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Freight Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Inspect working conditions of tools and equipment needed for safe operation within the workplace ... Freight Operations Supervisors are required to: * Lift objects of various shapes, sizes and weights ...

Referral bonus, Clean inspection bonus * General freight - mostly no-touch * Assistance in acquiring your own MC * Steady OTR deliveries across the continental U.S. Support: * No forced dispatch * No ...

Referral bonus, Clean inspection bonus * General freight - mostly no-touch * Assistance in acquiring your own MC * Steady OTR deliveries across the continental U.S. Support: * No forced dispatch * No ...

Referral bonus, Clean inspection bonus * General freight - mostly no-touch * Assistance in acquiring your own MC * Steady OTR deliveries across the continental U.S. Support: * No forced dispatch * No ...

Regional CDL Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$3.0K/wk

Inspect trailer for properly loaded and secured freight. Perform count check of items and check customer invoices of products that have been loaded. Check and complete in an accurate and in legible ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$1.5K - $1.9K/wk

Tucker Freight Lines is Now Hiring Dedicated Regional CDL-A Company Drivers Average Up to $1,900 ... Paid detention, layover, and breakdown * $100 clean inspection incentive * Quarterly safety ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$1.5K - $1.9K/wk

Tucker Freight Lines is Now Hiring Dedicated Regional CDL-A Company Drivers Average Up to $1,900 ... Paid detention, layover, and breakdown * $100 clean inspection incentive * Quarterly safety ...

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Freight Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do freight inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight inspector in Chicago, IL is $8.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.89 and $8.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a quality inspector?

To become a freight inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of inspection procedures and safety standards. Relevant skills include attention to detail, ability to operate inspection tools, and understanding of freight handling. Certifications such as Certified Inspector or OSHA safety training can enhance job prospects.

What is a freight inspector?

A freight inspector is a professional responsible for examining shipments to ensure they meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards. They check for damages, proper documentation, and compliance with industry regulations, often using tools like inspection reports and safety equipment. This role typically requires attention to detail and knowledge of transportation and cargo handling procedures.

What are some common challenges Freight Inspectors face when ensuring compliance with shipping regulations?

Freight Inspectors often encounter challenges such as accurately identifying damaged or improperly labeled cargo, keeping up with frequently changing shipping regulations, and managing high volumes of shipments within tight timeframes. They must pay close attention to detail while working in fast-paced, sometimes noisy environments, and coordinate with warehouse staff, truck drivers, and compliance officers to resolve discrepancies quickly. Staying organized and effectively communicating with different teams are crucial skills for overcoming these challenges and ensuring safe, compliant freight operations.

What is the highest paying job on a cargo ship?

The highest paying job on a cargo ship is typically the captain or master, who is responsible for overall vessel operation and safety. They often earn the most due to their experience, leadership role, and responsibility, with salaries varying based on the ship's size, route, and company policies.

What Does a Freight Inspector Do?

As a freight inspector, your duties are to inspect shipments to ensure that they are packed and secured correctly and loaded in the proper container. You also make sure that contents are in compliance with all freight regulations. You review cargo manifests and file reports after a shipment ua complete, inspect them when they arrive at a shipping location, such as a port, rail yard or freight depot, and advise shipping crews whenever freight is not stored correctly so that they avoid accidents. Your responsibilities differ slightly if you are dealing with ships, trucks, or trains.

What is the difference between Freight Inspector vs Cargo Auditor?

AspectFreight InspectorCargo Auditor
CertificationsOften requires freight inspection certifications or relevant safety trainingMay require auditing or logistics certifications
Work EnvironmentInspects shipments at warehouses, ports, or transportation hubsReviews shipping records and verifies cargo accuracy, often in office or warehouse settings
Employer & IndustryLogistics, transportation, freight companiesShipping companies, freight forwarders, logistics firms

While both roles involve freight and cargo, Freight Inspectors focus on physically examining shipments for damages, compliance, and safety, whereas Cargo Auditors verify shipping records and ensure cargo accuracy. Both positions are essential in the logistics chain but serve different functions related to freight management.

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

To thrive as a Freight Inspector, you need strong attention to detail, knowledge of shipping and receiving procedures, and familiarity with safety regulations, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency in using inspection tools, warehouse management systems, and sometimes handheld scanners is typically required. Effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and reliability are valuable soft skills that help manage discrepancies and coordinate with logistics teams. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate freight handling, compliance with regulations, and smooth supply chain operations.

What kind of inspector gets paid the most?

In the freight inspection field, senior or specialized inspectors with extensive experience, certifications, or expertise in specific cargo types tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors working in high-value or hazardous cargo environments, or those with advanced skills in quality control and compliance, generally receive higher pay. Salary can also vary based on industry, location, and employer size.

What are Freight Inspectors?

Freight Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining, measuring, and documenting cargo shipments to ensure they comply with regulations and company standards. They check for damage, verify quantities, and make sure the freight matches shipping documentation. Freight Inspectors play a crucial role in preventing losses due to damaged or misrouted goods and help maintain safety and compliance in transportation. Their work is essential for the efficient and secure movement of freight across supply chains.
What are the most commonly searched types of Freight Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Freight Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Freight Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Freight Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Freight Operations Specialist/CDL Driver

Roadrunner

Bolingbrook, IL • On-site

$27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a reliable and versatile team member to join our LTL service center. This position is a hybrid role that combines local pickup and delivery driving, dock work, and general support for service center operations. The ideal candidate will be safety-conscious, customer-service oriented, and willing to contribute wherever needed to ensure smooth terminal operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Pickup & Delivery (P&D) Driving:
    • Safely operate commercial motor vehicles (typically Class [A or B] straight trucks or tractor-trailers) on designated local routes.
    • Perform timely and efficient pickup and delivery of LTL freight.
    • Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections in accordance with DOT regulations and company policy.
    • Interact professionally and courteously with customers, representing EFS and Roadrunner positively.
    • Accurately complete and manage shipping documents (Bills of Lading, delivery receipts, manifests).
    • Utilize handheld scanners and other company technology for tracking and documentation.
    • Secure freight properly using appropriate equipment (load bars, straps, etc.) to prevent damage.
    • Adhere strictly to all DOT regulations, traffic laws, and company safety protocols.
  • Dock Operations:
    • Load and unload freight from trailers and straight trucks using forklifts, pallet jacks, hand trucks, and other material handling equipment.
    • Sort, segregate, stage, and properly place freight on the dock or load into outbound trailers according to destination.
    • Verify freight piece counts and check for damage, noting exceptions according to company procedures.
    • Operate dock equipment safely and efficiently.
    • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment on the dock and in the yard.
    • Assist with weighing and dimensioning freight as needed.
  • Hostling (Yard Jockey):
    • Operate a hostler (yard truck) to reposition trailers between dock doors, staging areas, and parking spots.
    • Spot trailers for loading and unloading based on dock assignments and schedules.
    • Perform pre- and post-use inspections on yard equipment to ensure operational safety.
    • Communicate with dispatchers, dock personnel, and drivers to coordinate trailer movements.
    • Conduct yard checks to track trailer inventory and update records.
    • Ensure proper chocking, trailer placement, and trailer brake application.
    • Maintain awareness of pedestrian and vehicle traffic in the yard to prevent accidents.
    • Assist with managing trailer flow during peak shipping/receiving times.
  • General Duties:
    • Assist with general terminal upkeep and organization.
    • Participate actively in safety meetings and training sessions.
    • Communicate effectively with dispatch, supervisors, and other team members.
    • Perform other duties as assigned by management to support overall terminal and company needs. This may include yard checks, minor equipment maintenance assistance, or supporting other operational functions.
    • Demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to adapt to changing operational demands and priorities.


Required Qualifications:

  • Valid CDL (Class A or B, depending on equipment used)
  • Clean driving record that meets DOT standards
  • Ability to pass a DOT physical and pre-employment drug screen
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and operate forklifts/pallet jacks
  • Ability to work in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain) both indoors and outdoors
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and team-first attitude
  • Flexibility to work varying shifts as needed
  • Ability to read, write, and understand English, including shipping documents and safety regulations
  • Commitment to safety and adherence to procedures

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Forklift certification
  • Prior experience in LTL, freight handling, or dock operations

Physical Demands:

  • Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry freight frequently, weighing up to [e.g., 75] pounds, and occasionally heavier items with assistance.
  • Ability to sit for extended periods while driving, and stand, walk, bend, stoop, twist, reach, and climb frequently during dock work and deliveries.
  • Ability to climb in and out of tractors and trailers repeatedly.
  • Ability to work in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain) both indoors and outdoors.
  • Good hearing and vision (meeting DOT requirements).

Work Environment:

  • Fast-paced LTL terminal environment.
  • Exposure to noise, vibrations, dust, diesel fumes, and outdoor weather conditions.
  • Work involves operating heavy machinery (trucks, forklifts).

Compensation

  • The compensation for this role is $27.50 per hour.

Location

  • Chicago, IL

Benefits

  • PTO
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401k

Expedited Freight Systems is a subsidiary of Roadrunner Transportation, which is building something special with great people, a winning culture, and a differentiated service offering in the marketplace. Join us today to grow your career!
We will not accept unsolicited candidates from external recruiters or recruiting agencies. Thank you!

Summary

Roadrunner's Smart Long Haul is revolutionizing the industry with significant investments in technology, a culture of continuous improvement, and intelligent and efficient direct routing. A Top 100 Trucking company by Inbound Logistics and a Top Tier Service Carrier by Mastio, Roadrunner is an LTL industry leader on the rise.
As a long-haul, metro-to-metro LTL carrier, Roadrunner offers more direct routes than any other nationwide Less-than-Truckload carrier in the United States. With a nationwide presence, terminals across 40+ markets, and more than $400 million in revenue, the company's Smart Long-Haul Network is the preferred choice for shippers looking to move freight quickly and reliably.
Roadrunner is growing and looking for a highly motivated Team to join our winning team. If you are results driven and looking for a rapidly growing company with high growth and earnings potential, apply today!
We Run Safe. We Run Smart. We Run Together.

#LI-OnsiteChicago, IL