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Freight Handler Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Freight Handler

Mcgregor, IA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Pay $18 - $22 / HOUR Monday - Friday, 4:00 AM - 1:00 PM | Day Shift Magnum is hiring a Freight Handler to support our dock operations. This role is responsible for loading and unloading semi-trailers ...

Freight Handler

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$600 - $800/wk

Freight Handler Ankeny IA Freight Handler $600-$800 per week/paid weekly People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status ...

Freight Handler (11am-8pm) Department: Des Moines IA Job Status: Non-Exempt Compensation: Direct Reports: No COMPANY OVERVIEW CrossCountry Freight Solutions (CCFS) is an exceptional company with a ...

Freight Handler

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$600 - $800/wk

ANKENY IA Freight Handler $600-$800 per week/paid weekly People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status quo, work hard to ...

Freight Handler

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$600 - $800/wk

ANKENY IA Freight Handler $600-$800 per week/paid weekly People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status quo, work hard to ...

Freight Handler

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$20.20 - $23.70/hr

Weekday - 3rd Location Supply Chain eComm Whse Logistics #9281 1501 E MAPLELEAF DR, MOUNT PLEASANT, IA, 52641, US Job Overview Career opportunities in Freight Handling roles include Receiving ...

Freight Handler

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$20.20 - $23.70/hr

Weekday - 1st, Weekday - 2nd, Weekend - 4th Location Supply Chain Regional #6009 1501 E MAPLELEAF DR, MOUNT PLEASANT, IA, 52641, US Job Overview Career opportunities in Freight Handling roles include ...

Warehouse Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$700 - $1.2K/wk

Part Freight Hauler, Part Vendor Compliance and as needed Freight Handler. People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status ...

Warehouse Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$700 - $1.2K/wk

Part Freight Hauler, Part Vendor Compliance and as needed Freight Handler. People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status ...

Warehouse Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$700 - $1.2K/wk

Part Freight Hauler, Part Vendor Compliance and as needed Freight Handler. People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status ...

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Showing results 1-20

Freight Handler information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do freight handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight handler in Iowa is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freight handler?

A freight handler makes sure cargo transport operations go smoothly for merchandise warehouses. The qualifications you need for this career are a high school diploma, physical stamina, and a strong work ethic. Previous experience with warehouse work is beneficial. As a freight handler, your job duties are loading and unloading truck trailers, guiding truck drivers into loading docks, using forklifts and other equipment, and keeping detailed freight records. You need strong teamwork skills, safety awareness, and organizational skills.

What does a freight handler do?

A Freight Handler is responsible for loading, unloading, and moving freight within warehouses, distribution centers, or shipping/receiving docks. They ensure that goods are safely and efficiently transferred between trucks, trains, ships, and storage areas. Freight Handlers often use equipment like forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks to move heavy or bulky items. Their work is crucial to keeping supply chains running smoothly and making sure products reach their destination on time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freight handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freight Handler, you need strong physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), pallet jacks, forklifts, and barcode scanners is typically required, and OSHA certification may be preferred. Reliability, teamwork, and good communication are valuable soft skills that help manage fast-paced, physically demanding environments. These combined abilities are crucial for ensuring the accurate and efficient movement of goods, workplace safety, and overall supply chain effectiveness.

What are some common challenges freight handlers face, and how can they be managed effectively?

Freight Handlers often encounter challenges such as handling heavy or awkward loads, working in fast-paced environments, and managing time during peak shipping periods. To manage these effectively, it’s essential to use proper lifting techniques, stay organized, and communicate clearly with team members. Many companies provide safety training and encourage collaboration to ensure efficiency and reduce the risk of injury, making teamwork and attention to detail crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Freight Handler vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectFreight HandlerWarehouse Worker
CredentialsNone specific, OSHA safety training often requiredNone specific, OSHA safety training often required
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading freight at docks, shipping yardsOrganizing, storing, and managing inventory in warehouses
Industry UsageTransport, logistics, shipping companiesWarehousing, distribution centers, retail logistics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Freight Handlers and Warehouse Workers operate within logistics and shipping environments, Freight Handlers primarily focus on loading and unloading freight at docks, whereas Warehouse Workers manage inventory and organize storage within warehouses. Both roles often require OSHA safety training but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

How much does a freight handler earn?

The average freight handler earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced handlers or those working in high-demand areas can earn higher wages. Many freight handlers work full-time shifts, often requiring physical strength and the ability to operate equipment like forklifts.

Is a freight handler a hard job?

A freight handler job involves physically lifting, moving, and organizing heavy goods, which can be physically demanding and require stamina. It often requires working in a fast-paced environment, sometimes with irregular hours, and may involve operating equipment like forklifts. The job's difficulty depends on individual fitness and experience with manual labor and safety procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Freight Handler jobs in Iowa?

For Freight Handler jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Freight Handler jobs in IA?

For Freight Handler jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Freight Handler job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,719 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Freight Handler

TA Dedicated

Mcgregor, IA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


TA Dedicated rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

  • Hiring City SIOUX CITY
    IA
  • Pay $18 - $22 / HOUR

Monday - Friday, 4:00 AM - 1:00 PM | Day Shift
Magnum is hiring a Freight Handler to support our dock operations. This role is responsible for loading and unloading semi-trailers, moving freight safely, and ensuring shipments are accurate and on time.
If you have forklift experience and enjoy working in a fast-paced warehouse environment, this could be a great fit.
As a Freight Handler, you will help ensure freight moves safely and efficiently through our dock.
  • Unload freight from incoming semi-trailers on the receiving side of the dock.
  • Reload freight into outbound trailers using forklifts and/or hand loading
  • Match freight to delivery manifests and confirm correct destinations
  • Inspect shipments for damage
  • Enter shipment data into the computer system
  • Maintain a clean and organized dock area
  • Remove broken pallets, sweep trailers, and maintain dock cleanliness
  • Perform additional duties as assigned

This is a full-time position with a complete benefits package, including:
  • Health Insurance with HSA/FSA Options
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Optional Supplemental Coverage Available: Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Accident/Hospital Confinement Insurance, Critical Illness/Cancer Insurance
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