Warehouses offer a fun, fast-paced, and flexible work environment. Many positions do not require prior experience to get hired due to on-the-job training. Warehouse work also offers a great opportunity for those who are active and would prefer a physical job over a desk job. No two days look the same in a warehouse!
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So, if you are considering warehouse work, read further. We’ll tackle some frequently asked questions and inform you about what work in a warehouse has to offer.
What are the Requirements for Working in a Warehouse?
Most entry-level warehouse jobs don’t have many requirements outside of age, education level, and physical ability to perform the job. Generally speaking, most warehouse jobs require you to:
- Be of at least 16 years of age (Some positions may require you to be 18 years old)
- Have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Be physically able to lift heavy objects
Specific responsibilities you’ll have depend on the job you apply for. You may also be required to take and pass a drug test and/or a background check.
What Jobs Can I Get in a Warehouse?
Warehouses offer a variety of positions. Many of these jobs you can apply for without previous experience.
Warehouse Stocking Associate - Warehouse stocking associates keep track of inventory as it arrives and ensure that it gets stocked in the correct location. A stocking associate may need to operate a forklift, and use handheld RF scanners to keep track of inventory and its location in the warehouse.
Warehouse Sorting Associate - Warehouse sorters accept incoming packages, inspect them, compare items to invoices, and handle any missing or damaged inventory. They also sort and organize items for shelving. You may work on a conveyor belt, or work all around the warehouse.
Warehouse Packer - A warehouse packer is responsible for packing orders accurately and securely. It is crucial for packers to understand the careful handling of the items they pack so they are not damaged during the shipping process or in storage.
Shipping and Receiving Clerk - As a shipping and receiving clerk, you may examine and print incoming packing slips along with creating mailing labels for shipping purposes. You will likely be recording and inspecting incoming items.
The jobs listed above are just a few of the many available positions in warehouses. Learn about more jobs you can get in a warehouse in our article, “List of 14 Different Warehouse Jobs”. There is something for everyone in a warehouse, especially if you are someone who enjoys the active lifestyle warehouse work brings.
What Hours do People Work in Warehouses?
A big perk of working in a warehouse is the flexibility different shifts have to offer. In most cases, warehouse work is not limited to standard 9 to 5 hours, making it so an employee can schedule work around his or her daily life. Depending on the warehouse you work at, you may have morning shifts, midday, evening, or night shifts.
Plus, more often than not, most warehouses will allow you to have a consistent schedule. If morning shifts work best for your lifestyle, then it is likely that you can secure morning shifts on a consistent basis. This of course depends on the individual company and its policies, but generally warehouses offer the flexibility needed for many different lifestyles.
Can I Move up Working in a Warehouse?
Yes! There is room to move up if you are working in a warehouse. Climbing the ladder comes with experience, and if you know you want to be with an employer long term, it is likely that you can advance with good performance. Further, many companies understand the benefits of hiring from within. Even if you begin your warehouse career at entry level, you generally will have the option to advance to a mid-level, or senior management position.
Three tips to help you advance your career in a warehouse are as follows:
Make connections:
- Between your coworkers and management, try to prioritize speaking with and getting to know different people. Making connections at work can serve you well in the long run – and also gives you a chance to make some friends.
Be direct:
- If you do want to climb the ladder at your warehouse, make it known. It is okay to speak with your boss and supervisor – even early in your career – to let them know where you’d like to end up in the company. Being direct in the beginning can benefit you long term.
Get certified:
- You typically don’t need any certifications to work an entry-level warehouse job. However, certifications could be a good investment if you want more responsibility later in your career. Common warehouse certifications people get can be Forklift, OSHA Warehouse Safety Certification, Certified Production Technician certification, among others.
How Much Money do Warehouse Workers Make?
The amount you earn working in a warehouse depends on your employer, job title, and level of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, warehouse handlers/associates made an average of $39,760 in 2023. The top 10 percent of warehouse associates and handlers earned closer to $50,280 or more in 2023. As you gain experience and responsibility, and earn certifications, you may see an increase in your pay.
What is Working in a Warehouse Like?
Working in a warehouse is fast paced, and involves a lot of physically demanding work, especially if you are involved in the stocking and organization of inventory. Typically, there will be a specific weight you must be able to lift to work in a warehouse, it may be up to 50 pounds.
Depending on your job title, you may also operate various equipment, from handheld scanners for inventory, to a forklift to organize pallets. You will typically be provided with training on handling and using equipment. Forklifts will require specific certification.
Warehouses tend to be loud and hot, especially during the summer. Also depending on your position, you may not necessarily spend the majority of your day in the warehouse. You could also work on a loading dock to load trucks, drive trucks, or even run in and out of stores as a shopper team member.
Is Working in a Warehouse Right for Me?
If you are someone who enjoys staying active, with keen organizational skills, and personal initiative, you may enjoy working in a warehouse. Each day can bring something new and there tends to be room for upward mobility in the workplace.
Explore different warehouse jobs available near you today!