In a sector known for its complexity and pace, logistics has long valued experience. Time spent in-role, years with a company, familiarity with long-standing processes—these used to be the top indicators of a strong hire.

But the industry is changing fast.

Automation, global disruption, tighter compliance, and customer demands for speed and transparency have all redefined what it means to be effective in a logistics role.

Today, experience alone isn’t enough. The most successful logistics teams are built on adaptability, digital fluency, and real-world problem-solving.

The Risk of Hiring Only for Experience

Experience does matter—it brings context, credibility, and confidence. But relying on experience *alone* can lead to missed opportunities:

  • Candidates may struggle to adapt to modern systems or digital workflows.
  • Long-standing habits may clash with innovation-focused strategies.
  • Experience in one mode (e.g. road) doesn’t always translate to success in another (e.g. sea or air).

The result? A mismatch between what the role needs today—and what the candidate is equipped to deliver.

The New Hiring Criteria: Skills That Drive Modern Logistics

Forward-thinking logistics employers are rethinking their hiring approach. Instead of just asking, “What’s on your CV?”, they’re asking:

  • Can you adapt to rapid change?
  • Are you confident using logistics software and digital tracking tools?
  • Can you stay calm and think clearly in high-pressure environments?
  • Are you collaborative and solution-focused?

In a sector where things rarely go to plan, it’s these qualities that keep goods moving and customers satisfied.

What This Means for Hiring Managers

Shifting your mindset from “years-in-role” to “value-in-role” opens up your talent pool—and helps you build more agile teams.

Here’s what we recommend:

  • Focus on potential, not just pedigree: Look for candidates who can grow into the role, not just those who’ve done it before.
  • Assess communication and thinking style: This is where video CVs shine, giving you a real sense of how candidates approach challenges.
  • Be open to cross-modal talent: Someone from a rail logistics background may bring new efficiency to your road transport operations.

How Vidu Helps You Hire Smarter

At Vidu, we specialise in helping logistics businesses identify and hire candidates who bring more than just experience.

Through video-led recruitment, we give you deeper insight into a candidate’s communication style, mindset, and readiness to perform—so you’re not hiring blind based on a CV alone.

We work across road, rail, sea, and air, placing talent that can move with the times and bring long-term value to your business.

Rethink Experience. Reimagine Your Team.

The future of logistics isn’t about who’s done the job the longest. It’s about who can do the job best—right now, and into the future.

Let’s find your next hire. Smarter. Faster. Stronger.

Get in touch with Vidu to learn more.

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