Logistics,
Transportation,
& Warehousing
The Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing Industry in Rankin County is not only steadily growing, but thriving in Rankin County, Mississippi.
Mississippi is known as a hub for the Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing Industry due to its ideal location and positioning in the growing southeastern market. Customers are looking for fast access to product, and with more than 60% of major population centers within a one day’s drive, companies have the competitive advantage of quick speed to global markets for a fraction of the cost.
This industry is also booming on a more centralized level in Rankin County and the surrounding region. In 2021, the industry alone produced $1.3 billion in GDP. This is due to the county’s strategic location, skilled and available workforce and strong existing infrastructure. Industry growth in the region only continues to rise – with a 2.8% growth rate over the past ten years.
Rankin County has the workforce to support this growing industry. More than 10,000 individuals are already employed within the field and the upcoming talent pipeline is robust and reliable. With an available and affordable workforce, it is no wonder the industry has experienced much success in the region and will only continue to do so in the future.
Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing Industry Call-Out Stats
10,000+
Rankin County’s high concentration of manufacturing operations accounts for over 30% of Jackson, MS MSA’s manufacturers
2.8%
The industry has experienced a 2.8% growth rate over the last 10 years in Rankin County.
14.4%
14.4% of the county’s total employment is in the Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing Industry.
2300+
2,300+ Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing related degrees and certificates awarded annually.
10
10 higher education programs in the Jackon, MS MSA linked to the industry.
| Industry Growth Rate (Past 10 Years) | Employment | Average Annual Wage | Average Annual Wage Growth (Past 10 Years) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rankin County | 2.8% | 10,003 | $61,341 | 3.2% |
| Jackson, MS MSA | 1.5% | 22,541 | $59,257 | 2.7% |
| Rankin County Laborshed (45-Min Drive Time) | 1.5% | 24,238 | $58,907 | 2.7% |
| Mississippi | 2.0% | 103,008 | $56,883 | 2.4% |
Talent Pipeline
2,300
Rankin County’s labor force is already more than capable of keeping up with current industry labor demands, but we are committed to growing the talent pipeline to keep up with future demand. Within the regional laborshed, over 2,100 degrees and certificates are awarded annually related to the transportation, distribution and logistics industry. Hinds Community college offers a variety of degrees and certificates related to the industry through its Logistics Technology program. Students can obtain their certificates in only two semesters.
Five higher education institutions within the Jackson, MS MSA are issuing more than 2,300 Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing related awards annually in key programs such as:
- Business Administration and Management
- Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor
- Business/Commerce
- Diesel Mechanics Technology
- Electrician
Education & Industry Partnerships
In 2014, Hinds Community College partnered with KLLM Transportation Service to establish the Commercial Truck Driving Program. The program is a fully accredited training academy that prepares students for employment in the transportation industry. Participants receive both classroom and hands-on equipment training, as well as soft skills training in employability, work maturity and basic educational skills. Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills to readily enter the workforce and obtain a high-quality job in the field.
Top Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing industry growth over the past decade includes:
- General Freight Trucking, Long-Distance
- Specialized Freight
- Grocery and Related Products Merchant Wholesalers
| Top 5 Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing Occupations in Rankin County | Employment | Average Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | 3,182 | $53,500 |
| Laborers and Freight, Stock, & Material Movers, Hand | 896 | $30,400 |
| Light Truck Drivers | 540 | $44,600 |
| Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical & Scientific Products | 514 | $58,300 |
| General & Operations Managers | 284 | $90,100 |
Strategic Advantages
Logistics, Transportation & Warehousing Industry companies in Mississippi continue to grow and expand due to the state’s business friendly climate. The state, local governments and area partners offer a variety of business incentives and resources to support the needs of the industry.
According to 2021 rankings from Area Development Magazine, among the nation Mississippi ranks:
NO.
5
Speed of Permitting
NO.
7
Overall Cost of Doing Business
NO.
8
Business Incentives Programs
NO.
8
Cooperative & Responsive State Government
NO.
10
Favorable Regulatory Environment
No Sales Tax on Raw Materials or Electricity
While Mississippi boasts energy costs approximately 15% below the national average, according to EIA (2020), businesses classified by the Department of Revenue as agricultural or manufacturing may apply for a full exemption on sales tax on electricity and raw materials used in the manufacturing process.
Low Turnover Rates
Our region’s low turnover rates in manufacturing (5.7%), compared to the state’s 6.5% turnover, offer a location where companies experience the bottom-line advantages of reduced hiring and training costs.
The Entergy Advantage
Entergy provides reliable electric power at very competitive rates and extensive support for existing and locating new businesses. Additionally, Entergy’s economic development rider can provide a 1-cent-per-kwh discount on electricity use for up to five years. The rider is applicable for eligible companies considering processing, manufacturing or distribution operations that meet the minimum requirement of the program.