Shipping Clerk Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global commerce, the role of the shipping clerk has never been more critical.

As goods and products traverse the world, the demand for diligent individuals who can manage, monitor, and expedite these shipments is escalating.

But let’s delve a bit deeper: What’s truly expected from a shipping clerk?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the logistics behind shipping operations,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable shipping clerk job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Shipping Clerk Duties and Responsibilities

Shipping Clerks play a crucial role in the logistics and distribution cycle of a company, managing outgoing shipments and ensuring they reach their destinations in a timely manner.

Their duties and responsibilities often include:

• Checking the details of orders, including the quantity and type of goods
• Preparing shipping documents, like invoices and purchase orders
• Packaging items securely to prevent damage during transit
• Arranging for pickup or delivery of goods, working with various shipping companies
• Tracking shipments and updating customers on the status of their orders
• Managing the inventory of shipping materials and supplies
• Maintaining records of outgoing shipments, including details of goods shipped, shipping methods, and costs
• Verifying the accuracy of orders upon their arrival and sorting them accordingly
• Ensuring adherence to laws, regulations, and safety procedures in shipping processes

 

Shipping Clerk Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Shipping Clerk to manage our outgoing deliveries.

The Shipping Clerk’s responsibilities include verifying and maintaining records on outgoing shipments, preparing items for shipment, and performing other tasks related to shipping and receiving.

Our ideal candidate has experience in a warehouse setting and is comfortable with physical labor.

Familiarity with shipping practices and handling methods is required.

Ultimately, a top-notch Shipping Clerk should be able to ensure that all items are properly packaged and reach their destinations on time.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare shipping documents (like invoices, purchase orders and bills of lading)
• Coordinate and pack the products that need to be shipped
• Track inventory for incoming and outgoing shipments
• Ensure that all orders have been filled correctly and that all goods have been appropriately labelled
• Schedule pickups with transportation companies and ensure goods are ready for dispatch
• Record shipment data for record-keeping purposes
• Inspect shipments to ensure they are not damaged

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Shipping Clerk or similar role
• Good understanding of supply chain procedures
• Hands-on experience with shipping software and databases
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• Ability to lift heavy objects
• High school diploma; additional qualifications will be a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Employee discount

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Shipping Clerk
• Work Environment: Warehouse setting. Physical labor, including lifting heavy packages and standing for long periods, is often required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Shipping Manager or Warehouse Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $28,000 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 Shipping Clerk Do?

Shipping Clerks work in various industries, particularly in warehouses, manufacturing companies, and retail businesses where goods need to be dispatched to different locations.

Their primary role is to manage and coordinate outgoing shipments.

This often includes packing items securely, labeling them correctly, and arranging for their timely dispatch.

Shipping Clerks are also responsible for verifying the content of packages against shipping papers.

They ensure that the right goods are being shipped in the correct quantity to the proper location.

Shipping Clerks often use specific software to track and manage the dispatch and receipt of goods.

They also maintain records of all outgoing shipments, including details of the transport vehicle, the goods being shipped, and their destination.

In addition, Shipping Clerks may also be tasked with inspecting goods for damage and ensuring they meet quality standards before shipment.

They are also often responsible for resolving any issues related to shipment, such as delays or damaged goods.

 

Shipping Clerk Qualifications and Skills

Shipping Clerks require a variety of technical skills, administrative abilities and industry knowledge to efficiently handle shipping procedures, including:

• Strong organizational skills to manage and maintain shipping records and inventories in an orderly manner.
• Excellent attention to detail to ensure correct shipment details, including shipping addresses, routing, and timing.
• Effective communication skills to coordinate with shipping companies, clients and other departments in the organization.
• Customer service skills to handle customer queries about shipping schedules, delays, and to assist in tracking shipments.
• Basic computer skills to use shipping software, tracking systems, and databases for inventory control.
• Knowledge of shipping and packaging procedures, regulations and standards to ensure that goods are shipped in compliance with relevant laws.
• Physical stamina to handle packages, operate shipping machinery and equipment as required.
• Problem-solving abilities to address and resolve shipping-related issues or discrepancies that might occur.

 

Shipping Clerk Experience Requirements

Shipping Clerks typically have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in a logistics or warehousing environment.

This experience can often be obtained through entry-level roles, internships, or part-time roles in inventory management or logistics support.

Additionally, these professionals might have gained practical experience in roles such as Warehouse Associate, Inventory Clerk, or other related roles that require tracking and handling of goods, documentation, and shipping procedures.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their skills and understanding in areas such as organizing shipments, inspecting inventory for accuracy, preparing shipping documents, and coordinating with carriers and vendors.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have some supervisory or managerial experience.

They may have overseen a team of shipping clerks, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in the shipping process, and they may be ready for a managerial or team lead position in the shipping department.

 

Shipping Clerk Education and Training Requirements

Shipping Clerks typically require a high school diploma or GED to enter the field.

Basic knowledge in shipping procedures, documents, and methods are often acquired on the job through entry-level positions.

Previous experience in warehouse or logistics roles can be beneficial, although not always required.

Proficiency in computer skills, especially with inventory management software and databases, is often required.

Familiarity with shipping vendors like FedEx, UPS, and USPS, including their procedures and policies, is usually an essential part of the job.

A certification in logistics or supply chain management can enhance employability, but is not mandatory.

Some employers may provide on-the-job training to familiarize new hires with company-specific procedures and software.

For those wishing to progress in their career, further education in the form of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, or a related field can be advantageous.

 

Shipping Clerk Salary Expectations

A Shipping Clerk earns an average salary of $34,710 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, skills, geographic location, and the specific company they work for.

 

Shipping Clerk Job Description FAQs

What are the key responsibilities of a Shipping Clerk?

A Shipping Clerk’s key responsibilities include preparing and processing orders for shipment, maintaining accurate inventory records, coordinating with carriers for pickups and deliveries, packaging items securely, and ensuring that all shipping documentation is accurate and complete.

 

What skills are required for a Shipping Clerk?

Shipping Clerks require strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask effectively.

They should have good communication skills to interact with team members, suppliers, and customers.

Proficiency in using inventory management software and basic computer applications is also necessary.

 

Do Shipping Clerks need any specific qualifications or certifications?

While a high school diploma or equivalent is generally sufficient for entry-level positions, some employers may prefer candidates with an associate’s degree or relevant certification in logistics or supply chain management.

Previous experience in a similar role can also be advantageous.

 

What makes a good Shipping Clerk?

A good Shipping Clerk is reliable, efficient, and able to work well under pressure.

They should be detail-oriented, ensuring that all orders are packaged correctly and shipped on time.

Problem-solving skills are also important as they may need to find quick solutions for issues such as delayed shipments or damaged goods.

 

Is experience necessary for a Shipping Clerk role?

While it’s not always necessary, having previous experience in shipping, inventory management, or a related field can certainly be beneficial.

This experience can provide a practical understanding of shipping procedures and regulations, as well as the use of relevant software and equipment.

However, many roles also offer on-the-job training for those new to the field.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an exclusive insight into the life and responsibilities of a shipping clerk.

Surprised?

It’s not just about packing and unpacking items.

It’s about orchestrating the smooth journey of goods, one shipment at a time.

With our comprehensive shipping clerk job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to embark on a new career path.

But why stop here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating detailed job postings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each shipment is a piece of a larger logistic puzzle.

Let’s solve that puzzle. Together.

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