €3,300–€4,600 / month (gross) |
Indicative gross monthly pay — varies by region, employer and collective agreements.
Possible routes to Germany
Depending on your situation, these routes may apply:
- Skilled Worker with vocational training (§18a) after recognition
- Recognition Partnership (§16d AufenthG)
- Vocational training visa (§16a)
- Opportunity Card / Chancenkarte (§20a, points)
Typical employers
- International freight forwarders (DHL Global Forwarding, DB Schenker, Kühne+Nagel)
- Port and airport logistics firms
- Customs brokers
- Industrial logistics departments
- E-commerce logistics providers
Outlook
Digital tools automate routine booking, but complex transport planning, customs issues and customer communication still require skilled staff. International trade keeps demand stable to high.
Your next steps
- Prepare proof of logistics or forwarding training
- Check recognition for the commercial vocational qualification
- Improve German business writing to B2
- Apply to freight forwarders with international teams
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Federal Employment Agency - BERUFENET · Make-it-in-Germany
General information, as of 2025. DeutschBound provides orientation and German-language training — not legal advice, visa application services or job guarantees. Always confirm current requirements with the official sources above.