DHL Global Forwarding Learnership. DHL Global Forwarding LearnershipThe DHL Global Forwarding Learnership 2026/2027 presents an excellent opportunity for unemployed young South Africans who want to build a career in logistics, freight forwarding, and supply chain management. The 12-month learnership combines structured learning with practical workplace exposure, giving successful applicants an opportunity to develop skills that can be valuable in South Africa’s transport and logistics industry.
Based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, the programme is aimed at young people who meet the specified eligibility requirements and are interested in gaining a recognised Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification. Because the programme provides both theoretical knowledge and practical workplace experience, it can be a useful stepping stone for candidates looking to enter the freight and logistics sector.
DHL Global Forwarding Learnership 2026/2027
The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership is structured over 12 months and focuses on developing practical knowledge of international freight forwarding and logistics operations. Participants will have the opportunity to learn how goods are managed as they move through import and export processes.
The programme covers important areas such as freight documentation, operational administration, customer support, record management, and logistics procedures. Learners will gain exposure to a professional working environment and will be expected to complete assigned duties under appropriate supervision.
DHL Global Forwarding is the freight forwarding division of DHL Group and provides international air, ocean, and road freight services. Working in such an environment can give learners valuable insight into how global supply chains operate.
Why Choose This Learnership?
For unemployed young people, gaining practical workplace experience can be just as important as having academic qualifications. Many entry-level logistics positions require candidates to understand workplace procedures, communication, documentation, and basic operational systems.
This learnership helps bridge the gap between education and employment by combining learning with practical experience. Participants can develop professional confidence while becoming familiar with the day-to-day activities involved in freight forwarding.
The experience may also help learners understand possible career paths within logistics companies, freight forwarding agencies, customs-related businesses, shipping organisations, and supply chain departments.
What Will Learners Learn?
During the programme, participants can gain exposure to several important areas of freight forwarding and administration. These may include:
- Import and export administration
- Freight forwarding documentation
- Clearing and forwarding procedures
- Logistics support activities
- Document verification and reconciliation
- Digital record management
- Operational reporting
- Filing and document control
- Customer service support
- Business communication
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Workplace professionalism
Learners may also become familiar with computer-based systems and processes used to manage information within logistics operations.
Key Responsibilities
Successful candidates will be expected to participate actively in workplace activities. Their responsibilities may include supporting import and export processes, handling operational documentation, updating records, assisting with administrative tasks, and maintaining accurate information.
Other duties can include scanning and filing documents, reconciling freight-related information, preparing reports, updating operational systems, and following established company procedures.
Although these responsibilities may seem administrative, accuracy is extremely important in freight forwarding. Incorrect documentation or incomplete records can create delays in the movement of goods. Therefore, learners can develop strong attention to detail and organisational skills throughout the programme.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants should carefully check the eligibility requirements before submitting an application. According to the provided programme information, candidates should generally meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be between 18 and 30 years old.
- Have completed Grade 12/Matric or hold a relevant Transport, Logistics, or Business qualification.
- Have passed English with at least 65% in Matric.
- Be currently unemployed.
- Not be studying at the time of application.
- Have basic computer literacy.
- Microsoft Office knowledge can be advantageous.
Selection is expected to take place in accordance with DHL’s applicable Employment Equity Policy. Applicants should always check the official vacancy page for the most current requirements because recruitment conditions can change.
Skills That Can Improve Your Application
Candidates who demonstrate strong workplace and communication skills may be well suited to this type of programme. Important qualities include good communication, attention to detail, organisation, teamwork, time management, and willingness to learn.
Basic computer skills are also useful because logistics operations involve digital records, documentation, reporting, and communication. Applicants should highlight relevant skills and qualifications clearly on their CV.
Career Opportunities After the Learnership
Successfully completing the Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 programme can help learners prepare for various entry-level roles in the logistics sector.
Potential career paths may include:
- Freight Forwarding Administrator
- Logistics Administrator
- Import Clerk
- Export Clerk
- Shipping Coordinator
- Customs Documentation Clerk
- Supply Chain Administrator
- Distribution Coordinator
- Logistics Operations Assistant
Completion of the learnership does not automatically guarantee permanent employment. However, obtaining a recognised qualification combined with workplace experience can strengthen a candidate’s CV and potentially improve their competitiveness when applying for future positions.
How to Apply for DHL Global Forwarding Learnership 2026/2027
Interested applicants should apply through the official DHL Careers portal and carefully follow the instructions provided for the Learner position.
Before starting the application, candidates should prepare an updated CV and relevant supporting documents. These may include a South African ID, Matric certificate, and copies of relevant qualifications where applicable.
Applicants should ensure that all information entered into the application is accurate. Any requested documents should be submitted in the required format.
Official application: DHL Global Forwarding Learner – Official Careers Application
Application Tips
Applicants can improve their applications by preparing carefully before submitting them. Make sure your CV is current, easy to read, and focused on relevant education and skills. If you have studied subjects or completed qualifications related to business, logistics, transport, administration, or supply chain management, make these details easy to find.
Candidates should also highlight computer literacy, communication abilities, teamwork, and any previous volunteering, internship, or workplace experience.
Most importantly, carefully check the official vacancy information before applying. Do not rely only on information published on third-party websites because application deadlines, requirements, and vacancy details may be updated.
Why Logistics Is an Important Career Field
Logistics is an essential part of South Africa’s economy. Businesses depend on efficient transportation and supply chain systems to move products between manufacturers, suppliers, warehouses, ports, airports, retailers, and customers.
International freight forwarding is particularly important because imported and exported goods must pass through multiple processes involving transportation, documentation, customs, and coordination. Skilled employees help businesses manage these processes efficiently.
For young South Africans interested in this sector, a learnership can provide an opportunity to gain practical experience while developing a recognised qualification.
Conclusion
The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership 2026/2027 can be a valuable opportunity for eligible unemployed South African youth who want to enter the logistics and freight forwarding industry. The 12-month programme offers a combination of structured learning and workplace exposure, helping participants develop technical, administrative, and professional skills.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your documents, update your CV, and review the official DHL vacancy carefully before submitting your application. Since programme information can change, applicants should use the official DHL Careers page as the final source for current requirements, application instructions, and recruitment updates.
