At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in coordinating import/export shipments and support documentation processes.
- Company: Davies Turner, a leading UK freight forwarder with a family-owned legacy.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, competitive salary, private healthcare, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in international logistics with full training and mentorship.
- Qualifications: Interest in logistics, good communication skills, and basic IT literacy.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with a clear career path in a growing industry.
The predicted salary is between 21157 - 25000 £ per year.
Davies Turner has an exciting opportunity for a Freight Forwarding Trainee to join their team based in Southampton.
Location: Southampton, SO31 4RA
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Salary Range: £21,157 - £25,000 per annum
Closing Date: Friday 30 January 2026
About Davies Turner:
Davies Turner Plc is a British based multimodal freight forwarder specialising in logistics, e-commerce and warehousing. As one of the largest independent freight forwarding companies in the UK we manage freight from around the world, by road and rail, through the air and across the oceans. The business remains family owned and was founded in 1870 with 18 branches across the U.K. Our turnover is in excess of £225 million and rapidly growing with nearly 1,000 colleagues.
Freight Forwarding Trainee - The Role:
We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Freight Forwarding Trainee to join our team. This entry-level role is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to start a career in international logistics and freight forwarding. Full training will be provided. You will support the day-to-day operations of freight movements, learning how shipments are managed from origin to destination while working closely with experienced freight professionals.
Freight Forwarding Trainee - Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting with the coordination of import and export shipments
- Supporting documentation processes, including shipping and customs paperwork
- Communicating with customers, overseas agents, and carriers
- Tracking shipments and updating internal systems
- Ensuring compliance with company procedures and industry regulations
- Providing general administrative support to the freight forwarding team
Freight Forwarding Trainee - About You:
- Strong interest in logistics, freight forwarding, or international trade
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail
- Confident communication skills, both written and verbal
- Ability to work well as part of a team and manage priorities
- IT literate, with a basic understanding of Microsoft Office
- GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English preferred
Freight Forwarding Trainee - What We Offer:
- Starting holiday entitlement - 25 days plus bank holidays
- Comprehensive on-the-job training and mentoring
- A structured career path within a respected logistics company
- Opportunities for professional development and industry qualifications
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Supportive and professional working environment
- Life cover
- Profit related pay
- Defined pension contribution scheme
- Private healthcare
- Discounted in store and online benefit scheme
*some benefits are subject to a qualifying period
How to Apply:
If you are enthusiastic, eager to learn, and looking to build a long-term career in freight forwarding, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a brief covering statement outlining your interest in the role by clicking ‘Apply' now. The closing date for all applications is Friday 30 January 2026.
Freight Forwarding Trainee in Southampton employer: Davies Turner
Contact Detail:
Davies Turner Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Freight Forwarding Trainee in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the logistics and freight forwarding industry on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, engage in discussions, and don’t be shy to ask for informational interviews. You never know who might have a lead on a job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Davies Turner and understanding their operations. Familiarise yourself with key terms in freight forwarding and logistics. This will help you stand out and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be dealing with customers and agents, being articulate is key. Try mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Davies Turner. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Freight Forwarding Trainee in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Catchy CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with the Freight Forwarding Trainee role. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to tailor it to what we’re looking for!
Write a Personal Covering Statement: This is your chance to shine! In your covering statement, express your enthusiasm for logistics and why you want to join our team at Davies Turner. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we love to see passion!
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to mention your organisational skills and attention to detail in both your CV and covering statement. These are key traits for the role, and we want to know how you’ve demonstrated them in the past!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Davies Turner
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research Davies Turner and their role in the freight forwarding industry. Understand their services, values, and recent news. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Highlight your organisational skills and attention to detail during the interview. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed tasks or projects. This will demonstrate that you have what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced logistics environment.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Rehearse common interview questions related to logistics and customer service. Think about how you would handle specific scenarios, like dealing with shipment delays or communicating with clients. Practising your responses will help you feel more at ease on the day.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewers about the company culture, training opportunities, and career progression. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also helps you gauge if Davies Turner is the right fit for you.