Understanding Women's Employment in the Logistics and Supply Chain Management Sector: Evidence from Indonesia

Purpose – This study aims to identify the factors influencing women’s participation in Indonesia’s logistics workforce. It addresses persistent gender inequality in transportation and warehousing, where women represent less than 15% of workers despite digital transformation reducing the sector’s dependence on physical strength.

Methodology – A qualitative approach was employed using semi-structured interviews with members of Indonesian Women in Transport & Logistics (IWTL), a professional community of women working in the logistics sector. The interview data were analysed through a coding process to identify recurring themes and construct relationships among the factors influencing women’s employment participation.

Findings – The findings indicate that women’s participation in the logistics sector is influenced by physical conditions, societal stereotypes, income, leadership opportunities, career pathways, work–life balance and marital status, professional networks, innovation, and educational attainment. These factors are interconnected and collectively shape women’s decisions to enter, remain in, and develop their careers within the logistics industry. The results suggest that barriers to women’s participation are not limited to physical job requirements but also involve organisational practices, social perceptions, career structures, and access to professional support.

Value – This research provides a gender-focused perspective on employment participation in Indonesia’s logistics sector by drawing on the experiences of women logistics professionals. The findings contribute to the understanding of gender inequality in traditionally male-dominated industries and provide practical insights for companies, professional communities, and policymakers seeking to create more inclusive workplaces, improve women’s career opportunities, and support gender equality in the logistics workforce.

Keywords: Logistics and Supply Chain Industry, Woman's work Participation, Gender Equality