The operational backbone of supply chains: Freight Transport and Warehouse Management

In a world where instant delivery and low-cost goods have become the norm, logistics professionals are facing more pressure - and more opportunity - than ever before. If you are looking to build or pivot your career towards a critical, fast-evolving sector, understanding freight transport and warehouse management is essential.

As part of our online MSc in Supply Chain Management and Logistics, the Freight Transport and Warehouse Management course takes you into the operational backbone of supply chains. It provides you with the tools and insight to design, evaluate and lead high-performance logistics networks in today’s demanding business environment.

Why freight and warehouse operations matter more than ever

Not long ago, logistics was seen as something that happened quietly in the background. That has now dramatically changed. With globalisation, the rise of e-commerce and new technologies, people now expect goods to move faster and more cheaply than ever before.

The industry growth reflects this shift. According to The Data City’s UK Supply Chain Logistics Industry Snapshot (June 2025), the sector is forecast to reach £50.8 billion by 2026. This sharp rise highlights the increasing strategic importance of logistics across every industry in the UK.

"Where once transport and logistics networks were seen as peripheral to business success, almost an afterthought, they very much moved to being a key strategic driver, following the lead of global successes, such as Amazon, whose growth was built on supply chain excellence", explains course leader Florian Scheuring.

A sector transformed by disruption

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the extent to which we rely on robust and adaptable logistics systems. From port congestion to driver shortages and container imbalances, freight transport became front-page news.

"These events really shone a spotlight, not only on how reliant we are on well-functioning supply chains but also how the drive for efficiency and low cost can introduce fragility," says Florian.

This realisation has sparked a shift in mindset - from efficiency at any cost to building resilient, sustainable and scalable logistics operations. This course is designed to help you be part of that shift.

Practical knowledge for complex systems

You will explore how to specify and select freight and warehousing operations that meet evolving business needs. The course goes beyond theory to equip you with decision-making tools relevant to real-world challenges, whether you are operating regionally or globally.

It is suited to professionals working in logistics, manufacturing or retail who want to understand:

• The core concepts in freight transport and warehouse management
• How to select a suitable freight transport and warehouse operations to meet business needs
• How to align corporate strategy with cost-efficiency and sustainability goals

A forward-looking approach

This course does not just look at current practices - it prepares you for what is next. Technological shifts, sustainability requirements and heightened customer expectations mean logistics professionals must constantly adapt.

"The increased prominence of supply chain activity in corporate strategy and the rapid rate of change delivering environmental and efficiency benefits make it an exciting time to be involved in logistics”, says Florian.

You will gain insight into both long-standing principles and emerging trends, helping you anticipate change rather than react to it.

Designed for professionals balancing study and work

As part of our fully online MSc programme, this course is built to fit around your schedule. You can apply what you learn to your role straight away and progress without stepping out of your career.

The wider programme includes modules in green and sustainable logistics, humanitarian logistics, operations management and systems thinking, giving you a broad skillset with the ability to specialise.

You’ll also have access to over 500 industry certificates through Coursera Career Academy to supplement your learning in a way that suits your chosen career path.

Equip yourself for leadership in logistics

If you want a role where you can make a measurable difference to business performance, operational resilience and sustainability, freight and warehouse management offers more than functional value - it is a leadership opportunity.

You will be joining a sector that is rapidly evolving, closely linked to global issues and increasingly vital to organisational success.

This course will prepare you for roles such as:

• Distribution Manager
• Warehouse Manager
• Logistics Manager
• Freight Operations Manager
• Customs Broker

Your skills will also be valued in roles focused on operations, resilience planning or service delivery.

Shape the future of logistics

As logistics operations become more central to corporate strategy, professionals who understand both the fundamentals and the direction of change will be in high demand. This course offers you a clear path to develop expertise that delivers value across industries.

Whether you are advancing in your current field or changing direction, you will gain the knowledge to lead with confidence and purpose.

Explore our online MSc in Supply Chain Management and Logistics.

Any questions? Email our Enrolment Advisors at HWOnlineApps@hw.ac.uk