Package Handler

Last Updated:
January 20, 2024

Job Description Overview

As a Package Handler in the transportation industry, your job is to ensure that packages and parcels are sorted, processed, and shipped to their intended destination. You will be responsible for loading and unloading materials onto and off of trucks, as well as scanning and tracking inventory. This role requires manual labor and may involve heavy lifting, so physical strength and stamina are important.

You will also need excellent attention to detail to ensure that packages are properly marked and addressed, as well as good communication skills to work effectively as part of a team. Some Package Handlers may also be responsible for driving or operating machinery, so a valid driver's license or relevant certification may be required.

Overall, a Package Handler job description emphasizes a fast-paced, physically demanding role that is essential to keeping goods moving efficiently within the transportation industry.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Load and unload packages onto and off of delivery trucks
  • Package items correctly to ensure safe transportation
  • Sort packages based on destination and delivery time
  • Operate machinery such as conveyor belts and hand trucks
  • Comply with company safety standards and procedures
  • Follow instructions from supervisors and managers
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment
  • Use scanning technology to track and locate packages
  • Meet productivity and accuracy goals
  • Handle packages of various sizes and weights, sometimes up to 70 pounds

Experience and Education Requirements

To get a job as a Package Handler in the Transportation industry, you usually don't need a lot of education. Typically, you just need a high school diploma or equivalent. But what's more important is having some experience in a similar role. This could mean having worked in a warehouse or been a delivery driver. You also need to be able to lift heavy packages up to 70 pounds, and have good hand-eye coordination to sort and move packages quickly. Sometimes, it helps to have good communication and customer service skills because you may need to interact with customers when delivering packages. Overall, if you're reliable, hardworking, and have some related experience or skills, you could be a great fit for a Package Handler position.

Salary Range

Package Handler salary range varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and company size. In the United States, the median salary for a Package Handler is $29,052 per year, with a range of $21,000 to $40,000 per year. However, this can vary significantly based on job location and employer. For example, FedEx pay Package Handlers $14/hour in Atlanta but $19/hour in New York City. Similarly, UPS pays their Package Handlers $13 to $18/hour across the US. In Canada, the average salary for Package Handlers is C$14.15/hour. In Europe, the hourly wage for Package Handlers ranges from €8 to €17 in Germany and €9 to €12 in the UK. 

Sources: 

  1. Glassdoor: https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/package-handler-salary-SRCH_KO0,15.htm 
  2. PayScale: https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=PackageHandler/HourlyRate 
  3. Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/salaries/package-handler-Salaries

Career Outlook

The career outlook for Package Handlers in the Transportation industry is steady, with a projected growth of 3% over the next five years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As eCommerce continues to rise, there will certainly be a demand for package delivery workers. Companies like Amazon and FedEx are always on the lookout for efficient Package Handlers who can handle a high volume of packages with a quick turnaround time. However, competition may be tough, with the job requiring little formal education or training. But, with the right work ethic and attitude, there's plenty of room for advancement as well as opportunities to learn new skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What does a Package Handler do in the Transportation industry?

A: A Package Handler is responsible for loading and unloading packages from delivery trucks and sorting them onto belts or carts for distribution.

Q: Do I need prior experience to become a Package Handler?

A: No prior experience is necessary for the job of a Package Handler, although physical fitness and the ability to lift heavy packages is important.

Q: What kind of environment should I expect to work in as a Package Handler?

A: You can expect to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment that may involve working outdoors in different weather conditions.

Q: What is the typical work schedule for a Package Handler?

A: The schedule for a Package Handler may vary, but typically involves working early morning, afternoon, or evening shifts, often on weekends and holidays.

Q: Will I be required to work overtime as a Package Handler?

A: Yes, Package Handlers may be required to work overtime, particularly during the busy holiday season, in order to meet customer demands and ensure timely package delivery.


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