Logistics Coordinator Jobs in Canada: What You Need to Know (2025)

Logistics coordinator jobs are basically for people who make sure stuff gets where it needs to go, when it needs to be there, without everything falling apart in the process.

You’re coordinating shipments—figuring out how products move from suppliers to warehouses to customers. Also, you’re tracking inventory so the company doesn’t run out of critical materials or end up with too much stock gathering dust. You’re scheduling deliveries, managing transportation, dealing with customs paperwork if items cross borders, and constantly putting out fires when things inevitably go wrong.

And things go wrong a lot. A shipment gets delayed at the border. A supplier misses their delivery window. The weather shuts down a major route. A warehouse is at capacity. Part of your job is anticipating these problems and having backup plans, or scrambling to solve them when they hit unexpectedly.

You’re also the communication hub between multiple departments. Procurement needs to know when materials will arrive. The warehouse needs schedules so they can staff appropriately. Sales wants to know if they can promise delivery dates to customers. Production needs components to keep lines running. Everyone’s asking you questions, and you need answers.

It’s not a glamorous job, but it’s essential. Companies literally can’t operate without someone coordinating logistics. And in Canada—with its massive geography, complex trade relationships, and mix of industries—logistics coordinators are consistently needed.

What the Role Looks Like Day-to-Day

Let me give you a more concrete picture of what you’d actually be doing.

Your morning might start with reviewing shipment schedules and checking for delays or issues overnight. You’re looking at tracking systems, scanning emails from carriers and suppliers, making sure everything that was supposed to move actually moved.

You spend time on the phone or emailing with freight companies, negotiating rates, arranging pickups, and confirming delivery times. If a shipment’s delayed, you’re figuring out alternatives—can we expedite through a different carrier? Can we reroute? What’s the cost difference?

You’re updating inventory systems, making sure what the computer says matches what’s actually in the warehouse. Also, you’re generating reports for management showing shipping costs, delivery performance, and inventory levels. You’re identifying inefficiencies—maybe one carrier consistently runs late, or a particular route is too expensive.

You attend meetings with other departments. Production wants to know when raw materials arrive. Sales needs shipping estimates for customer orders. You’re providing updates, managing expectations, and sometimes delivering bad news about delays.

You’re dealing with documentation—customs paperwork for international shipments, bills of lading, shipping manifests, and insurance certificates. There’s a lot of paperwork in logistics, and it needs to be accurate or shipments get held up.

Some days are calm and routine. Other days are chaos—a major shipment is stuck at customs, production is about to halt because materials haven’t arrived, and a key customer needs an emergency delivery. You’re juggling multiple urgent problems simultaneously, trying to keep everyone moving.

It’s a job that requires organization, communication, problem-solving under pressure, and the ability to handle multiple competing priorities without losing track of details.

What You Actually Need to Get Hired

According to Canada’s Job Bank, the typical requirement is some post-secondary education—usually a diploma or certificate in business, supply chain management, or logistics. We’re talking 1-2 years of study, not a full four-year degree in most cases.

But here’s the thing: experience often matters more than formal education. Plenty of logistics coordinators worked their way up from warehouse roles, dispatch positions, or administrative jobs in supply chain departments. If you’ve got a couple of years of relevant experience, many employers will overlook the lack of a formal logistics diploma.

The role isn’t regulated in Canada, so there’s no mandatory certification you must have to work as a logistics coordinator. But certain credentials can make you more competitive:

CCLP (Canadian Certified Logistics Professional)

This is from the Logistics Institute shows you understand supply chain fundamentals.

CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional)

This is from APICS is internationally recognized and demonstrates deeper knowledge.

Transportation and logistics certificates

This is from community colleges can be completed in months and provides practical skills employers value.

But honestly, for entry-level coordinator roles, these certifications aren’t required. They’re more valuable when you’re trying to move up or transition from other fields.

The skills employers actually care about:

Software proficiency.

You need to be comfortable with logistics and inventory management systems. Common ones include SAP, Oracle, JDA, or industry-specific platforms. Excel skills are non-negotiable—you’re constantly working with spreadsheets, tracking data, and creating reports.

Communication skills.

You’re talking to suppliers, carriers, warehouse staff, internal teams, and sometimes customers. You need to be clear, professional, and able to handle difficult conversations when shipments go wrong.

Organization and attention to detail.

You’re juggling multiple shipments, deadlines, and requirements simultaneously. Missing a detail—like a required customs document—can cause expensive delays.

Problem-solving under pressure.

When things go wrong (and they will), you need to think quickly, evaluate options, and make decisions that minimize damage.

Negotiation skills.

You’re often negotiating rates with carriers, trying to get better delivery times, or working out solutions when suppliers can’t meet commitments.

What Logistics Coordinators Actually Earn in Canada

Let’s talk real numbers, because compensation varies significantly depending on location, industry, and experience.

According to Job Bank data, hourly wages for logistics coordinators in Canada range from about $20 to $43 per hour. The median sits around $28/hour, which translates to roughly $58,000 annually if you’re working full-time.

But that’s a broad national average. Location makes a huge difference.

In Toronto, median wages are around $28-29/hour. That’s $58,000-60,000 annually. Given Toronto’s high cost of living, this salary is decent but not generous—you’re comfortable but not flush with cash.

In Montreal, the range is similar—$23 to $47/hour, with most positions clustered in the mid-to-upper $20s per hour.

In Vancouver, expect similar ranges to Toronto, possibly slightly higher given the cost of living.

Also, in smaller cities or regions outside major metros, wages can be somewhat lower—$22-26/hour is common—but your cost of living is also significantly lower, so your purchasing power might actually be better.

According to Glassdoor, reported salaries for logistics coordinators across Canada range from about $41,000 to $56,000 annually for most positions, with more experienced coordinators or those in specialized industries (like pharmaceutical logistics or perishable goods) earning $60,000-75,000.

Hays’ 2023 salary guide places logistics coordinators in the $55,000-75,000 range nationally, which aligns with the upper end of what you’ll see for experienced coordinators or those in more demanding industries.

Starting salaries for entry-level coordinators are typically $40,000-50,000. With 3-5 years of experience, you’re looking at $55,000-65,000. Senior logistics coordinators or those who move into supervisor or manager roles can push into the $70,000-90,000+ range.

Industry also matters. Logistics coordinator jobs in manufacturing, oil and gas, or specialized sectors often earn more than those in retail or general distribution.

The Job Market Reality in Canada for Logistics Coordinator Jobs

The outlook for logistics coordinator jobs in Canada is… mixed. It varies significantly by region and sector.

Logistics coordinators fall under NOC 13201 (Production and transportation logistics coordinators) in Canada’s National Occupational Classification system. According to Job Bank regional outlooks:

Some regions have moderate job prospects. Hamilton-Niagara, for example, has steady demand for logistics coordinators, driven by manufacturing and distribution activities in the region.

Other regions, like Montreal, have more limited prospects through 2024-2026. There are jobs, but competition is higher relative to openings.

Some smaller regions actually have good outlooks—places like Kingston-Pembroke or certain parts of Manitoba show stronger demand relative to supply.

Here’s what’s driving demand:

E-commerce growth continues, pushing the need for logistics coordination. Companies shipping to consumers need people managing those operations.

Supply chain disruptions over the past few years highlighted how critical logistics roles are. Companies are investing in better supply chain management, which means more coordination roles.

Canada’s geography creates ongoing logistics challenges. Moving goods across such a vast country with concentrated population centers means logistics is always complex and always need coordination.

Manufacturing and resource sectors in Canada rely heavily on logistics for moving raw materials and finished products.

But there are also factors limiting growth:

Automation is handling more routine logistics tasks. Software can now auto-schedule shipments, optimize routes, and track inventory with minimal human input.

Economic uncertainty means some companies are cautious about hiring. When businesses slow down, logistics coordination needs shrink.

Consolidation in some industries means fewer but larger logistics operations, which can reduce total coordinator positions even if the work volume is similar.

The bottom line: logistics coordinator jobs exist across Canada, and the role isn’t disappearing. But it’s not a boom field with massive growth projections. It’s steady, essential work with moderate competition in most markets.

Where Logistics Coordinators Actually Work

The role exists across multiple industries, and the specifics vary significantly depending on the sector.

Manufacturing companies

They hire for logistics coordinator jobs to manage inbound raw materials and outbound finished goods. You’re coordinating with suppliers to ensure production lines don’t stop due to missing components, and you’re scheduling shipments to customers or distribution centers.

In manufacturing, the pace can be intense. Production schedules are tight, and delays cascade quickly. You need to be proactive and have strong relationships with suppliers.

Retail and e-commerce companies

They need logistics coordinators to manage inventory flowing to stores or directly to consumers. You’re tracking shipments from suppliers (often overseas), coordinating warehouse operations, and ensuring stores stay stocked or consumer orders ship on time.

E-commerce logistics moves fast—customers expect quick delivery, and you’re managing high volumes of small shipments rather than large bulk movements.

Third-party logistics providers (3PLs)

These are companies that handle logistics for other businesses. As a coordinator at a 3PL, you might be managing logistics for multiple clients simultaneously, each with different requirements and priorities.

Working for a 3PL exposes you to various industries and logistics challenges. It’s a great experience, but it can be demanding because you’re serving multiple clients with competing needs.

Distribution and warehousing companies

They employ coordinators to manage incoming and outgoing shipments, optimize warehouse operations, and coordinate with transportation carriers.

Import/export companies and customs brokers

They need coordinators who understand international shipping, customs regulations, and cross-border logistics. If you’re in a region like Vancouver or Montreal with major ports, these roles are common.

Food and beverage companies

They have specialized logistics needs—perishable goods require temperature-controlled transport, tight schedules, and careful coordination to prevent spoilage.

Transportation and freight companies

They employ coordinators to manage their networks, schedule pickups and deliveries, and optimize routes.

The industry you work in significantly affects your day-to-day experience, stress levels, and career trajectory.

How the Job Differs Across Canada’s Regions

Canada’s geography and regional economies create different logistics environments across the country.

Greater Toronto Area and Southern Ontario is Canada’s manufacturing heartland and a major distribution hub. There are lots of logistics jobs here, but also more competition. The complexity is high—you’re dealing with cross-border shipments to the US, imports from overseas, and distribution across Canada.

Montreal and Quebec has significant port activity, manufacturing, and serves as a distribution hub for Eastern Canada. Bilingualism (English and French) can be a significant advantage in Quebec logistics roles.

Vancouver and BC is the gateway for trade with Asia. Logistics coordinator roles here often involve international shipping, port operations, and managing goods flowing into Canada from overseas.

Calgary and Alberta has logistics tied to oil and gas, agriculture, and increasingly tech sectors. The resource sector creates specialized logistics needs—moving heavy equipment, managing supply chains for remote sites.

Winnipeg and the Prairies have significant distribution activity because of its central location. Several major distribution centers operate here, serving both Eastern and Western Canada.

Atlantic Canada has smaller but steady logistics sectors tied to fishing, manufacturing, and serving the regional population. Job opportunities are fewer, but competition is also lower.

If you’re willing to be geographically flexible, you can find logistics coordinator roles across Canada. But the concentration of opportunities and the types of logistics work vary significantly by region.

Career Progression in Logistics Coordinator Jobs: Where Do You Go From Here?

Logistics coordinator jobs are often a stepping stone to a mid-level role. Where can it lead?

Many coordinators move into senior logistics coordinator or logistics specialist roles after 3-5 years. You’re handling more complex accounts, mentoring junior coordinators, or specializing in areas like international shipping or vendor management.

From there, logistics supervisor or logistics manager roles involve overseeing teams of coordinators, managing larger operations, and having budget responsibility. You’re making strategic decisions about carriers, warehouse locations, and process improvements.

Supply chain manager or supply chain analyst roles are natural progressions if you develop analytical and strategic skills. You’re looking at the entire supply chain, identifying efficiencies, and supporting business strategy.

Some coordinators move into purchasing or procurement roles, leveraging their knowledge of suppliers, transportation, and costs.

Others transition into warehouse management or operations management, running facilities rather than just coordinating shipments.

Transportation or distribution management roles involve overseeing transportation networks, managing relationships with carriers, and optimizing shipping operations.

With additional education—like an MBA or specialized supply chain certifications—you could eventually move into a director of logistics, VP of supply chain, or similar senior leadership positions.

The key is that the logistics coordinator isn’t necessarily a dead-end role. It’s a foundation that can lead multiple directions depending on your interests and how you develop your skills.

How to Actually Land Logistics Coordinator Jobs in Canada

Let’s get practical about the job search.

Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience. Even if you haven’t been a logistics coordinator before, you might have transferable experience. Did you schedule or dispatch? Manage inventory? Coordinate between departments? Handle customer service in a shipping context? Track orders? Emphasize these skills.

Use logistics-specific keywords: supply chain coordination, shipment scheduling, inventory management, vendor relations, transportation management, customs documentation, freight forwarding, ERP systems.

Target industries actively hiring. Check job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Job Bank for who’s consistently posting logistics coordinator positions. E-commerce companies, 3PLs, manufacturing firms, and distribution centers are frequent hirers.

Consider starting in a related role. If you can’t land a coordinator position immediately, roles like warehouse associate, dispatch clerk, shipping/receiving clerk, or supply chain assistant can be stepping stones. You gain industry knowledge and can move into coordination roles after demonstrating capability.

Highlight software skills. If you know SAP, Oracle, or other supply chain management systems, make that prominent. If you don’t, consider taking online courses to gain basic familiarity. Even strong Excel skills (pivot tables, vlookup, data analysis) are valuable and worth highlighting.

Network in the supply chain community. Join LinkedIn groups focused on Canadian supply chain and logistics. Attend local supply chain association events or webinars. Connect with logistics managers and coordinators at companies you’re interested in. Many logistics jobs are filled through referrals before they’re widely advertised.

Be geographically flexible if possible. If you’re willing to relocate to regions with better job outlooks—like certain parts of Ontario, Manitoba, or the Prairies—you’ll have more opportunities and less competition.

Consider temp or contract work initially. Some logistics coordinator roles are filled through staffing agencies or start as contract positions. These can be entry points that lead to permanent roles if you perform well.

Common Interview Questions and What Employers Actually Want

When you land an interview for logistics coordinator jobs, here’s what they’re likely to ask:

“Tell me about a time you dealt with a shipping or logistics problem.” They want to hear about your problem-solving process. Describe the issue, what you did to resolve it, and the outcome. Be specific—”A shipment was delayed at customs due to missing documentation. I coordinated with the customs broker to expedite the paperwork, arranged for priority clearance, and rescheduled delivery to minimize production impact.”

“How do you prioritize when you have multiple urgent requests?” They’re assessing your ability to handle pressure and competing demands. Talk about how you evaluate urgency, communicate with stakeholders, and make decisions about what gets handled first.

“What logistics software are you familiar with?” Be honest but also show willingness to learn. If you know specific systems, describe how you’ve used them. If not, mention your general tech aptitude and experience learning new software quickly.

“How do you handle difficult suppliers or carriers?” They want to know you can maintain professional relationships even when things go wrong. Emphasize communication, finding solutions, and staying calm under pressure.

“Describe your experience with inventory management.” Talk about any systems you’ve used, how you’ve tracked inventory, dealt with discrepancies, or coordinated stock levels with demand.

What employers are really looking for beyond specific answers:

Communication skills. Can you articulate clearly? Do you seem like someone who can handle difficult conversations professionally?

Organizational ability. Do you seem like someone who can track multiple details without dropping balls?

Problem-solving mindset. Do you get flustered easily or do you approach problems methodically?

Cultural fit. Will you work well with their team? Logistics requires collaboration, and they want someone who fits their environment.

The Challenges You Should Know About Logistics Coordinator Jobs

Let’s be honest about the less appealing aspects of logistics coordinator jobs.

The hours can be unpredictable. While many coordinator positions are standard business hours, logistics doesn’t stop at 5 PM. Shipments arrive overnight. Issues happen on weekends. You might need to be available outside normal hours occasionally to handle problems.

The stress can be high. When shipments are delayed and production is halting or customers are angry, you’re in the middle of it. Some people thrive under that pressure. Others find it exhausting.

You’re often dealing with problems, not successes. When logistics runs smoothly, nobody notices. When something goes wrong, everyone notices and you’re the one who has to fix it. It can feel thankless.

The pay isn’t spectacular. $55,000-65,000 is decent, but it’s not going to make you wealthy. If earning potential is your top priority, other career paths might offer more upside.

Automation is changing the role. More routine coordination tasks are being handled by software. The role is shifting toward exception management and strategic work, which means you need to continuously develop skills beyond basic coordination.

Geographic limitations matter. If you live in a region with limited logistics activity and you’re not willing to relocate, opportunities will be more constrained.

But despite these challenges, many people find logistics coordinator roles satisfying. You’re solving real problems. You’re essential to business operations. You develop valuable skills. And there’s a clear career path if you want to grow.

Logistics Coordinator Jobs: Is This The Right Role for You?

This job works well for people who are organized, enjoy problem-solving, can handle pressure without falling apart, and like work that’s a mix of routine and unexpected challenges.

It’s not ideal if you need your days to be predictable and calm, you struggle with multitasking, you don’t like being the person in the middle coordinating between different groups, or you’re looking for a high-paying career.

Logistics coordinator is a solid, practical career option in Canada. It’s not glamorous, but it’s consistently needed, offers decent pay, and can lead to stronger roles in supply chain and operations management if you’re ambitious.

If you’re considering this path, try to get some exposure to logistics or supply chain work—even in an entry-level capacity—to see if it fits you. The role isn’t for everyone, but for the right person, it’s a stable career with real opportunities.