DHL Global Forwarding
DHL Global Forwarding Graduate Internships 2026
Role Overview
DHL Global Forwarding invites unemployed South African youth to apply for its 12-month Graduate Programme 2026 in Johannesburg.
Graduate Programme Application Closing Date: Not specified
Graduate Programme Location: DHL Global Forwarding Offices, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
DHL Global Forwarding, Freight is recruiting unemployed young graduates for its 2026 Graduate Programme intake.
Successful applicants will be appointed on a 12-month contract and placed at DHL Global Forwarding offices in Johannesburg.
The programme is aimed at graduates who want to gain practical experience within an international logistics and freight-forwarding environment.
Company: DHL Global Forwarding SA (Pty) LimitedProgramme: Graduate Programme 2026Job reference: AV-367919Business unit: DHL Global Forwarding, FreightLocation: Johannesburg, GautengEmployment type: Full-time temporary graduate programmeContract duration: 12 monthsAge requirement: 20 to 30 yearsCitizenship: South AfricanEmployment status: Must be unemployedStudy status: Must not currently be studyingClosing date: Not specifiedApplication method: Online
Applicants should hold a relevant qualification in one of the following fields:
Logistics and Transportation Management
DHL also states that relevant qualifications in Transportation and Logistics, Business or Marketing may be considered.
Be between 20 and 30 years old.
Be available for the full 12-month programme.
Be able to work in Johannesburg.
Computer knowledge, including Microsoft Office, will be advantageous.
Successful graduates will work under direct supervision and support DHL’s business processes and operational activities.
Assisting with operational activities.
Receiving documents and information.
Maintaining operational systems.
Following defined processes and procedures.
Supporting colleagues within the assigned team.
Communicating routine operational information.
Addressing task-related issues appropriately.
Graduates may be required to support documentation processes by:
Supporting reporting activities.
Accuracy and attention to detail will therefore be important.
Successful candidates may also assist with maintaining operational systems according to instructions.
Supporting administrative workflows.
Escalating issues where necessary.
The exact system responsibilities will depend on the department in which the graduate is placed.
Graduates will primarily interact with colleagues within their own teams.
Work professionally with colleagues.
Maintain positive working relationships.
Address routine work-related issues.
Ask for guidance where required.
Work within established business processes.
Suitable applicants should demonstrate:
Ability to work under supervision.
Ability to complete repetitive tasks accurately.
Microsoft Office knowledge will be advantageous.
Applicants with experience using applications such as:
should include this information on their CV.
Successful applicants will be appointed on a temporary full-time contract for the duration of the graduate programme.
The advertisement does not state that permanent employment is guaranteed after completion.
DHL states that graduates may benefit from:
Exposure to an international company.
Practical workplace experience.
Opportunities to contribute ideas.
Career-development opportunities.
Experience within logistics and freight forwarding.
Exposure to global business processes.
Possible further career development may be available, depending on performance, business needs and available opportunities.
Selection will be conducted in accordance with DHL’s Employment Equity Policy.
The company also states that the development of talented women forms part of its broader talent-development strategy.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
DHL Global Forwarding is part of DHL Group and specialises in:
The business operates as part of DHL Group’s global network spanning more than 220 countries and territories.
The supplied advertisement does not provide a complete list of compulsory supporting documents.
A copy of their South African identity document.
Proof of their completed qualification.
An academic transcript where requested.
Any additional documents required on the official DHL careers platform.
Only documents requested during the online application should be treated as compulsory.
Applications must be submitted online through the official DHL careers platform.
Click here to apply for the DHL Global Forwarding Graduate Programme 2026
Applicants should use the following reference:
Open the official DHL Graduate Programme vacancy.
Review the qualification and eligibility requirements.
Click the online application option.
Create or sign in to an applicant profile.
Complete all compulsory personal details.
Add accurate qualification information.
Upload any additional requested documents.
Review the application carefully.
Submit the application while the
Key Responsibilities
• Successful graduates will work under direct supervision and support DHL’s business processes and operational activities.
• Responsibilities may include:
• Supporting company processes.
• Assisting with operational activities.
• Receiving documents and information.
• Reconciling documents.
• Consolidating information.
• Summarising documentation.
• Maintaining operational systems.
• Scanning documents.
• Filing records.
• Preparing basic reports.
• Completing back-office duties.
• Following defined processes and procedures.
• Supporting colleagues within the assigned team.
Entry Requirements
• Applicants should hold a relevant qualification in one of the following fields:
• Sales and Marketing
• Logistics and Transportation Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Business Management
• Mechanical Engineering
• Finance
• DHL also states that relevant qualifications in Transportation and Logistics, Business or Marketing may be considered.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from StudentRoom. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official DHL careers platform. Click here to apply for the DHL Global Forwarding Graduate Programme 2026 Applicants should use the following reference: AV-367919
About DHL Global Forwarding
This graduate programme is offered by DHL Global Forwarding, based in Johannesburg.
Why This Is Good for Starters
Graduate programmes are the gold standard for launching a professional career in South Africa. This DHL Global Forwarding programme is designed to fast-track your development with structured rotations, mentorship from senior leaders, and exposure to different business units. Graduate programmes typically offer competitive salaries, medical aid, and a clear path to management. Companies invest heavily in their graduate intake — this is your chance to learn from the best while being paid to do it.
Gauteng is South Africa's economic hub with the highest concentration of corporate headquarters. Competition is fierce but opportunities are abundant.
CV Tips for This Application
- Lead with your degree, honours, or postgraduate qualification — include your institution and graduation year
- Highlight leadership roles: class representative, society president, team captain
- Include vacation work, part-time jobs, or any industry exposure during your studies
- Quantify achievements where possible: "Managed a team of 5" or "Achieved 75% average"
- Tailor your CV to the specific programme — generic applications rarely make the shortlist
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Write a brief cover letter explaining why you are a good fit
- Apply as soon as possible — positions may close without notice
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this graduate programme paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
No closing date specified. Apply as soon as possible as positions may fill quickly.
Similar Opportunities
Ready to Apply?
Submit your application directly on DHL Global Forwarding's careers portal.
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