Logistics Specialist

- invoicing, transfers, completing accounting documentation
- handling HR matters (vacations, periodic examinations, personal files)
- purchasing computer equipment, computer network administration
- settlement of drivers' working hours

Refrigerated transport logistics from the inside - a look from a specialist's perspective

As a logistics specialist for a refrigerated transport company, I often hear the question, "What do you do?" Let me take you on a journey through a typical day at work in the world of refrigerated logistics.

Morning - a fight against time and documents

My day starts at 7:30. The first thing I do is check the status of all transports from the previous night. There is no room for delays in refrigerated transport - every minute can decide on the quality of the transported goods. I check the temperatures in the trailers via the telematics system because maintaining a constant temperature of -18°C is essential for frozen products.

The next point is the invoicing of yesterday's orders. It may seem like a simple task, but with international transport, you have to pay attention to dozens of details: correct VAT rates, exchange rates, and whether CMR documents are complete. One mistake can result in days of explanations with the accounting department.

Noon - juggling duties

Around noon I deal with HR matters. This week I have to:

Update vacation schedule (three drivers request the same date)
Send reminders about ending periodic tests
Complete documentation for the new employee's file

At the same time, I am in talks with an IT equipment supplier - our computer network requires modernization, and one of the computers in the accounting department refused to cooperate. In the transport industry, we cannot afford technical downtime.

Afternoon - settlements and challenges

The real challenges start in the afternoon. The settlement of drivers' working hours is a complicated puzzle. You need to consider:

Driving time standards
Mandatory breaks
Loading and unloading time
Parking hours
Regulations of different countries regarding working hours

Then there are the unexpected situations. Today, for example, one of the drivers got stuck in a traffic jam on the German border, which had a domino effect on subsequent deliveries. In moments like these, the ability to make quick decisions and know the rules is worth its weight in gold.

The biggest challenges in the work of a logistician

Time pressure - There is no room for delays in refrigerated transport. Any delay may result in a loss of quality of the goods.
Documentation - An avalanche of documents that must be flawless: CMR, invoices, customs documents, certificates temperature.
Crisis management - Refrigeration unit failures, accidents, traffic jams at borders - you have to be prepared for everything.
Multitasking - One moment you're dealing with finances, the next you're fixing a printer, and the next you're resolving a personal conflict.

What gives me satisfaction?

Despite all the challenges, the most satisfying thing is that our work has a real impact on people's daily lives. Thanks to an efficiently operating cold chain, fresh and frozen products reach stores and restaurants safely.

Logistics is not just numbers and documents - it is primarily people and the ability to solve problems. Every day brings new challenges, but this is what makes this job never boring.

Tips for future logisticians

Develop organizational skills - you will need them every day
Learn transport regulations - this is the basis of this industry
Be flexible - the situation changes from minute to minute
Invest in knowledge of IT systems - this is your basic work tool
Develop communication skills - you will work with different people

Working in refrigerated transport logistics is not just a profession - it is a lifestyle. It requires dedication, constant learning and resistance to stress, but it also gives great satisfaction from a job well done.