What Is a Receiver and How to Become One
Table of Contents
What Is a Receiver?
A receiver works in shipping and receiving merchandise or property, typically in a warehouse setting. Their job is to check, inspect, and verify all shipments. Typical duties involve receiving shipments, reviewing all merchandise, staging loading and unloading areas, overseeing relevant data systems, and accurately filling out paperwork. Another type of receiver works in real estate as a liaison between the buyer and lenders during a commercial property foreclosure.
How to Become a Receiver
Qualifications to become a shipping receiver include at least a high school diploma, although some employers prefer candidates with an associate’s degree. A receiver should also have at least basic operations experience in a warehouse, especially in the shipping and receiving of merchandise or property. Other important qualifications are good physical fitness, strong communication skills, and the ability to fill out paperwork accurately. This career also requires a knowledge of all relevant tools and equipment, such as forklifts and hand jacks.
How to Be a Good Receiver
A good receiver has experience performing a wide variety of receiving duties. These duties include checking and inspecting merchandise to verify shipments are accurate and in good condition. This job doesn’t typically require formal education beyond high school, although many receivers earn an associate’s degree, which can potentially advance your career opportunities. A good receiver is in decent physical shape and is able to work nights, holidays, and weekends.
Receiver Job Description Sample
With this Receiver 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 Receiver role.
Job Summary
We are seeking a Receiver to work in our loading bay and warehouse. In this position, you will meet with trucks as they deliver new products, unload the pallets, and store them in the appropriate section of the warehouse. During some shifts, you will also help stock the retail floor. You must ensure all of the necessary inventory is present, report any issues, and make sure that the products are readily available to all members of the retail team. Our ideal applicant has strong physical fitness, forklift experience, and excellent organizational skills.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Unload shipments from trucks
- Store inventory in the correct areas of the warehouse
- Stock the retail floor when necessary
- Count all inventory and report issues to the buyer
- Keep the warehouse organized
Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Warehouse experience
- Forklift operator's license (preferred)
- Organizational skills
- Physical stamina and strength
