How to Become a Freight Handler (Master of Transit Tales!)
If you’ve ever envisioned working in logistics and transporting goods across continents, or wondered what it takes to become a freight handler, you’ve found the right resource.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the SPECIFIC steps you need to embark on your career as a freight handler. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The training that can accelerate your path.
- How to secure a job as a freight handler.
So, whether you’re new to the logistics field or an experienced individual looking to advance your career, stay with us.
We’re about to reveal the roadmap to becoming a freight handler.
Let’s get this journey started!
Steps to Become a Freight Handler
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Freight Handler
Before starting the journey to become a Freight Handler, you should understand what the role entails.
A freight handler is responsible for loading, unloading, preparing, and handling items that are being shipped via trucks, planes, trains, or ships.
They must be able to lift heavy objects and work quickly to meet shipping and receiving deadlines.
Some freight handlers may also be responsible for maintaining records of shipments, inspecting cargo for damage, and ensuring that goods are properly secured for transportation.
A freight handler should be physically fit, able to handle heavy lifting, and have good manual dexterity.
They must also be able to work well in a team and have good communication skills, as they often work with drivers, warehouse staff, and other freight handlers to ensure that goods are loaded and unloaded safely and efficiently.
Understanding the role of a freight handler can help you determine whether this is the right career path for you.
It can also prepare you for the physical and mental demands of the job, and give you a clearer picture of the skills and attributes you will need to succeed in this role.
Step 2: Obtain a High School Diploma or GED
The first formal educational step to becoming a Freight Handler is to complete high school or obtain a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
Although the job of a Freight Handler is largely physical and does not require advanced academic qualifications, having a high school diploma or GED can increase your employment prospects.
During high school, you can focus on subjects like mathematics to help improve your numerical skills, which can be useful for tasks such as weight calculations.
Subjects like English can help improve communication skills, which are crucial for interacting with colleagues and supervisors.
Physical education classes can help improve your fitness level, as this job requires a lot of heavy lifting and physical exertion.
In addition, obtaining a high school diploma or GED shows potential employers that you have a basic level of education and the necessary discipline to complete a course of study.
This can be an advantage when applying for jobs, especially in competitive markets.
It can also pave the way for further training or education that you may want to pursue in the future, such as certifications related to logistics or supply chain management.
Step 3: Develop Physical Fitness
Being a freight handler is a physically demanding job.
It often requires heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, and a lot of moving around.
Therefore, developing a high level of physical fitness is crucial to carry out your tasks efficiently and safely.
You might want to start a regular exercise routine focusing on strength and endurance training.
Lifting weights, doing cardio exercises, and incorporating flexibility and balance workouts can significantly help in preparing your body for the physical tasks involved.
Moreover, maintaining a healthy diet is equally important to fuel your body properly and keep your energy levels high.
It’s also a good idea to learn proper lifting techniques and use equipment safely to avoid injury.
If you’re starting from a lower fitness level, you may want to start slowly and gradually increase your activity level as your fitness improves.
Remember to also give your body ample time to rest and recover.
Remember, being physically fit does not only make your job easier, but it also helps reduce the risk of injury, which is important in this physically demanding role.
Step 4: Gain Basic Knowledge of Warehouse Operations
In order to become an efficient Freight Handler, you need to have a basic understanding of how a warehouse operates.
This involves understanding how goods are received, stored, and distributed in the warehouse.
You should have knowledge of warehouse equipment and safety protocols as well.
Knowing how to use forklifts, pallet jacks, and other tools is crucial in this role.
You should also familiarize yourself with inventory management systems and processes.
This includes understanding how to keep track of inventory, how to perform inventory counts, and how to locate specific items in the warehouse.
If your role involves working with international freight, you may also need to understand customs procedures and regulations.
You can acquire this knowledge through on-the-job training, online courses, or by gaining a certification in warehouse operations.
The more you understand about how a warehouse operates, the better you can perform your role as a Freight Handler.
It’s also essential to understand the importance of time management and accuracy in order to ensure that goods are dispatched and received on time and in the right condition.
Remember, learning doesn’t stop once you get the job – always be open to continuing education and learning on the job to improve your skills and performance.
Step 5: Obtain Necessary Certifications
While not always mandatory, having certain certifications can greatly improve your chances of securing a job and advancing your career as a Freight Handler.
One common certification is the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certification, which ensures you understand the safety regulations and protocols for handling and transporting freight.
This certification can be obtained through a variety of online and in-person courses and can be beneficial in demonstrating your commitment to safety within the workplace.
If you are considering a role that involves operating heavy machinery, such as forklifts, you may need to obtain a forklift operator’s license.
This license can be acquired through a training course where you will learn the essentials of operating and maintaining a forklift, as well as safety guidelines.
Additionally, if you aspire to take on more responsibility or move into a management role in the future, it might be beneficial to obtain certifications like Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM).
These certifications will equip you with knowledge and skills in areas such as supply chain management, logistics, and inventory control, making you more marketable to employers.
Remember, obtaining these certifications requires an investment of time and sometimes money, so be sure to consider your career goals and the job requirements before pursuing them.
Step 6: Acquire Skills in Logistics Software
As a freight handler, becoming skilled in the use of logistics software is crucial.
Logistics software, also known as freight management software, is used to streamline operations by automating tasks and tracking shipments.
It also helps in the scheduling of deliveries and pickups, as well as in the management of inventory.
There are different logistics software platforms available and each has its own unique features.
Some are designed specifically for certain types of businesses, such as trucking or warehousing, while others are more general-purpose.
You can learn how to use these systems through on-the-job training, online tutorials, or formal education programs.
Developing a strong understanding of logistics software can make you more efficient in your work and more attractive to potential employers.
It’s also worth noting that as technology advances, more and more functions of the freight handler role are being automated or assisted by software, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest tools and technologies in the industry.
Furthermore, knowing how to use logistics software also helps you in managing documentation, tracking shipments, and maintaining communication with drivers, clients, and management.
These skills not only boost your productivity but also reduce the chance of errors, which can lead to cost savings for the company.
In summary, acquiring skills in logistics software is a critical step in your career as a freight handler, and the more proficient you are, the more valuable you become in the logistics industry.
Step 7: Start with Entry-Level Positions
Starting as a freight handler often does not require extensive prior experience, making it a suitable entry-level position for those new to the logistics and supply chain industry.
In this role, you will learn the basic functions of a warehouse, including how to handle freight safely and efficiently, and how to work within a team in a fast-paced environment.
As an entry-level freight handler, your duties typically include loading and unloading goods, sorting and managing inventory, and maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the warehouse.
You may also be required to operate machinery like forklifts, so obtaining any necessary certifications can be beneficial.
This hands-on experience is crucial in understanding the inner workings of a freight company and can be a stepping stone to more advanced roles.
As you gain experience, you may have the opportunity to advance to supervisor or management roles within the warehouse or to transition into other areas of the company, such as logistics planning or operations management.
Remember to always be open to learning and improving your skills, as this will make you more versatile and valuable within the company.
Take advantage of any on-the-job training or professional development opportunities offered by your employer to further your career.
Step 8: Learn Safety Procedures
As a Freight Handler, one of the essential aspects of your job is ensuring the safety of yourself, your co-workers, and the goods you handle.
A key step in your progression is learning and fully understanding the safety procedures associated with freight handling.
Many companies will provide specific training on safety procedures, which could include the correct handling of heavy or hazardous goods, using machinery like forklifts or pallet jacks, and understanding warehouse safety protocols such as fire safety and emergency evacuation procedures.
This step often involves theoretical learning, like studying manuals and guidelines, and practical exercises, like hands-on training or drills.
Remember, safety procedures are not just about memorization but about application, so practice what you learn in your daily work routines.
In addition to company-provided training, there are many safety certification programs available that can further enhance your knowledge and skills.
This certification can make you more attractive to potential employers and demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
Keeping up-to-date with safety procedures and regulations is also important as these can change over time.
Regular refresher courses and staying informed about industry standards can help ensure that your knowledge remains current.
Remember, as a Freight Handler, your role is not only about moving goods from one place to another; it’s also about doing so safely and efficiently.
Understanding and implementing safety procedures is therefore critical to your success in this role.
Step 9: Strengthen Communication and Teamwork Skills
Being a Freight Handler involves constantly working with a team and coordinating with various people to ensure the smooth operation of the freight handling process.
Therefore, strong communication and teamwork skills are critical.
You may want to take communication and teamwork building courses or workshops, which can be found both online and in-person.
These classes can help you develop the ability to effectively relay information, listen actively, solve problems collaboratively, and work efficiently as part of a team.
Also, gaining practical experience through volunteer work or part-time jobs that require teamwork can be beneficial.
This will allow you to apply and practice these skills in real-world scenarios.
Remember, good communication can help prevent misunderstandings that could result in errors or delays in the freight handling process.
Similarly, good teamwork ensures that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively, contributing to the overall success of the operations.
Continually working to improve these skills can enhance your performance as a Freight Handler and increase your opportunities for advancement within the industry.
Step 10: Aim for Career Advancement Opportunities
As a freight handler, there are numerous opportunities for career advancement.
With some years of experience and proving your reliability and efficiency, you can aim to move into supervisory or managerial positions.
This often involves overseeing other freight handlers, coordinating loading and unloading operations, and ensuring safety and adherence to regulations.
To prepare for these roles, you may want to take courses in management, logistics, or supply chain operations.
Knowledge in these areas can demonstrate your readiness to take on more responsibility and can set you apart from other candidates.
Also, consider earning relevant certifications such as Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) and Certified Logistics Technician (CLT), which can provide additional credentials and make you more attractive to potential employers.
Remember to actively seek feedback, continually improve your skills, and show initiative.
By demonstrating your commitment to your role, your employers will notice your potential for leadership, which can open up opportunities for advancement.
Always stay updated with the latest industry practices and trends, as the freight handling industry can be greatly affected by changes in technology, regulations, and economic conditions.
This will not only make you better at your job but also prepare you for potential managerial roles in the future.
Freight Handler Roles and Responsibilities
Freight Handlers ensure that goods are loaded and unloaded in a safe, efficient, and timely manner.
They interact with a variety of people and equipment in the logistics chain, ensuring goods reach their destination in the same condition as they were dispatched.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Load and Unload Cargo
- Load and unload goods from transportation vehicles such as trucks, ships, and airplanes.
- Utilize equipment like forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks to move freight.
- Ensure the safety and security of cargo during loading, unloading, and transportation.
Freight Inspection
- Inspect freight for damage, tampering, or any discrepancies.
- Verify freight against inventory lists to ensure correct quantities and items are shipped and received.
Freight Sorting
- Sort freight according to destination, size, type, or delivery route.
- Label freight correctly for identification and sorting purposes.
Documentation
- Record incoming and outgoing freight information accurately.
- Maintain accurate inventory records, and prepare reports as necessary.
Safety Compliance
- Follow safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment and follow company safety policies.
Communication
- Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and drivers.
- Report any issues or discrepancies to supervisors promptly.
Equipment Maintenance
- Perform basic maintenance on handling equipment.
- Report any equipment malfunction to supervisors.
Physical Fitness
- Lift and move heavy items and operate manual and mechanical equipment.
- Work in varying weather conditions and at different heights.
Time Management
- Manage time efficiently to meet freight handling deadlines.
- Coordinate with team members to ensure smooth operations.
Continuous Learning
- Stay updated about new freight handling techniques and equipment.
- Participate in training programs to improve skills and knowledge.
What Does a Freight Handler Do?
Freight Handlers are vital to the field of logistics and work primarily for shipping, transportation, and warehousing companies.
Their main responsibility is to load, unload and move freight, which can range from packages to vehicles, between different modes of transportation or within warehouses.
They use equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyor belts to move heavy freight around.
Freight Handlers also ensure the safety and proper handling of goods to prevent damage or loss.
They may be tasked with inspecting and verifying incoming and outgoing freight against shipping documents to make sure that all items are accounted for.
Often, they are responsible for the organization and placement of freight within a warehouse, ensuring that all items are stored in the appropriate locations for easy retrieval.
They also perform necessary administrative tasks, such as recording the movement of goods and inventory control, to maintain accurate records.
In some cases, Freight Handlers might also be involved in packing items securely for transport, wrapping items, and labeling shipments.
They need to follow all safety regulations and standards to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
Essential Freight Handler Skills
- Physical Fitness: Freight handling is a physically demanding role. Workers must have the strength and endurance to handle heavy packages, operate freight equipment, and stand for long periods.
- Coordination: The ability to coordinate body movements is vital for safely loading and unloading cargo. Freight handlers must have good hand-eye coordination and balancing skills.
- Attention to Detail: Freight handlers must ensure that all packages are handled correctly. They need to check labels, track shipments, and ensure that goods are not damaged during the handling process.
- Safety Awareness: Understanding safety regulations and procedures is crucial in this role. Freight handlers must operate equipment safely, adhere to safety guidelines, and maintain a clean and hazard-free work environment.
- Teamwork: Freight handlers often work as a team. They must be able to communicate effectively, assist team members, and work towards achieving collective goals.
- Time Management: In a fast-paced environment, freight handlers must work efficiently to ensure that all packages are processed in a timely manner. They should be able to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively.
- Equipment Operation: Freight handlers need to operate various types of equipment, such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks. They should be comfortable with these tools and maintain them properly.
- Problem-solving: Freight handlers may encounter problems such as damaged goods or logistical issues. They need to be able to identify and solve these problems quickly and effectively.
- Mathematical Skills: Freight handlers may need to calculate weights, dimensions, and shipping costs. Basic math skills can be beneficial in this role.
- Documentation: Proper handling of freight documentation is crucial. Freight handlers must be able to accurately record shipping information, track cargo, and maintain records.
- Customer Service: Freight handlers often interact with customers or clients. They should have good communication skills, be polite, and be able to handle customer complaints or concerns professionally.
Freight Handler Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Entry-Level Freight Handler
Your journey begins as an entry-level Freight Handler.
At this stage, you’ll learn the ropes of the industry, focusing on loading, unloading, and moving freight in a safe and efficient manner.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Physical Fitness: Maintain good physical health and strength as the job involves handling heavy packages.
- Safety Protocols: Understand and follow all safety guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Teamwork: Work well with others as you’ll often be part of a team.
The Ascent: Experienced Freight Handler
With experience and a proven track record, you’ll progress to the role of an Experienced Freight Handler.
Your responsibilities will increase and you’ll be expected to handle larger freight volumes and supervise new hires.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Time Management: Improve your ability to complete tasks within strict deadlines.
- Leadership: Begin to develop leadership skills, as you’ll be guiding less experienced colleagues.
- Operational Knowledge: Develop a broader understanding of the warehouse operations and supply chain.
Reaching New Heights: Freight Handler Supervisor
The next step in your career is to become a Freight Handler Supervisor.
You’ll oversee operations, manage a team of freight handlers, and ensure the efficiency and safety of the warehouse.
To excel as a Freight Handler Supervisor:
- People Management: Develop excellent people management skills to lead and motivate your team.
- Problem-Solving: Enhance your problem-solving abilities to address any operational issues that arise.
- Communication: Improve your communication skills to effectively liaise with other teams and higher management.
Beyond the Horizon: Warehouse Manager
Moving forward, you may choose to become a Warehouse Manager.
In this role, you’ll oversee all warehouse operations, manage larger teams, and make strategic decisions to increase efficiency.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Operational Strategy: Learn to develop and implement strategies to optimize warehouse operations.
- Financial Management: Gain knowledge about budgeting and cost management.
- Logistics: Understand the broader logistics and supply chain to make informed decisions.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Warehouse Operations
At the pinnacle of your career, you may aspire to become the Director of Warehouse Operations.
Here, you’ll be responsible for the overall strategy and success of the warehouse operations across multiple locations.
- Strategic Leadership: Develop the ability to guide your organization’s warehouse operations strategy.
- Business Acumen: Develop a deep understanding of the business to make impactful decisions.
- Continuous Improvement: Always strive for improvements in processes, efficiency, and safety.
Freight Handler Salary
Entry-Level Freight Handler
- Median Salary: $25,000 – $35,000 per year
- Entry-level freight handlers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Their primary responsibilities include loading and unloading goods from trucks, ensuring that freight is safely secured, and following safety protocols.
Mid-Level Freight Handler
- Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
- Mid-level freight handlers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on additional responsibilities such as operating heavy machinery, overseeing the loading/unloading process, and training new hires.
Senior Freight Handler
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $55,000 per year
- Senior freight handlers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for ensuring the efficient operation of the freight handling process. They may be responsible for managing a team of handlers, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and coordinating with logistics personnel.
Freight Handler Supervisor / Manager
- Median Salary: $55,000 – $70,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve supervising a team of freight handlers, coordinating with logistics and supply chain managers, ensuring safety standards are met, and streamlining the freight handling process.
Logistics Manager / Director of Warehouse Operations
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $120,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience in logistics and warehouse operations. They are responsible for overseeing all freight handling operations, setting strategic goals, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.
Freight Handler Work Environment
Freight Handlers typically work in warehouses, dockyards, railway stations, and airports, facilitating the moving of goods from one place to another.
These professionals usually work in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as the transportation of goods is a continuous process that doesn’t adhere to traditional business hours.
Freight handlers often engage in heavy physical work, involving lifting and moving large or heavy packages.
They also work with various types of equipment, such as forklifts and conveyor belts.
The work environment can be fast-paced and stressful, especially during peak shipping times.
Safety is paramount in this profession, and freight handlers are required to adhere to strict safety regulations to prevent accidents and injuries.
Some freight handlers may work for large corporations or shipping companies, while others might be employed by smaller, local businesses.
After gaining experience, they may have opportunities to advance to supervisory roles or even own their own freight handling company.
FAQs About Becoming a Freight Handler
What is needed to become a freight handler?
To become a freight handler, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.
Physical stamina and strength are key as the job often involves heavy lifting and long hours of standing or moving.
Basic math skills for counting inventory and understanding of safety procedures are also important.
While formal education beyond high school is not usually required, previous experience in a warehouse or with heavy machinery such as forklifts can be beneficial.
Some companies provide on-the-job training.
How long does it take to be a freight handler?
The time it takes to become a freight handler can vary depending on your previous experience and the specifics of the job.
If you are new to the field, most companies provide on-the-job training, which typically lasts a few weeks to a few months.
If you have previous experience in a related field or have already received training, you might be able to start work immediately.
Can I be a freight handler without a high school diploma?
Most companies require a high school diploma or equivalent to work as a freight handler.
However, some companies may prioritize work experience or on-the-job skills over formal education.
It’s best to check the specific requirements for each job posting.
Is freight handling a physically demanding job?
Yes, freight handling can be a physically demanding job.
It often involves long hours of standing, bending, and lifting heavy items.
Therefore, physical stamina and good health are important for this role.
Companies typically enforce strict safety regulations and procedures to minimize the risk of injury.
What are the prospects for freight handlers in the next decade?
The prospects for freight handlers are expected to remain steady in the next decade.
As long as goods are being manufactured, distributed, and sold, there will be a need for freight handlers.
However, automation and improvements in technology could affect the demand for this role.
Those willing to adapt and learn to operate new technologies will likely have the best job prospects.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Setting off on the path to become a freight handler is no easy task, but the rewards are undeniably satisfying.
Equipped with the right skills, training, and determination, you’re on the right track to making a substantial impact in the logistics industry.
Remember, the journey may be tough, but the opportunities are endless. Your contributions could lead to the next big breakthrough that revolutionizes how goods are transported, stored, and delivered.
So, take that initial leap. Delve into further training. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop learning.
Because the world is waiting for the efficiency you can bring.
And if you’re seeking personalized advice on starting or advancing your career in freight handling, make sure to explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path.
Risking It All: Top 10 Jobs Where Every Day Could Be Your Last
Market Movers: The Careers Shaping the Future of Employment
Unusually Employed: The Most Bizarre Jobs in the World
