Logistics & Freight Forwarding: Level 1 — Foundations of International Trade

Start your journey into the world of logistics and international trade.

South Africa’s freight and logistics industry is the engine room of our economy — every import and export, from fresh produce leaving Cape Town to machinery arriving in Durban, depends on skilled people who understand how goods move across borders. This course gives you that understanding, from the ground up.

Logistics & Freight Forwarding Level 1 is a self-paced online course designed for newcomers to the industry, junior staff in freight and logistics companies, and anyone preparing for a career in supply chain. No prior experience is required — just a willingness to learn.

What makes this course different

This is not theory for theory’s sake. The course was developed by Professional Edge Coaching and Skills Development, a South African training provider with hands-on experience in freight forwarding, cold chain logistics, and international sales. You will work with realistic South African trade scenarios and the actual documents used in the industry — commercial invoices, bills of lading, air waybills, certificates of origin, and more — all set within the South African regulatory environment of SARS, customs procedures, and export control bodies.

By the end of this course you will be able to:

• Explain how international trade works and the role of the freight forwarder within it
• Identify the main modes of transport and when each is used
• Understand Incoterms® 2020 and what they mean for buyers, sellers, and forwarders
• Recognise and interpret the key documents in an import/export transaction
• Describe the South African regulatory landscape, including the role of SARS and customs clearance
• Use core industry terminology with confidence

How the course works

The course is fully online and self-paced — study when it suits you, from any device. Each module combines clear lessons, downloadable reference materials, and a short quiz to check your understanding before you move on. On successful completion of all modules and quizzes, you will receive a Professional Edge certificate of completion.

Your next step

Level 1 is the first course in the Professional Edge logistics pathway. Graduates can progress to Level 2, which takes you deep into practical shipment documentation using real import files, and Level 3: Logistics Management & Compliance.

Enrol today and take the first step into one of South Africa’s most essential industries.