Shipping Clerk

Last Updated:
November 10, 2023

Job Description Overview

A Shipping Clerk job description in the Transportation industry involves duties such as preparing shipping documents, coordinating with carriers, and managing inventory levels. Shipping clerks fill out bills of lading, invoices, and other records required for the shipment of goods. They also compare prices and carrier services to obtain the best shipping rates. Shipping clerks need to communicate effectively with shippers, carriers, and their internal team to ensure the timely and accurate delivery of goods. They are responsible for verifying shipment content, ensuring that packages are labeled correctly, and maintaining accurate records. Additionally, they participate in the cycle count of inventory, identify discrepancies, and ensure that inventory levels are accurate. A successful candidate for a Shipping Clerk job in the Transportation industry should be detail-oriented, organized, and possess excellent communication skills.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Prepare and process shipment documentation, including bills of lading and shipping labels
  • Ensure accuracy of shipment details, such as weight, quantity, and destination
  • Coordinate with other departments and carriers to schedule and track shipments
  • Inspect and verify incoming and outgoing shipments for damages and discrepancies
  • Operate shipping equipment, such as pallet jacks and forklifts, to load and unload materials
  • Organize and maintain inventory of shipped and received products
  • Communicate with customers regarding shipment status and delivery schedules
  • Handle and resolve any problems or issues related to shipping and receiving
  • Adhere to safety regulations and company policies and procedures
  • Work in a team environment and contribute to a positive and productive workplace culture.

Experience and Education Requirements

To be a Shipping Clerk in the Transportation industry, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent education. Employers may also prefer some experience working in a warehouse or transportation setting, but this isn't always necessary. You should be comfortable using a computer and basic software like Microsoft Office. Being able to lift packages weighing up to 50 pounds is often a requirement too, as well as having reliable transportation to and from work. Good communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills can help you succeed in this role too. Overall, being dependable, detail-oriented, and able to work independently are important qualities for someone in this position.

Salary Range

Shipping Clerk salary range varies based on experience, education level, and location. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Shipping Clerk in the United States is $32,233 per year. Payscale reports a similar figure, with a range of $24,648 to $47,282 per year. Entry-level shipping clerks start at $24,000 per year, while those with more experience can earn up to $38,000 per year.

In Canada, the average salary for a Shipping Clerk is CAD 34,154 per year, according to Neuvoo. In the United Kingdom, the annual salary for a Shipping Clerk ranges from £16,000 to £25,000, according to Totaljobs.

Sources: 

  • Glassdoor: https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/shipping-clerk-salary-SRCH_KO0,14.htm
  • Payscale: https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=ShippingClerk/HourlyRate
  • Neuvoo: https://neuvoo.ca/salary/?job=shipping+clerk
  • Totaljobs: https://www.totaljobs.com/job/shipping-clerk/solid-recruitment-solutions-job88767772

Career Outlook

A shipping clerk is a person who is responsible for the documentation and organization of cargo transportation in the transportation industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for shipping clerks will remain steady with a 5% increase in employment growth from 2019-2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. The demand for goods and services will continue to maintain the need for transportation of goods and products, which will increase the employment opportunities for shipping clerks. The shipping industry is constantly evolving, and shipping clerks are required to stay updated with the latest technology and software applications to be efficient in their roles. Therefore, the job prospects for shipping clerks seem stable as the transportation industry continues to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What does a Shipping Clerk do in the Transportation industry?

A: A Shipping Clerk in the Transportation industry is responsible for preparing and organizing shipment orders, overseeing the loading and unloading of trucks, and accurately maintaining shipping records.

Q: What kind of skills do I need to become a Shipping Clerk?

A: Successful Shipping Clerks possess good organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a fast-paced environment. Basic computer skills and experience using inventory software are also helpful.

Q: What kind of training do I need to become a Shipping Clerk?

A: Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may provide on-the-job training. However, completion of vocational training or certification in logistics, transportation, or related field may increase job opportunities.

Q: What is the average salary of a Shipping Clerk?

A: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a Shipping and Receiving Clerk in the United States is $34,970 per year or $16.81 per hour.

Q: What are the opportunities for career advancement as a Shipping Clerk?

A: A Shipping Clerk can advance to supervisory positions, such as Shipping Supervisor or Warehouse Manager, with additional experience and training. Some may also choose to pursue a career in logistics or supply chain management.


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