Freight Handler
What Is a Freight Handler and How to Become One
By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team
Table of Contents
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.
How to Become a Freight Handler
Obtaining a position as a freight handler requires being at least 18 years old and having a clean background check. High school diplomas are an asset, but they are not always necessary. Large product volume retailers, wholesalers, and any other business with a warehouse consistently hire freight handlers. Qualifications often include being able to work odd hours because many warehouses operate 24/7. Your duties require you to be able to lift and move heavy objects, making physical skills essential. Other responsibilities of a freight handler involve operating hand trucks and lifts, so prior certification as a lift operator helps when applying.
Freight Handler Job Description Sample
With this Freight Handler job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Freight Handler role.
Job Summary
We have an opening for a dependable Freight Handler. Under the supervision of the operations manager, you will load and unload truck trailers and transport goods around the worksite, either manually or with powered equipment. When we receive a shipment, you will move the goods into the proper storage location. You must always follow all safety regulations when operating your equipment. We prefer applicants with one year of freight handling experience, but we are willing to train the right person.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Unload freight deliveries onto wood pallets and move goods into proper storage areas
- Sort and organize products
- Pack and label outbound shipments and load them onto trucks
- Input every shipment into the inventory system
Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED certificate (preferred)
- 1+ years of warehouse experience (preferred)
- Experience operating a forklift, electric pallet jack, and other warehouse equipment
- Ability to stand, bend, and walk for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds
- Ability to pass a background check and drug test
- Reliable transportation
- Flexible schedule
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