Freight Operations Graduate

DHL Global Forwarding UK Graduate 2026

Starting at £30,.5 hours per week, Mon-Fri Hayes and Staines

Consistently recognised as a Top Employer worldwide, DHL Global Forwarding are now accepting applications for its 2026 Graduate Scheme. If you re ambitious, curious, and eager to make an impact in an organisation that moves the world, this could be your perfect next step.

As a Graduate, you ll embark on a three-year rotational programme, gaining hands-on experience in key departments while contributing to the future of our UK business. You'll work with industry experts, be supported with structured training and mentorship, and gain invaluable insights into the world of freight forwarding, all while using the latest technology.

Location: Rotational attendance at our Hayes (Middlesex) and Staines (Surrey) offices with occasional travel within the UK.

What We Offer:

• Salary starting at £30,500, £32,000 (Year 2) and £34,00 (Year 3)
• Comprehensive benefits package, including 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays, pension scheme, and retail discounts
• Realistic career progression
• Hands-on experience across key business functions
• Mentorship & personalised development plans
• Opportunity to join a consecutively awarded Top Employer and Great Place to Work

Programme Overview:

This is a 36-month Fixed Term Contract with potential for a permanent placement, subject to suitable available vacancies.

During the three years, there will be two year s of rotational placements through key departments to gain a comprehensive understanding of the business and its products, including Airfreight Operations, Air and Ocean Product, Finance, Sales and Industrial Projects. For the third year Graduates will be placed in an Operational Department to gain a specialism in an area that they are suited to in line with business needs. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to contribute to business projects as they arise.

Requirements:

• Degree: 2:1 or above, ideally in related fields such as Business, Economics, Logistics etc.
• Valid right to work in the UK
• Valid UK driving licence with the flexibility to travel within the UK for project work
• Fluent English (verbal and written)

Desired Skills:

• Interest to work for DHL and within the Freight Forwarding/Logistics industry
• Customer-centric mindset with innovative thinking
• Proactive attitude and adaptability to change
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in problem-solving and time management

Who is DHL Global Forwarding:

DHL Global Forwarding is part of the Deutsche Post DHL Group, with a global network spanning over 190 countries. We specialise in Air, Ocean, and Rail Freight, offering end-to-end solutions tailored to our customers' needs. You name it, we ve shipped it - from brown bears, to aircraft engines, to lifesaving medicines! With a legacy dating back to 1815, we are experts in delivering excellence in logistics. Our values of Passion, Entrepreneurship, Excellence, and Teamwork drive us forward every day.

Our Freight Operations Departments:

Air Freight: Our Air Freight Department offer efficient air transportation solutions, including express delivery and specialised handling of perishable or hazardous goods. Using DHL's global network and airline partnerships, they ensure comprehensive coverage and competitive rates.

Ocean Freight: The Ocean Freight department manages the transportation of goods via ocean vessels across trade lanes, offering Full Container Loads (FCL), Less than Container Loads (LCL), and specialised cargo solutions. Collaborating closely with shipping lines, port authorities, and customs agencies, they ensure seamless operations and timely delivery.

Industrial Projects: The Industrial Projects department delivers customised logistics solutions for large-scale industrial projects, managing everything from planning to execution and monitoring. With expertise spanning energy, mining, construction, and manufacturing, they work on some of the toughest logistical operations.

Click " Apply " and our recruitment team will be in touch!

Application deadline : Midday 1st May 2026.

Don't miss this opportunity to launch your career with DHL Global Forwarding, where Excellence is Simply Delivered.

Note: Visa sponsorship is not available at this time. Applicants must have the unrestricted right to work in the UK at the time of application, and for duration of the graduate scheme. We are unable to progress applications from candidates who require sponsorship or are awaiting a visa decision

Note: Due to the nature of our business, we are regulated by the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority), therefore it is compulsory for all applicants once offered employment to provide a full 5-year employment history. Additional to this we are required to complete a Criminal Record Check.

We are committed to creating a workplace that ensures mutual respect and is focused on results. We hire talented people from all backgrounds irrespective of gender, disability, nationality, ethnicity, social background, religion and beliefs, age or sexual orientation and identity. Diversity enriches our workplace, drives our success, and helps us deliver excellence.