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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Warehouse Shipper

💰 $30,000 - $55,000

LogisticsWarehouseShippingSupply Chain

🎯 Role Definition

A Warehouse Shipper is responsible for executing and managing outbound logistics activities including picking, packing, staging, loading, and shipping orders according to company standards and carrier requirements. The Warehouse Shipper ensures accuracy of pick lists and shipping documentation, coordinates with carriers and internal teams, operates material handling equipment safely, and helps maintain inventory integrity and on-time delivery performance. This role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, familiarity with WMS/ERP systems and shipping carriers, and a strong commitment to safety and quality.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Material Handler / Dock Worker
  • Picker/Packer
  • Receiving Clerk

Advancement To:

  • Shipping Lead / Dock Supervisor
  • Logistics Coordinator or Transportation Specialist
  • Inventory Control Specialist / Warehouse Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

  • Forklift Operator (Certified)
  • Inventory Specialist
  • Quality Control Inspector

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Accurately pick customer orders using paper pick lists or a Warehouse Management System (WMS) and verify SKUs, lot numbers, and quantities to ensure order accuracy prior to packing and shipping.
  • Pack products according to size, weight, fragility, and carrier specifications using appropriate dunnage, packaging materials, and sealing methods to prevent damage in transit.
  • Prepare shipping documentation including bills of lading (BOL), packing lists, commercial invoices, freight bills, and carrier manifests, ensuring all paperwork is complete and compliant with internal and external requirements.
  • Label cartons and pallets with correct shipping labels, handling labels, and barcodes, and scan items into the WMS or ERP system using RF scanners to maintain real-time inventory accuracy.
  • Stage and palletize outbound shipments efficiently by constructing secure pallets, applying stretch wrap, corner boards, and straps, and loading pallets by weight distribution and destination to optimize transportation safety and cost.
  • Operate material handling equipment (electric pallet jacks, hand trucks, forklifts) in accordance with OSHA and company safety rules, and complete pre-shift equipment inspections and daily safety checklists.
  • Coordinate carrier pickups and deliveries with third-party carriers (e.g., UPS, FedEx, DHL, LTL providers) and internal transportation teams to confirm pickup windows, appointment times, and any special handling requirements.
  • Complete quality inspections on packaged goods to verify that picked items match order specifications, inspect for damage, and remove defective items from the shipping flow to maintain customer satisfaction.
  • Execute loading and unloading of trailers safely and efficiently, following load plans and paperwork, and checking trailer seals and condition prior to departure to reduce claims and liability.
  • Notify supervisors and shipping leaders proactively about potential shipping delays, backorders, or inventory discrepancies and work collaboratively to implement corrective actions or expedite shipments.
  • Maintain shipment records, update tracking information in the WMS or carrier portals, and communicate tracking numbers and status updates to internal stakeholders and customers as required.
  • Execute cycle counts and assist with full inventory counts as directed by inventory control staff to support ongoing accuracy of inventory levels and locate discrepancies prior to shipping.
  • Process returns, restock items, and handle reverse logistics correctly by inspecting returned goods, documenting condition, and coordinating returns to inventory or disposition according to company policy.
  • Calculate freight weights and dimensions, select the most appropriate carrier and service level based on cost and delivery requirements, and prepare LTL and parcel shipments accordingly.
  • Adhere to hazardous materials (HAZMAT) shipping requirements where applicable by identifying regulated items, completing required documentation, and following packaging and labeling regulations.
  • Maintain a clean and organized shipping area, remove debris and obsolete packaging, and ensure aisles, docks, and staging areas meet safety and cleanliness standards for efficient workflow.
  • Meet daily and weekly shipping KPIs such as orders shipped per hour, on-time shipments, order accuracy rate, and damage-free shipping targets while continuously looking for process improvements.
  • Cross-train on receiving, inventory control, and picking functions to create operational flexibility and support peak shipping periods or employee absences.
  • Participate in root cause investigations for shipping errors and freight claims, provide clear statements of events, preserve evidence (photos, paperwork), and recommend preventive measures to reduce recurrence.
  • Communicate effectively with warehouse supervisors, customer service, and production teams to resolve order discrepancies, clarify special handling instructions, and prioritize urgent or expedited shipments.
  • Monitor and maintain shipping supplies inventory (boxes, labels, tape, straps), place supply orders when necessary, and budget packaging materials to minimize waste and control costs.
  • Follow company policies and regulatory requirements related to safety, security, attendance, and confidentiality of customer and product information while representing the company professionally at the dock.

Secondary Functions

  • Support continuous improvement initiatives by suggesting layout changes, packaging optimizations, and workflow adjustments to increase shipping throughput and reduce damage.
  • Assist with onboarding and training new shipping team members on SOPs, WMS operations, equipment safety, and best packing practices to raise overall team competency.
  • Provide basic data entry and reporting support by updating shipment logs, KPIs, and carrier performance metrics for review by operations managers.
  • Help schedule and coordinate special projects such as inventory relocations, seasonal ramp-ups, product promotions, and vendor pick-ups with minimal disruption to daily shipping operations.
  • Participate in safety committees and toolbox talks, report unsafe conditions, and recommend corrective measures to create a safer workplace and comply with OSHA standards.
  • Cooperate with quality assurance on product hold and quarantine procedures when product issues are discovered during packing or staging and follow disposition instructions.
  • Assist transportation coordinators with tendering loads, securing proof of delivery (POD), and escalating missed or late deliveries to carriers for claim resolution.
  • Provide cross-functional support during peak seasons by filling in for picking, receiving, or packing roles to meet customer demand and maintain SLA commitments.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficient operation of warehouse material handling equipment including electric pallet jacks, hand trucks, and sit/stand forklifts (forklift certification preferred).
  • Hands-on experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and ERP systems for pick/pack/ship workflows, inventory updates, and load planning.
  • Skilled use of RF handheld scanners, barcode readers, and mobile devices to scan picks, confirm shipments, and update inventory in real time.
  • Knowledge of shipping documentation and compliance: bills of lading (BOL), packing lists, commercial invoices, freight bills, and carrier-specific paperwork.
  • Experience preparing parcel and LTL shipments, including measurement (DIM) and weight calculations, palletizing, and selecting appropriate service levels (ground, expedited, same-day).
  • Familiarity with carrier portals and tendering procedures (UPS, FedEx, DHL, common LTL carriers) and basic ability to compare freight rates and transit times.
  • Understanding of hazardous materials (HAZMAT) shipping rules and labeling requirements for regulated products (if applicable).
  • Strong packaging skills including void-fill selection, box strength assessment, crating for fragile items, and use of strapping, stretch wrap, and corner protection.
  • Basic computer literacy: Microsoft Office (Excel for simple reporting), email, and the ability to quickly learn new shipping and inventory software.
  • Competence in performing physical counts, cycle counting procedures, and reconciling inventory variances to support inventory accuracy.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in order verification, labeling, and documentation to reduce shipping errors and claims.
  • Strong time management and prioritization skills to meet shipping deadlines and manage multiple orders during high-volume periods.
  • Clear verbal and written communication to coordinate with carriers, internal teams, and customers regarding order status and shipping issues.
  • Team-oriented mindset, flexibility, and willingness to cross-train and support colleagues across receiving, picking, and packing functions.
  • Problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot shipment discrepancies, damaged goods, and carrier-related issues under pressure.
  • Reliability, punctuality, and a professional work ethic in a physically demanding environment.
  • Adaptability to changing priorities and business needs, especially during seasonal peaks and supply chain disruptions.
  • Safety-first attitude with commitment to following established procedures, PPE requirements, and reporting hazards immediately.
  • Customer service orientation — focused on delivering accurate, on-time shipments and resolving issues to meet customer expectations.
  • Initiative and continuous improvement mindset: identify process bottlenecks and propose practical, data-informed improvements.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or GED required.

Preferred Education:

  • Vocational certificate in logistics, forklift operation, or supply chain fundamentals considered a plus.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Supply Chain Management
  • Logistics and Transportation
  • Industrial Technology
  • Business Administration

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 0–3 years of warehouse or shipping experience for entry-level positions; 1–3+ years preferred for full competency.

Preferred:

  • 1–3 years of hands-on experience in shipping, order fulfillment, palletizing, and carrier coordination.
  • Prior experience utilizing a WMS/ERP, RF scanning, and operating forklifts with certification where required.
  • Demonstrated track record meeting shipping KPIs, managing high-volume order cycles, and maintaining excellent order accuracy and on-time delivery metrics.
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