Freight Handler Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the globalized world, the role of freight handlers has never been more vital.

As international trade continues to grow, so does the demand for efficient, reliable individuals who can manage, move, and maintain our freight systems.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a freight handler?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of freight handling,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable freight handler job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Contents show

Freight Handler Duties and Responsibilities

Freight Handlers play a crucial role in the logistics industry, ensuring goods are safely loaded and unloaded from vehicles and transported to their destination.

They are responsible for handling a wide variety of goods and materials that are transported in trucks, trains, ships, or planes.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

Load and unload goods from delivery vans or trailers.
Check and record the number and condition of goods during loading and unloading to ensure the correct amount is received and no damage has occurred.
Operate equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks to move freight into storage or onto trucks.
Inspect freight for damage and report any issues to supervisors or dispatchers.
Sort goods by destination and ensure they are stacked correctly for transportation.
Maintain records of all freight handled, including details of delivery and any issues encountered.
Follow all safety procedures and protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
Help in maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in the warehouse or docking area.
Assist in inventory management, keeping track of stock and reporting any discrepancies.

Freight Handler Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent Freight Handler to ensure that all our shipments are handled promptly, efficiently, and safely.

The Freight Handler’s responsibilities include loading and unloading goods from delivery vans or trucks, checking and documenting incoming shipments, and inspecting all freight for damage.

The ideal candidate has a strong work ethic, pays attention to detail and understands the importance of workplace safety.

Ultimately, the Freight Handler should be able to ensure our customers receive the correct deliveries on time.

Responsibilities

Receive and check incoming pick tickets
Retrieve orders according to quantity, size etc. ensuring accuracy
Load and unload packages from incoming trucks
Inspect contents to ensure they are undamaged
Verify packages according to order and invoices (quantity, quality, price etc.)
Conduct inventory of products, reporting any shortages or discrepancies
Ensure workspace is free of debris and remove safety hazards
Coordinate with team members to conduct day-to-day tasks

Qualifications

Proven experience as freight handler is a plus
Ability to read and write English
Great physical stamina and manual dexterity
Familiarity with modern warehousing practices and methods
Good organizational and time management skills
Ability to lift heavy objects
High school diploma or equivalent is preferred

Benefits

Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
On-the-job training opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Freight Handler
Work Environment: Warehouse. This role involves heavy physical labor and requires the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Warehouse Manager or Supervisor.
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 Handler Do?

Freight Handlers play a crucial role in the logistics and transportation industry.

They work in warehouses, distribution centers, or shipping docks to manage and organize goods that are shipped and received.

Their primary responsibilities include loading and unloading goods from trucks, trains, ships, or airplanes.

They utilize equipment such as forklifts, hand trucks, and other manual or automated tools to move, stack, and arrange merchandise.

Freight Handlers ensure that the goods are correctly accounted for by checking and verifying inventory against delivery or shipping documents.

They may also be responsible for packing goods securely for transportation, ensuring the safety of fragile items, and preventing damage.

They work closely with warehouse managers and other logistic team members to ensure the accurate and timely delivery of freight.

They may also be tasked with maintaining cleanliness and organization in the work area to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

In some cases, Freight Handlers may also be involved in documenting any shipping damages or discrepancies, as well as assisting in inventory control and management.

Their role requires them to be physically fit due to the heavy lifting involved and have keen attention to detail to accurately handle and track freight.

Freight Handler Qualifications and Skills

A successful freight handler should possess a range of skills and qualifications that ensure the efficient and safe handling of goods, including:

Physical strength and stamina to lift and move heavy items for extended periods
Attention to detail to accurately process freight information, such as weight, charges, and damages
Basic mathematical skills for calculating freight dimensions and other related measurements
Ability to operate heavy machinery such as forklifts and pallet jacks
Excellent time management skills to ensure that goods are dispatched and received in a timely manner
Problem-solving skills to resolve issues that may arise during the handling process
Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively work with team members and communicate with customers or clients
Understanding and adherence to safety procedures to minimize potential hazards
Knowledge of the freight handling process and industry regulations
Ability to work in varying weather conditions as freight handling can sometimes be an outdoor job

Freight Handler Experience Requirements

Entry-level freight handlers typically require no formal experience, but must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Some roles may require a short period of on-the-job training to become familiar with the specific processes and protocols of the company.

More advanced roles may require 1 to 2 years of experience in a warehouse or distribution center, and proficiency in operating forklifts and other warehouse machinery.

Previous experience in shipping, receiving, stocking, or logistics can be beneficial.

Senior freight handler roles generally demand at least 3-5 years of direct experience in freight handling or a related field, along with proven abilities in team coordination, problem-solving, and time management.

Knowledge of warehouse management systems and safety protocols is also usually required.

Those with over 5 years of experience may be considered for supervisory or managerial roles, requiring leadership skills, the ability to manage a team, and extensive knowledge of shipping and receiving procedures.

Freight Handler Education and Training Requirements

Freight Handlers typically require a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

No specific postsecondary education is required for this role, but courses in logistics or supply chain management can be beneficial.

On-the-job training is common for Freight Handlers, where they learn the specifics of the job such as how to load and unload goods, operate machinery and follow safety procedures.

Some employers may require Freight Handlers to have a valid driver’s license, and for some roles, a commercial driver’s license might be needed.

Knowledge of the basic mechanics can be beneficial, especially when operating machinery like forklifts.

Additionally, understanding how to properly package and handle different types of goods can be a valuable skill in this role.

Though not always a requirement, certification from programs such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) can make a candidate more attractive to employers.

This shows a commitment to maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

For those seeking advancement, some companies offer internal training programs to help Freight Handlers progress into supervisory or managerial roles.

Freight Handler Salary Expectations

A Freight Handler earns an average of $32,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may depend on the handler’s experience, the company they work for, and the region in which they are located.

Freight Handler Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Freight Handler need?

Freight Handlers should possess physical stamina and strength as the job often involves heavy lifting.

They should be detail-oriented to manage and keep track of inventory.

Basic math skills are also required for counting and recording freight quantities.

Additionally, safety awareness and the ability to operate machinery like forklifts can be beneficial.

Do Freight Handlers need a degree?

A degree is not typically required for a Freight Handler position.

Most companies offer on-the-job training.

However, a high school diploma or equivalent may be required.

Prior experience in a warehouse or distribution center can be beneficial.

What should you look for in a Freight Handler’s resume?

In a Freight Handler’s resume, experience in handling, loading, and unloading goods is key.

Look for past roles that required physical fitness, ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and experience with warehouse operations.

Certifications for operating machinery like forklifts can be an added advantage.

What qualities make a good Freight Handler?

A good Freight Handler is punctual, reliable, and capable of working independently or as part of a team.

They should have good organizational skills to efficiently manage freight and maintain inventory.

Physical fitness and resilience to work in different weather conditions are also important qualities.

What are the physical demands for a Freight Handler?

The job of a Freight Handler is physically demanding as it involves lifting, moving, and stacking heavy items frequently.

They may also need to operate machinery like forklifts.

The job may require standing, bending, or moving for long periods, and sometimes working in varying weather conditions.

What are the daily duties of a Freight Handler?

Freight Handlers typically start their day by reviewing the list of goods to be moved or loaded for the day.

They then load and unload trucks, move goods around the warehouse, record inventory, and sometimes operate machinery like forklifts.

They also ensure that the workspace is clean and safe and report any damages or discrepancies in the inventory.

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the lid on what it truly means to be a freight handler.

And guess what?

It’s not just about loading and unloading cargo.

It’s about ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of goods, one parcel at a time.

With our go-to freight handler job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to take the next step.

But why halt here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to accurately-crafted job listings or refining your resume to matchless precision.

Remember:

Every single parcel is a vital cog in the logistical wheel.

Let’s ensure that wheel turns efficiently. Together.

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