The weight of Swiss logistics
- Headcount: 200,000 direct jobs in transport and logistics
- SBB Cargo: rail freight leader, 4,000 employees
- Major players: DHL, Kuehne+Nagel, Panalpina (DSV), Planzer, Galliker
- Borders: intense international traffic (Basel, Chiasso, Geneva)
- Air hubs: Zurich (cargo) and Geneva
Leading agencies
Manpower Logistics — covers all logistics profiles (driver, forklift operator, warehouse worker, team leader). National presence, good driver reputation.
Adecco Logistics — Adecco group transport-logistics branch. Strong presence in industrial warehouses.
Kelly Logistics — supply chain placement (planner, buyer, transport manager).
Coopers Group Logistics — Romandy boutique, focus on supply chain and import/export.
ALTEN Logistics — logistics consulting for large accounts (Nestlé, Swiss Post, SBB).
Tempo-Team — drivers and warehouse staff, short and long missions.
Profiles and salaries
- Heavy goods driver (cat. C): CHF 4,800-6,200/month
- ADR driver (hazardous materials): CHF 5,500-7,200/month
- Warehouse worker / forklift operator: CHF 4,500-5,800/month
- Warehouse team leader: CHF 5,800-7,500/month
- Logistics manager: CHF 7,500-10,500/month
- Supply chain planner: CHF 6,500-9,000/month
- Industrial buyer: CHF 7,500-11,000/month
- Supply chain manager: CHF 10,000-15,000/month
- Group logistics director: CHF 14,000-22,000/month
International drivers (EU) often cumulate daily per diem adding CHF 800-1,500/month.
Licences and certifications
Essential by profile:
- C licence (heavy goods) — mandatory OACP continuing education
- CE licence (articulated truck) — recommended for international drivers
- ADR (hazardous goods transport) — 5-day training, valid 5 years
- CACES / forklift licence — warehouses
- Federal logistician diploma — supervision
- APICS CPIM, CSCP — senior supply chain
A driver with CE + ADR licences is highly sought, salary +15-20%.
Tips for collaborating well
- Quantified CV: tonnage transported, kilometres driven, teams supervised
- Up-to-date licences: renewed OACP, valid medical check
- Geographic availability: a driver willing to sleep away is better paid
- Mention languages: DE/FR for cross-border traffic, IT for Ticino
- Anticipate the practical test: most companies have you drive a vehicle before hiring
Mistakes to avoid
- Underestimating the schedule: logistics often has 5 AM-1 PM or 2 PM-10 PM shifts
- Neglecting the transport CLA (drivers): imposes salary minimums and driving hours
- Refusing the 2-shift or 3-shift system upfront: it is the norm in large warehouses
- Confusing warehouse logistics and strategic supply chain: very different profiles and salaries
The Swiss logistics sector is stable, growing modestly (+2%/year) but in chronic driver shortage. A good sector to start and progress.
