Company: DHL Global Forwarding SA (Pty) Limited
Industry: Freight Forwarding, Global Logistics, Air & Ocean Freight
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Position Type: 12-Month Learnership Programme (NQF Level 5)
Job ID / Reference: AV-366612
Posted Date: 30 July 2026
Closing Date: Open / Rolling Applications
About DHL Global Forwarding & The Learnership Programme
DHL Group is the world’s leading international logistics provider, operating across more than 220 countries. DHL Global Forwarding, Freight (DGFF) is the specialized division handling air, ocean, and road freight solutions for global enterprises.
The DHL Freight Forwarding Learnership Programme (2026/2027 Intake) is a structured, 12-month learnership aimed at empowering unemployed South African youth. Successful candidates will be enrolled in an accredited Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification, combining theoretical classroom instruction with hands-on practical work exposure in import/export logistics operations.
Key Responsibilities & Work Environment Exposure
Working under direct operational supervision, learners will be trained across key freight forwarding and back-office functions:
1. Import & Export Documentation
- Document Reconciliation: Receive, reconcile, consolidate, and summarize shipping and customs documentation.
- Operational Compliance: Follow standard operating procedures to process customs clearance and transport paperwork.
2. Systems & Back-Office Support
- System Upkeep: Maintain internal freight tracking systems as instructed.
- Administrative Tasks: Execute operational back-office duties including scanning, filing, data capturing, and status reporting.
3. Team Collaboration
- Operational Communication: Work closely with logistics colleagues and operational teams to resolve task-related queries efficiently.
Candidate Profile & Entry Requirements
To qualify for this learnership initiative, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality & Citizenship: South African Citizen.
- Age Limit: Between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
- Employment & Student Status: Must be currently unemployed and not registered for studies at any tertiary institution.
- Academic Qualification:
- Grade 12 / Matric with a minimum of 65% for English.
- OR a relevant qualification in Transport & Logistics / Business Studies.
- Computer Literacy: Basic knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) is advantageous.
- Equity Alignment: Selection will be conducted in accordance with DHL’s Employment Equity Policy.
Career Advice for Learnership Applicants
- Highlight Your Matric English Marks: DHL specifies a minimum of 65% for English. Make sure your Grade 12 results or statement of symbols clearly displays your English subject score near the top of your resume.
- Emphasize MS Office Skills: Include any high school, college, or self-taught experience with Microsoft Word and Excel on your CV.
- Format Your CV Clearly: Ensure your contact details, ID number, age, location, and clear confirmation of your current unemployed status are easy for recruiters to scan.
Sample Interview Preparation Questions
Logistics & Learnership Motivation Questions
- Question (Motivation): “Why are you interested in pursuing a career in Freight Forwarding and Supply Chain Logistics with a global company like DHL?”
- Question (Attention to Detail): “Freight forwarding requires high accuracy with shipping documents. How do you ensure you don’t make mistakes when capturing or filing data?”
Work Ethic & Teamwork
- Question (Teamwork): “How do you handle receiving feedback or instructions from senior team members when learning a new operational task?”
How to Apply
Submit your application directly through the official DHL Careers portal:
- Job Reference ID:
AV-366612 - Qualification: Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF 5