Freight and Cargo Manager in Missouri Career Overview
As a Freight and Cargo Manager, you are responsible for overseeing the transportation and logistics of goods across various modes of transport, including road, rail, sea, and air. Your role is essential in ensuring that products are delivered on time and in good condition, enhancing customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Key responsibilities typically include:
- Managing the logistics and supply chain processes to optimize the flow of goods.
- Coordinating with various stakeholders, including suppliers, transportation companies, and warehouse teams.
- Analyzing shipping methods and procedures to identify areas for improvement.
- Tracking shipments and resolving any delays or issues that may arise during transit.
- Ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety standards.
The significance of your position cannot be overstated; you act as a linchpin in the operations of businesses, helping them minimize costs while maximizing productivity. Efficient freight and cargo management contributes to a company’s bottom line, making your role vital in a competitive marketplace. Your strategic decisions impact the supply chain, reflecting directly on overall business performance and reputation.
Freight and Cargo Manager Salary in Missouri
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Freight and Cargo Manager in Missouri
To become a Freight and Cargo Manager in Missouri, you will need to meet specific educational qualifications and training requirements. Consider the following degree programs, which are beneficial for this career:
Operations Management and Supervision: This program focuses on the effective management of operations within various industries, emphasizing process optimization, resource allocation, and supervisory skills.
Logistics: A degree in logistics will provide you with a strong foundation in the planning, implementation, and control of the flow of goods and services. This includes inventory management, transportation, and distribution strategies.
Transportation and Materials Moving: This program offers specialized training in the transportation sector, covering topics such as the movement of goods, transportation regulations, and materials handling techniques.
Transportation Mobility Management: This degree focuses on transportation systems and policies, providing insights into managing transportation assets and creating efficient movement systems.
Supply Chain Management: A degree in supply chain management covers the entire process of product flow from the supplier to the customer, including procurement, production, distribution, and logistics, equipping you with the necessary skills for managing freight and cargo operations.
In addition to formal education, gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in logistics or supply chain management can enhance your understanding of the field and may be beneficial in advancing your career.
Best Schools to become a Freight and Cargo Manager in Missouri 2024
Valencia College
American Public University System
Fort Hays State University
Southern New Hampshire University
Michigan State University
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
- Plan, direct, or coordinate transportation, storage, or distribution activities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable government laws or regulations.
- Includes logistics managers.
Freight and Cargo Manager Required Skills and Competencies in Missouri
Leadership and Team Management
You will need to effectively lead teams, fostering collaboration among diverse groups while motivating team members to achieve organizational goals.Communication Skills
Being able to clearly articulate information to stakeholders, suppliers, and team members is essential. You should be comfortable with both verbal and written communication.Attention to Detail
You must possess strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in shipping documents, inventory management, and compliance with regulations.Analytical Thinking
Developing solutions to logistical challenges relies heavily on your ability to analyze data and make informed decisions based on various metrics.Problem-Solving Skills
You will frequently encounter unexpected challenges in cargo management. Effective problem-solving techniques will help you navigate these issues swiftly.Time Management
The ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently is vital for meeting tight deadlines and overseeing multiple shipments or projects simultaneously.Negotiation Skills
You will often negotiate rates and contracts with vendors and carriers, so strong negotiation skills are necessary to achieve favorable terms.Customer Service Orientation
Understanding and addressing the needs of clients is critical. Enhancing customer satisfaction through effective service delivery should be a priority.Familiarity with Technology
Proficiency in logistics software, tracking systems, and supply chain management technologies is necessary for optimizing operations.Knowledge of Regulations
Being well-versed in transportation and cargo regulations will help ensure compliance and mitigate legal issues.Financial Acumen
Understanding budget management, cost analysis, and financial forecasting is essential for managing expenses associated with freight and cargo.Networking Skills
Building and maintaining relationships with carriers, suppliers, and industry partners will be important for operational success and resource procurement.
Job Duties for Freight and Cargo Managers
Inspect physical conditions of warehouses, vehicle fleets, or equipment and order testing, maintenance, repairs, or replacements.
Plan, develop, or implement warehouse safety and security programs and activities.
Supervise the activities of workers engaged in receiving, storing, testing, and shipping products or materials.
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Microsoft Dynamics
- SAP software
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
- USPS.com
- Warehouse management system WMS
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Talking to others
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
People and Technology Systems
- Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Freight and Cargo Manager in Missouri
The job market for Freight and Cargo Managers in Missouri demonstrates a promising landscape characterized by growing demand and opportunities across various sectors.
Increasing Demand: The rise in e-commerce and global trade has fueled the need for logistics and supply chain management professionals. As companies seek to improve efficiency and delivery timelines, the demand for skilled Freight and Cargo Managers continues to escalate.
Growth Potential: The logistics industry is experiencing a renaissance, with many organizations investing in infrastructure and technology to streamline operations. This trend translates into an expanding role for Freight and Cargo Managers, as they are integral to optimizing freight movement and minimizing delays.
Geographical Hotspots:
St. Louis: A major logistics hub with a strategic location that connects to several interstate highways, railroads, and the Mississippi River, St. Louis offers numerous opportunities in freight management with a range of industries, including aviation, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Kansas City: Known for its robust transportation network, Kansas City serves as another key area for Freight and Cargo Managers. The city’s proximity to major railroads and highways makes it a critical point for national and regional freight movement.
Springfield: While smaller in size, Springfield has a growing logistics sector, largely due to its central location in the state and accessibility to regional markets. The area's distribution centers and warehouses create a steady need for freight management professionals.
Industry Sectors: In Missouri, Freight and Cargo Managers can find opportunities in various sectors, including:
- Retail and e-commerce
- Manufacturing and distribution
- Transportation and logistics services
- Food and beverage distribution
Overall, the Freight and Cargo Manager position is vital to the efficiency of supply chain operations, and the current trends within the industry in Missouri indicate a healthy job market with ample opportunities for growth and development.
Top Related Careers to Freight and Cargo Manager 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Freight and Cargo Manager in Missouri
American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA)
Website: aapa-ports.org
The AAPA represents public ports in the United States and provides resources on port management, cargo handling, and transportation policies.Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
Website: cscmp.org
This organization offers a range of professional development resources, educational materials, and networking opportunities for supply chain professionals, including freight and cargo management.Institute for Supply Management (ISM)
Website: ismworld.org
ISM provides education, certification, and industry resources for supply chain management, offering valuable insights into procurement and logistics processes.Transportation Research Board (TRB)
Website: trb.org
A division of the National Research Council, TRB publishes research findings and hosts conferences pertinent to transportation systems, including freight logistics.FreightWaves
Website: freightwaves.com
A leading news and analytics platform for the freight industry, FreightWaves provides market data, news articles, and industry insights that are useful for freight and cargo professionals.Logistics Management
Website: logisticsmgmt.com
This resource covers news, trends, and best practices in supply chain logistics, including sections dedicated to freight management and cargo operations.U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
Website: dot.gov
The DOT provides guidelines, regulatory information, and resources related to transportation systems and freight management across the country.Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT)
Website: modot.org
The state’s transportation agency provides resources about infrastructure, freight services, and economic initiatives that impact cargo management in Missouri.National Industrial Transportation League (NITL)
Website: nitl.org
This organization advocates for policies affecting freight transportation and offers resources, webinars, and industry news catering to logistics professionals.The Journal of Commerce (JOC)
Website: joc.com
JOC covers global supply chain, freight transportation, and logistics news, providing articles and data that can enhance your understanding of the freight industry.
These resources will help you stay informed and connected within the freight and cargo management field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Freight and Cargo Manager in Missouri
What qualifications are needed to become a Freight and Cargo Manager?
You typically need a bachelor’s degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field. Additionally, experience in logistics or transportation management is highly beneficial.What skills are important for a Freight and Cargo Manager?
Key skills include strong analytical abilities, excellent communication skills, proficiency in logistics software, and a solid understanding of transportation regulations and practices. Leadership skills are also vital, as you may oversee a team.What is the typical salary range for a Freight and Cargo Manager in Missouri?
Salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, and the size of the company, but as of 2023, you can expect an annual salary ranging from approximately $65,000 to $100,000.What are the primary responsibilities of a Freight and Cargo Manager?
Main responsibilities include coordinating transportation operations, managing budgets, supervising staff, ensuring compliance with regulations, optimizing shipping processes, and negotiating contracts with carriers.Is the job outlook for Freight and Cargo Managers favorable?
Yes, the job outlook is generally positive, with growth anticipated in the logistics and supply chain sectors due to increased demand for efficient transportation services.What industries employ Freight and Cargo Managers?
You can find opportunities in various industries, including manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, and logistics companies.Are there professional certifications that can enhance my career?
Yes, certifications such as the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or the Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) can enhance your credentials and improve job prospects.How can I gain experience in this field?
Internships in logistics or supply chain roles, entry-level positions in freight forwarding, or working in related fields can provide the experience needed to advance into a management position.What technology should I be familiar with as a Freight and Cargo Manager?
Familiarity with logistics management software, warehouse management systems, and transportation management systems is essential. Knowledge of data analysis tools can also be beneficial.Is remote work an option for Freight and Cargo Managers?
While some aspects of the job may allow for remote work, many responsibilities require onsite management of logistics operations and communication with staff and partners. Hybrid roles may be available depending on the employer.