DHL Global Forwarding Opens Learnership Programme for 2026/2027 Intake
DHL Global Forwarding South Africa has opened applications for its 2026/2027 Learnership Programme, offering unemployed South African youth the opportunity to complete a 12-month Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification.
The programme is hosted in Johannesburg, Gauteng, and combines structured theoretical learning with practical workplace experience in one of the world’s leading logistics and freight forwarding companies.
Successful learners will gain valuable exposure to import and export operations, freight forwarding processes, documentation management, and customer service while building skills that can improve their future employability in the logistics sector.
Learnership Overview
| Programme Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Employer | DHL Global Forwarding SA (Pty) Ltd |
| Programme | Clearing and Forwarding Agent Learnership |
| Qualification | NQF Level 5 |
| Duration | 12 Months |
| Programme Intake | 2026/2027 |
| Location | Johannesburg, Gauteng |
| Employment Type | Temporary Learnership |
| Industry | Freight Forwarding & Logistics |
About the Learnership
The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership is designed to help unemployed young people develop practical and theoretical knowledge in freight forwarding and international logistics.
Participants will complete an accredited Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification while receiving workplace training in a professional logistics environment.
The programme provides learners with exposure to import and export operations, freight documentation, customs-related processes, and logistics administration, helping prepare them for careers in the supply chain and freight industry.
What You Will Do
During the learnership, learners will assist with:
- Supporting import and export operations.
- Processing freight documentation.
- Receiving and reconciling operational documents.
- Consolidating shipping information.
- Maintaining operational systems.
- Scanning and filing documentation.
- Preparing reports.
- Completing administrative duties.
- Following established operational procedures.
- Working with colleagues to support logistics activities.
- Communicating operational information.
- Assisting with day-to-day freight forwarding processes.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be between 18 and 30 years of age.
- Have completed Grade 12 (Matric).
- Achieve at least 65% in English.
- Alternatively hold a relevant Transport & Logistics or Business qualification.
- Be unemployed.
- Not be studying at the time of application.
- Basic Microsoft Office knowledge will be advantageous.
Selection will be conducted in accordance with DHL’s Employment Equity Policy.
Skills and Competencies
Successful learners should demonstrate:
- Good communication skills.
- Computer literacy.
- Administrative ability.
- Attention to detail.
- Teamwork.
- Willingness to learn.
- Time management.
- Organisational skills.
- Customer service orientation.
- Professional conduct.
What You Will Learn
Participants will gain practical experience in:
- Freight forwarding
- Clearing procedures
- Import and export administration
- International logistics
- Shipping documentation
- Customer service
- Supply chain operations
- Business communication
- Logistics administration
- Workplace professionalism
Benefits of the Programme
Successful learners may benefit from:
- A nationally recognised NQF Level 5 qualification.
- Practical workplace experience.
- Exposure to international freight forwarding.
- Professional mentorship.
- Training within a global logistics company.
- Improved employability.
- Opportunities to build professional networks.
- Potential future career opportunities within the logistics sector.
The vacancy advertisement does not specify a monthly stipend. Applicants should refer to the official DHL recruitment information for any remuneration details.
Career Opportunities
Completing the learnership may help prepare participants for roles such as:
- Clearing and Forwarding Agent
- Freight Administrator
- Logistics Coordinator
- Import Clerk
- Export Clerk
- Supply Chain Administrator
- Shipping Administrator
- Customer Service Consultant
- Logistics Operations Assistant
Successful completion of the programme does not guarantee permanent employment.
Why Choose DHL?
DHL Global Forwarding is part of the DHL Group, one of the world’s largest logistics providers operating in more than 220 countries and territories.
The company has been recognised as a Top Employer and continues to invest in employee development through structured training, mentorship, and career growth opportunities.
Application Tips
Before applying:
- Update your CV.
- Ensure your Matric certificate is available.
- Highlight your English results.
- Include any Transport & Logistics or Business qualifications.
- Demonstrate computer literacy.
- Apply before the vacancy closes.
Where to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the official DHL Careers website or the authorised recruitment platform where the vacancy is published.
Applicants should only apply through official DHL recruitment channels.
Closing Date
The closing date was not specified in the vacancy advertisement.
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
South African citizens aged 18–30 who are unemployed and have completed Grade 12 or hold a relevant Transport & Logistics or Business qualification.
How long is the learnership?
The programme runs for 12 months.
What qualification will I receive?
Successful learners will complete a Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification.
Is previous work experience required?
No. The programme is specifically designed for unemployed youth.
Is a stipend offered?
The official advertisement does not mention a stipend. Applicants should consult the official DHL Careers portal for any updates on learner benefits.
Where is the programme based?
The learnership is based in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
Editorial Policy
This article is based on information published in the official DHL Global Forwarding vacancy advertisement. It is intended for informational purposes only. Programme requirements, recruitment procedures, qualification details, and learner benefits may change. Applicants should always verify information through the official DHL Careers website before submitting an application.
Sources and References
- DHL Global Forwarding Careers
- DHL Group Recruitment Information
- Official DHL Global Forwarding Learnership Advertisement (2026/2027)
- South African Qualifications Framework (NQF)
Final Thoughts
The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership 2026/2027 provides unemployed South African youth with an excellent opportunity to build a career in the logistics and freight forwarding industry. Through a 12-month NQF Level 5 Clearing and Forwarding Agent qualification, participants will gain practical workplace experience and valuable industry knowledge while training with one of the world’s leading logistics companies. If you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your application early and submit it through the official DHL Careers website to be considered for this exciting development opportunity
