Shipping and Receiving Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of commerce, the role of Shipping and Receiving Manager has never been more critical.
As global trade expands, the need for proficient individuals who can oversee, streamline, and secure our logistical operations becomes increasingly significant.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Shipping and Receiving Manager?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker wanting to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager aiming to define the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the inner dynamics of shipping and receiving management,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Shipping and Receiving Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s get started.
Shipping and Receiving Manager Duties and Responsibilities
Shipping and Receiving Managers are primarily responsible for overseeing the incoming and outgoing shipments in a warehouse or logistics setting.
They also oversee the staff and ensure that all operations adhere to policies and regulations.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Coordinating and managing all shipping and receiving operations, including deliveries, logistics, and transportation
- Overseeing the loading and unloading of goods to ensure that they are handled properly
- Inspecting incoming and outgoing shipments to verify the quantity and quality of goods
- Managing inventory and maintaining accurate records of all stock and shipment activities
- Scheduling staff hours and assignments to optimize productivity
- Ensuring adherence to legal regulations and company policies
- Communicating with suppliers, carriers, customers, and staff to resolve any issues or discrepancies
- Implementing safety procedures and maintaining a clean and safe work environment
- Providing training to staff on efficient and safe handling of goods
- Processing and preparing documents, such as work orders, bills of lading, and shipping orders
Shipping and Receiving Manager Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Shipping and Receiving Manager to join our team.
The Shipping and Receiving Manager will oversee the efficient receipt, storage, value-adding servicing and dispatch of our range of goods.
The ideal candidate will ensure that the shipment and distribution of goods happen with ease, efficiency, and satisfaction for our customers.
Responsibilities
- Manage the receipt, handling, and safety of goods.
- Coordinate and control the order cycle and associated information systems.
- Analyze logistical problems and produce new solutions.
- Implement health and safety procedures.
- Liaise and negotiate with suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers.
- Organize staffing, including shift patterns and the number of staff required to meet demand.
- Oversee the planned maintenance of vehicles, machinery, and equipment.
- Develop and improve business performance within the constraints of legislation, fuel costs and rising environmental pressures.
- Manage staff training issues and motivate other members of the team.
- Project future shipping and receiving needs and work with other department heads to create strategies for meeting those needs.
Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree in business management, supply chain management, or a related field.
- Proven experience in shipping and receiving management.
- Strong understanding of warehousing and distribution processes.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and inventory management software.
- Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Strong leadership and customer management abilities.
- Ability to manage time and plan effectively.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Shipping and Receiving Manager
- Work Environment: This role primarily operates in a warehouse environment, and requires regular walking, bending and lifting of items up to 50 pounds.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Operations Director.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
- 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 Shipping and Receiving Manager Do?
Shipping and Receiving Managers typically work for manufacturing companies, retail businesses, or any other organization that requires the movement of goods or materials.
They oversee and coordinate the daily warehousing activities, which include shipping and receiving materials, and maintaining inventory and supplies.
Shipping and Receiving Managers ensure that shipments are sent and received on time, in the right quantities, and without any damage.
They coordinate with carriers, oversee the loading and unloading of goods, and verify shipment contents against invoices or packing lists.
They are also responsible for managing warehouse staff, enforcing safety regulations, and ensuring that the warehouse is organized and clean.
Shipping and Receiving Managers implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and productivity.
They also take care of any customer issues related to shipping and receiving, and collaborate with other departments such as sales, customer service, and purchasing to ensure a smooth operation.
In addition, they are responsible for maintaining accurate records of all incoming and outgoing shipments, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
Shipping and Receiving Manager Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Shipping and Receiving Manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:
- Strong organizational skills to manage and track inventory, ensuring that all items are appropriately accounted for and located correctly
- Time management skills to coordinate the timely arrival and dispatch of goods, maintain shipment schedules, and ensure the efficient operation of the shipping and receiving department
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with staff, other departments, vendors, and carriers, and to provide clear and concise instructions
- Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and address any issues or delays in the shipping and receiving process
- Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and efficiency
- Leadership skills to manage and motivate a team, ensuring productivity and maintaining morale
- Knowledge of shipping and receiving procedures, as well as relevant laws and regulations
- Ability to use various types of shipping software and technology to streamline and automate the shipping and receiving process
- Physical strength and stamina to move heavy items when necessary
Shipping and Receiving Manager Experience Requirements
Shipping and Receiving Managers usually have several years of experience in a warehouse or distribution environment.
Entry-level candidates typically have 1 to 2 years of experience in roles such as Shipping Clerk, Receiving Clerk, Warehouse Associate, or Inventory Specialist.
More experienced candidates may have spent 3 to 5 years in positions like Shipping and Receiving Supervisor or Warehouse Supervisor, where they gain hands-on experience managing personnel and coordinating logistics.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have substantial knowledge of inventory software, shipping and logistics procedures, and warehouse operations.
They may also have experience in roles requiring strategic planning, budgeting, and vendor negotiations.
Such candidates are likely to have strong managerial and leadership skills, making them ideal for a Shipping and Receiving Manager role.
In addition to work experience, these roles often require knowledge of safety regulations and protocols, proficiency in inventory management systems, and strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
Shipping and Receiving Manager Education and Training Requirements
Shipping and Receiving Managers typically have a high school diploma or its equivalent as a minimum requirement.
Although not always required, some employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in logistics, business administration, supply chain management, or a related field.
These programs often provide knowledge on inventory management, distribution, production planning, and international trade, which are essential for this role.
Shipping and Receiving Managers need to have a good understanding of warehousing and distribution operations, as well as knowledge of relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
Some positions may require candidates to have previous work experience in a warehouse or distribution center.
This experience often includes responsibilities such as packaging, labeling, storage, and other areas of shipping and receiving.
Certifications, though not always necessary, can demonstrate a candidate’s competence and commitment to the field.
Certificates such as the Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from the Association for Supply Chain Management can be beneficial.
Continuous learning is important in this role due to changes in logistics technology and regulations.
Therefore, candidates with a willingness to engage in ongoing professional development may be more desirable to employers.
Shipping and Receiving Manager Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Shipping and Receiving Manager is $60,000 (USD) per year.
However, the income can vary considerably based on factors such as years of experience, the size of the company, and the cost of living in the geographical location of the job.
Shipping and Receiving Manager Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Shipping and Receiving Manager need?
Shipping and Receiving Managers need to possess strong organizational and management skills to effectively handle inventory and ensure the smooth flow of goods.
They should also have good interpersonal and communication skills to coordinate with suppliers, staff, and customers.
Problem-solving and decision-making abilities are essential to deal with any issues that may arise in the shipping or receiving process.
Computer skills for inventory management software and knowledge about supply chain procedures are also important.
Do Shipping and Receiving Managers need a degree?
While a degree is not always necessary, many Shipping and Receiving Managers have a bachelor’s degree in business, logistics, or a related field.
Experience in shipping, receiving, or warehouse operations is typically required.
Some positions may also require knowledge of specific industry regulations or standards.
What should you look for in a Shipping and Receiving Manager’s resume?
Look for a history of experience in logistics or warehouse management.
Familiarity with inventory management systems, shipping procedures, and supply chain management are all crucial.
Certifications in logistics or supply chain management can also be beneficial.
Leadership experience is a plus, as this role typically involves overseeing a team.
What qualities make a good Shipping and Receiving Manager?
A good Shipping and Receiving Manager is detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy in order fulfillment and inventory management.
They should be able to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Strong leadership abilities are essential, as they will need to manage a team and promote productivity.
Additionally, problem-solving skills are necessary for quickly addressing any issues that may arise in the shipping and receiving process.
What are the daily duties of a Shipping and Receiving Manager?
On a typical day, a Shipping and Receiving Manager may oversee the receiving of new inventory, ensuring it is accurately logged and stored.
They will manage the preparation and scheduling of shipments, coordinating with carriers as necessary.
They will also handle any issues related to shipping or receiving, such as delayed shipments or damaged goods.
Regular inventory audits, training staff, and ensuring safety regulations are followed are also part of their duties.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve demystified what it truly means to be a Shipping and Receiving Manager.
Surprised?
It’s not just about loading and unloading items.
It’s about orchestrating a seamless flow of goods, one package at a time.
Armed with our comprehensive Shipping and Receiving Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.
But why limit yourself?
Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting precise job listings or perfecting your resume.
Remember:
Every package handled is a part of the larger supply chain.
Let’s streamline that process. Together.
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