DHL Global Forwarding Learnership 2026/2027: Apply for the Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 Programme

Published: 2 August 2026
Author: CareersFocus Editorial Team
Category: Learnership Opportunities
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Programme Duration: 12 Months
Employment Type: Temporary Learnership
Target Audience: Unemployed South African youth seeking a career in logistics and freight forwarding.

The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership for the 2026/2027 intake offers unemployed young South Africans an opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications while building practical workplace experience in one of the world’s leading logistics companies. This 12-month programme combines classroom learning with hands-on industry exposure, allowing participants to develop skills that are highly valued within South Africa’s growing transport, freight, and supply chain sectors.

Unlike programmes that focus only on theoretical learning, this learnership is designed to prepare participants for real operational environments where they can understand international freight forwarding processes, documentation, customer service, and logistics operations. Learners who successfully complete the programme will have practical knowledge that can improve their future employability within the logistics industry.

Programme Overview

The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership is a structured workplace learning programme leading to a Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification. During the 12-month programme, successful applicants will receive practical exposure to freight forwarding operations while completing the required academic components.

The programme is hosted by DHL Global Forwarding South Africa, the freight division of DHL Group responsible for international Air Freight, Ocean Freight and Road Freight solutions across global markets.

As international trade continues to expand, skilled freight forwarding professionals remain in demand to help businesses move goods efficiently across borders. This learnership introduces participants to these essential logistics processes while developing valuable workplace skills.

Why This Learnership Matters

South Africa’s logistics industry plays a significant role in supporting economic growth by connecting local businesses with international markets. Freight forwarding professionals help coordinate the movement of imports and exports, ensuring goods reach their destinations efficiently while complying with customs and transport regulations.

The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership provides practical experience in an industry that offers career opportunities across freight forwarding companies, shipping agencies, transport operators, customs clearing firms, distribution centres, and multinational logistics organisations.

For young people with limited work experience, structured workplace learning programmes such as this one provide an opportunity to build both technical knowledge and professional confidence while working within an internationally recognised organisation.

About DHL Global Forwarding

DHL Global Forwarding forms part of DHL Group, one of the world’s largest logistics providers operating in more than 220 countries and territories. The company specialises in international freight forwarding solutions covering air, ocean, and road transport for businesses across multiple industries.

The organisation has earned recognition as a Top Employer by investing in employee development, workplace learning, diversity, and continuous professional growth. Through programmes such as this learnership, DHL contributes to developing future logistics professionals while supporting skills development in South Africa.

What You Will Learn

Throughout the programme, learners will gain practical experience in several operational areas, including:

• Import and export administration
• Freight forwarding documentation
• Clearing and forwarding processes
• Logistics support operations
• Document reconciliation and verification
• Digital record management
• Operational reporting
• Filing and document control
• Customer service support
• Team collaboration
• Business communication
• Workplace professionalism

Learners will also become familiar with operational systems commonly used within international logistics environments.

Key Responsibilities

Participants accepted into the DHL Global Forwarding Learnership will assist with a variety of operational duties under supervision.

These include:

• Supporting import and export processes
• Receiving and processing operational documentation
• Reconciling freight-related information
• Scanning and filing business documents
• Updating operational systems
• Preparing reports
• Maintaining accurate records
• Following established logistics procedures
• Working closely with team members
• Assisting with back-office administration

The practical workplace exposure allows learners to understand how freight forwarding operations function in a real business environment.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants should meet the following requirements before applying:

• Grade 12 (Matric) or a relevant Transport, Logistics or Business qualification
• English passed with at least 65% in Matric
• South African citizen
• Between 18 and 30 years old
• Currently unemployed
• Not studying at the time of application
• Basic computer literacy
• Microsoft Office knowledge will be advantageous

Selection will be conducted in accordance with the company’s Employment Equity Policy.

Skills That Can Strengthen Your Application

While not all are compulsory, applicants with the following qualities may adapt well to the programme:

• Good communication skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Organisational ability
• Willingness to learn
• Problem-solving skills
• Professional attitude
• Time management
• Teamwork
• Basic computer proficiency
• Interest in logistics and supply chain operations

Career Opportunities After Completion

Completing a Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification may help prepare learners for entry-level opportunities such as:

• Freight Forwarding Administrator
• Logistics Administrator
• Import Clerk
• Export Clerk
• Shipping Coordinator
• Customs Documentation Clerk
• Supply Chain Administrator
• Distribution Coordinator
• Logistics Operations Assistant

Employment opportunities will depend on organisational vacancies, individual performance, and labour market demand. Completion of the programme does not guarantee permanent employment, but it can significantly strengthen a candidate’s professional profile.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted through the official DHL Careers portal.

Official Application Link:

https://careers.dhl.com/global/en/job/DPDHGLOBALAV366612ENGLOBALEXTERNAL/Learner

Applicants are encouraged to prepare the following documents before applying:

• Updated CV
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified Matric certificate
• Relevant qualifications (if applicable)
• Any supporting documents requested during the application process

Ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete before submitting your application.

Application Tips

To improve your chances of progressing through the recruitment process:

• Ensure your CV is updated and professionally formatted.
• Highlight any school subjects or qualifications related to business, transport, or logistics.
• Demonstrate computer literacy where applicable.
• Carefully review all information before submitting your application.
• Apply as early as possible to avoid missing the opportunity.

Why Logistics Is a Growing Career Field

Logistics and supply chain management continue to play an essential role in South Africa’s economy. Every product imported, exported, manufactured, or distributed relies on professionals who understand transport planning, documentation, customs procedures, and inventory movement.

As businesses continue expanding their regional and international trade networks, organisations increasingly require skilled employees who understand freight forwarding operations. Workplace learning programmes such as the DHL Global Forwarding Learnership help bridge the gap between education and employment by providing recognised qualifications together with practical industry experience.

Information Verification

The details in this article have been prepared using information published by DHL Global Forwarding for the 2026/2027 Learner opportunity. Applicants should always refer to the official application page for the latest recruitment updates, eligibility requirements, and any changes before submitting an application.