Freight and Stock Handler Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of logistics, the role of freight and stock handlers is more crucial than ever.

As the backbone of supply chains and distribution networks, these individuals ensure the seamless movement and storage of goods. With increasing demand, the need for skilled handlers who can effectively manage, organize, and track inventory is on the rise.

So, what’s truly expected from a freight and stock handler?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this position,
• A hiring manager in search of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of freight and stock handling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a flexible freight and stock handler job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Freight and Stock Handler Duties and Responsibilities

Freight and Stock Handlers play a crucial role in the supply chain, ensuring the safe and efficient handling of goods and materials.

They are responsible for a range of tasks, including inventory management, loading and unloading goods, and ensuring the proper organization and distribution of stock.

The duties and responsibilities of a Freight and Stock Handler include:

• Receiving and verifying incoming shipments, ensuring accuracy in terms of quantity and quality
• Packing and unpacking items for storage in stockrooms, warehouses, or storage yards
• Loading and unloading goods from trucks, ships, or other forms of transportation
• Utilizing handling equipment such as forklifts, conveyors, or hoists to move goods
• Keeping an accurate record of inventory, and notifying supervisors when stock is low
• Maintaining a clean and safe work environment, adhering to safety procedures and protocols
• Sorting and placing materials or items on racks, shelves, or in bins according to organizational standards
• Assisting in the preparation of orders for dispatch, including labeling, palletizing, and wrapping goods
• Conducting regular stock checks and reporting any discrepancies
• Coordinating with team members and other departments to ensure smooth logistics operations

 

Freight and Stock Handler Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a reliable and efficient Freight and Stock Handler to join our team.

The primary responsibilities will include loading and unloading goods from delivery vans, moving stock to storage areas, and maintaining inventory records.

Ideal candidates will be physically fit, able to handle heavy loads, and familiar with warehouse operations.

The goal is to ensure that our supply chain and logistics operations run smoothly and effectively to satisfy our customers.

 

Responsibilities

• Receive, store and distribute goods, ensuring the right products are delivered to the right location on time
• Assist in loading and unloading trucks, moving items from delivery trucks to storage areas
• Organize stock and maintain inventory, ensuring all items are stored in the correct area
• Keep records of goods received and dispatched
• Check supply invoices to ensure they match the delivered goods
• Inspect goods received for damage or discrepancies
• Maintain cleanliness and organization within the warehouse
• Comply with company policies and legal guidelines

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Freight and Stock Handler or in a similar role
• Good physical health and stamina; ability to lift heavy items
• Familiarity with modern warehousing practices and methods
• Good organizational and time management skills
• Ability to read and understand inventory and shipping documents
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid certification to operate forklifts is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for overtime work

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Freight and Stock Handler
• Work Environment: Warehouse setting. This role involves physical labor and may require working in various weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Warehouse Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Freight and Stock Handler Do?

Freight and Stock Handlers work primarily in warehouses, distribution centers, and production facilities.

They are a crucial part of the supply chain, ensuring that goods are moved, stored, and managed efficiently.

Their main duties include receiving, storing, and organizing goods.

They unload freight from incoming shipments, inspect goods for damage, and verify quantities against shipping documents.

Once goods are received, Freight and Stock Handlers move the items to the appropriate storage areas.

This often involves operating machinery like forklifts or pallet jacks.

They also maintain inventory records and assist in performing physical counts to ensure inventory accuracy.

Their job also involves preparing goods for shipment.

This includes picking items from the stock, packing them securely, and loading them onto outgoing trucks.

In addition, Freight and Stock Handlers maintain cleanliness and orderliness in the warehouse.

They may be responsible for tasks like sweeping, dusting, or disposing of empty pallets.

Finally, they may also assist in maintaining safety standards in the warehouse by following safety procedures and using protective equipment when necessary.

 

Freight and Stock Handler Qualifications and Skills

Freight and Stock Handlers require a set of specialized skills and qualifications to efficiently manage, organize, and move goods.

These include:

• Organizational skills to manage and keep track of inventory, ensuring that items are properly stored, accounted for, and easily retrievable.
• Physical stamina and strength to handle heavy merchandise and remain on their feet for extended periods.
• Attention to detail to ensure that all items are correctly logged, packed, and shipped according to specific protocols.
• Time management skills to perform tasks efficiently and meet shipping deadlines.
• Basic mathematical skills for counting and tracking inventory, as well as weighing and measuring goods when needed.
• Communication skills to effectively coordinate with team members, supervisors, and sometimes customers or vendors.
• Safety awareness to work in a manner that minimizes risk of injury to self and others, especially when handling potentially dangerous goods or heavy equipment.
• Ability to operate material handling equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks and hand trucks.

 

Freight and Stock Handler Experience Requirements

Entry-level freight and stock handlers typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent and will receive on-the-job training to gain the necessary skills.

This initial experience may include understanding the processes of receiving, organizing, and shipping merchandise, and learning how to use necessary equipment like forklifts and pallet jacks.

Those with 1 to 2 years of experience may have gained a broader knowledge of inventory management systems, safety regulations, and the efficient handling of goods.

Their experience may also include the handling of fragile or perishable goods, and they might have obtained certification in the operation of heavy machinery.

Freight and stock handlers with more than 3 years of experience are usually adept at coordinating and tracking inventory, managing stock control systems, and are often familiar with warehouse management software.

They may have also gained experience in training and supervising new employees.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have extensive knowledge of supply chain processes and warehouse management.

They may have been responsible for supervising teams, enforcing safety policies, or implementing efficiency measures within their previous roles, making them suitable for management or supervisory positions.

 

Freight and Stock Handler Education and Training Requirements

Freight and Stock Handlers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Their role does not necessarily require higher academic qualifications, but they should have strong skills in organization, communication, and basic math.

Training for this role is often provided on the job, where they learn how to operate various types of machinery, handle freight and stock efficiently, and adhere to safety procedures.

In certain roles, especially those involving complex machinery or hazardous materials, Freight and Stock Handlers may need to possess certifications in machine operation or safety management.

While not a necessity, prior experience in warehouse settings or a background in logistics can be beneficial.

Continuous professional development, through short courses on inventory management, forklift operation, or workplace safety, can further enhance their skills and job prospects.

 

Freight and Stock Handler Salary Expectations

A Freight and Stock Handler earns an average salary of $28,350 (USD) per year.

The actual income can fluctuate based on the number of hours worked, the location of employment, and the specific industry.

 

Freight and Stock Handler Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Freight and Stock Handler need?

Freight and Stock Handlers should possess physical strength and stamina to handle heavy objects.

They should also have good organizational and time management skills to sort, store, and track inventory efficiently.

Basic math skills for inventory counts and strong attention to detail to avoid errors are also required.

 

Do Freight and Stock Handlers need any specific qualifications?

No specific academic qualifications are needed to become a Freight and Stock Handler.

However, high school education or its equivalent is often preferred by employers.

On-the-job training is typically provided to new hires.

 

What should you look for in a Freight and Stock Handler resume?

A Freight and Stock Handler’s resume should highlight previous experience in handling stocks and freight if any.

Look for skills like physical strength, attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work in a team.

Certifications in forklift operation or safety training can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Freight and Stock Handler?

A good Freight and Stock Handler is physically fit to lift and move heavy items for an extended period.

They are well-organized, detail-oriented, and can keep track of inventory.

They should also be reliable and able to work well in a team to ensure smooth operation of the warehouse or storage facility.

 

What are the daily duties of a Freight and Stock Handler?

On a typical day, a Freight and Stock Handler starts by checking the incoming and outgoing inventory.

They load and unload items from delivery trucks, organize and store items in the proper locations, and maintain records of inventory.

They also perform regular checks of the stock to identify any damaged items and ensure the cleanliness and safety of the work area.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the nitty-gritty of what it really means to be a Freight and Stock Handler.

Guess what?

It’s not just about moving and storing goods.

It’s about orchestrating the seamless flow of products, one box at a time.

With our comprehensive Freight and Stock Handler job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to make your next career move.

But why halt your progress there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next rung on the ladder to meticulously created job listings or optimizing your resume to its utmost potential.

Remember:

Every shipment handled, every stock managed, forms an integral part of the larger logistics framework.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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