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Unloading Containers Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

xpress hire llc

Forklift Operator

Montclair, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Their other main duties and responsibilities include: * loading and unloading containers and trucks. * moving goods to designated areas. * performing minor maintenance tasks on forklift trucks ...

Alcon3Pl

Warehouse Worker/ City of Carson

Carson, CA

$16.50 - $20/hr

Your main responsibilities will include loading and unloading containers. Join us and play a key role in our warehouse operations! Requirements: * Must be able to lift 40lbs * Can work in a fast ...

Alcon3Pl

Warehouse Worker/ City of Vernon

Vernon, CA

$17.25 - $21/hr

Your main responsibilities will include loading and unloading containers. Join us and play a key role in our warehouse operations! Requirements: * Must be able to lift 40lbs * Can work in a fast ...

Alcon3Pl

Warehouse Worker / City Of Carson

Carson, CA

$16.50 - $20/hr

Your main responsibilities will include include loading and unloading containers. Join us and play a key role in our warehouse operations! Requirements: * Must be able to lift 40lbs * Can work in a ...

Kimball Equipment

Warehouse Associate

Corona, CA · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

Unloading containers * Cutting belts * Picking and packing parts * Moving parts around the yard and shop * Shipping and receiving of parts * Organize and document service visits Warehouse Worker ...

Kimball Equipment Company

Warehouse Associate

Corona, CA · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

Unloading containers * Cutting belts * Picking and packing parts * Moving parts around the yard and shop * Shipping and receiving of parts * Organize and document service visits Warehouse Worker ...

Medical Environmental Technologies

Driver

Commerce, CA · On-site

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and navigate loading/unloading containers * Reliable, punctual, and professional demeanor * Must pass a background check and drug screening * Prior experience in waste ...

Team 360 Staffing

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Warehouse Lumper

Compton, CA · On-site

$20/hr

This role focuses on unloading containers in a fast-paced warehouse environment. Containers are generally straightforward, with manageable workloads, making this a great opportunity for dependable ...

JobSource

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Electric Pallet Jack Forklift

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Unloading containers Company Description There are no fees or costs at any stage of the hiring process for applicants or employees. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all applicants ...

Connect Staffing

Receiving Clerk

Mira Loma, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Experience unloading containers and verifying inbound freight. * Forklift certification or experience operating a stand-up forklift, reach truck, or electric pallet jack (EPJ). * Ability to read and ...

Cozey

Fulfillment Center Clerk

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Ensure daily Core & Support Activities (Unloading containers, Receiving, Picking, Staging, Shipping, Special Orders, Quality Control, etc.) are completed on time & in full. * Propose & lead various ...

It's Caliber

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Warehouse Loading/Unloading

Walnut, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

The ideal candidate will assist with loading, unloading, sorting, and moving products in a fast ... Load and unload trailers and containers. * Sort, stack, and palletize products. * Move materials ...

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All JobsUnloading Containers JobsUnloading Containers Jobs in California

Unloading Containers information

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$11

$16

$22

How much do unloading containers jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for unloading containers in California is $16.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a container unloader job?

A container unloader job involves removing goods and materials from shipping containers, often in warehouses or distribution centers. Workers typically use equipment like forklifts and follow safety protocols to efficiently handle and organize cargo. The role requires physical strength, attention to safety, and sometimes certification in equipment operation.

What are some common challenges faced when unloading containers, and how can they be managed effectively?

One of the main challenges in unloading containers is handling heavy or awkwardly packed items, which can increase the risk of injury and slow down the process. To manage these challenges, workers typically use equipment like pallet jacks and forklifts, and follow safety protocols such as team lifting and wearing protective gear. Communication within the team is crucial to coordinate movements and ensure everyone’s safety. Additionally, staying organized and following a clear unloading plan helps reduce errors and improve efficiency.

How much do you get paid to unload trucks?

Unloading containers is typically an entry-level job with pay ranging from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and employer. Some positions may offer overtime pay or benefits, and physical strength and safety training are often required.

What does unloading containers involve?

Unloading containers typically involves removing goods or cargo from shipping containers, either manually or with equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks. Workers check inventory, inspect items for damage, and organize products for storage or distribution. This job often requires physical strength, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols to prevent injuries. It is commonly performed in warehouses, ports, or distribution centers as part of the logistics and supply chain process.

How much can you make delivering shipping containers?

Unloading containers is typically part of warehouse or logistics jobs, and pay varies based on location, experience, and employer. Workers may earn hourly wages ranging from minimum wage to over $20 per hour, with some positions offering overtime pay for longer shifts. Certification in forklift operation or heavy equipment can increase earning potential.

Is it hard to get a job on a container ship?

Landing a job as an unloading containers worker on a container ship can be competitive and often requires physical strength, safety training, and sometimes certifications like OSHA. Experience in manual labor and familiarity with port operations can improve chances, but entry-level positions are available for those willing to meet the basic requirements and pass safety assessments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Unloading Containers Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Unloading Containers Worker, you need good physical stamina, basic math skills, and an awareness of workplace safety, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pallet jacks, forklifts, and warehouse management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe handling of goods and smooth coordination with warehouse teams.

What is the difference between Unloading Containers vs Loading Containers?

AspectUnloading ContainersLoading Containers
Primary TaskRemoving goods from shipping containersPlacing goods into shipping containers
Work EnvironmentDockyards, warehouses, portsDockyards, warehouses, ports
CredentialsTypically no special certifications requiredTypically no special certifications required
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, warehousingLogistics, shipping, warehousing

Unloading Containers and Loading Containers are complementary roles in logistics. Unloading involves removing goods from containers, while loading focuses on placing goods into containers. Both roles require physical stamina and are performed in similar environments, often without specialized certifications. Understanding the distinction helps in job searches and career planning within the shipping and warehousing industries.

What are popular job titles related to Unloading Containers jobs in California? For Unloading Containers jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Unloading Containers jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Unloading Containers jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Unloading Containers jobs? Cities in California with the most Unloading Containers job openings:
Unloading Containers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unloading Containers job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,075 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Forklift Operator

xpress hire llc

Montclair, CA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Forklift operator duties and responsibilities:
Forklift operators are responsible for manoeuvring forklifts safely and efficiently in busy industrial sites, such as warehouses, factories, timber yards and shipping terminals.
Their other main duties and responsibilities include:
  • loading and unloading containers and trucks.
  • moving goods to designated areas.
  • performing minor maintenance tasks on forklift trucks.
  • stocktaking and some administrative tasks relating to incoming and outgoing goods.