Excel in logistics: which practical examples should you show a recruiter?

A small workbook you can explain demonstrates Excel skills better than an unsupported “expert” label. For logistics, choose a simple exercise: track receipts, compare quantities and identify outstanding checks.

Use fictional data only. The aim is to show a reliable method, not reproduce an employer’s confidential files.

Build a clear table

Use row 1 for headings: A = reference, B = expected quantity, C = received quantity, D = difference, E = status. Enter the following data in rows 2 to 4. Every quantity in this exercise uses the same unit: packages.

Define what each row represents. In real operations, one shipment may have several lines, so counting rows does not necessarily count shipments.

Stock illustration, not associated with any employer or case discussed : Kindel Media / Pexels.

Explain two useful calculations

Enter =C2-B2 in D2 and copy down to D4. A negative result means received quantity is below expected; a positive result means it is above. This flags a discrepancy to investigate, not automatic proof of loss or fault.

In another cell, use =COUNTIF(E2:E4,"Check required") to count the rows requiring checks. The expected result is 2. Microsoft’s COUNTIF guidance explains the function; the linked page is in French. Function names and separators depend on Excel language and regional settings.

Do not replace an unknown receipt with zero: it could create a false shortage. All receipts are known in this exercise; your own workbook should distinguish missing data.

Demonstrate checks as well as formulas

Filter outstanding checks, inspect duplicate references and keep statuses consistent. Sort the entire table rather than one column, which would misalign records. Check units and the source of each quantity.

Test a matching-quantity row and a discrepancy row. Explain the result without relying on colour. A useful table remains understandable in a black-and-white printout.

Present your exercise

“I created three fictional receipts. Column D calculates received minus expected. I filter discrepancies and count rows requiring checks, then compare each case with supporting records before proposing a correction to the supervisor.”

Include a short note explaining the purpose, units, difference calculation and limitations. This exercise alone does not establish advanced automation or warehouse-management-system proficiency.

Describe the skill in your CV

“Excel: tracking tables, filters, quantity-difference calculations and conditional counts using receiving data.”

Use this only if you can repeat the operations. Show how your workbook identifies actions and how you prevent data-entry mistakes from becoming misleading information.

Explore vacancies on Kamerjob and tailor your application to the actual duties and requirements. You can prepare your CV with the Kamerjob CV builder.

Illustrative cover photo : Mikhail Nilov / Pexels. The photo is not a Kamerjob employer or a specific Cameroonian site.

The Kamerjob team