Shipping and receiving clerk job description

Shipping and receiving clerks need strong attention to detail, numeracy skills, computer literacy and physical fitness. While formal qualifications aren’t always required, Certificate II or III in Warehousing or Supply Chain Operations is beneficial. Key requirements include organisational skills, accuracy in documentation and ability to work in fast-paced freight environments.

Look for warehouse, logistics or freight forwarding experience, familiarity with inventory management systems, understanding of shipping documentation and strong communication skills for carrier coordination. Previous experience with dispatch operations, customs documentation or freight software is valuable. Transferable skills from retail receiving or manufacturing logistics are also relevant.

Yes, shipping and receiving clerks should be comfortable with inventory management systems, warehouse management software (WMS), carrier tracking systems and Microsoft Office applications. Many operations use specialised freight management software that requires data entry, reporting and electronic documentation skills. Training on specific systems is typically provided.

Clerks need regular training on safety procedures, new freight software, dangerous goods handling, customs requirements and carrier-specific systems. Training typically covers manual handling, workplace health and safety, documentation compliance, quality control procedures and efficient loading/unloading practices.

Shipping and receiving positions are typically permanent full-time or part-time roles given the need for consistent documentation practices and carrier relationship management. Some operations use casual staff during peak periods like holiday seasons or promotional events, but permanent staff ensure better continuity and system knowledge.

Shipping and receiving clerks often work early morning shifts to accommodate freight schedules and carrier pickup times, typically starting at 5am-7am. Hours may extend into afternoons and evenings depending on operational requirements. Some distribution centres and logistics facilities operate 24/7 requiring shift work including nights and weekends.

Key elements include: position title and award classification, hourly rate or salary, expected working hours including early starts or shift work, physical requirements and safety responsibilities, any required licences (forklift, dangerous goods), training provided, and leave provisions. Use digital employment contracts for efficiency.

Yes, under the Storage Services and Wholesale Award, shipping and receiving clerks receive penalty rates for work outside standard hours including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Shift allowances may also apply. Ensure your payroll correctly calculates these entitlements.

Roster based on freight schedules, carrier pickup and delivery times, and shipment volumes. Consider early morning coverage for receiving and afternoon coverage for dispatch coordination. Use rostering software to balance coverage, staff preferences, carrier schedules and award compliance efficiently.

Shipping and receiving clerks are covered by the Storage Services and Wholesale Award which sets minimum shift lengths, break entitlements, notice periods for roster changes and penalty rates. Ensure rosters provide adequate notice and minimum shift lengths. Part-time employees need guaranteed minimum hours.

Plan ahead for peak periods by gathering staff availability early, engaging additional casual staff, and coordinating with carriers on shipping schedules. Consider offering incentives for availability during high-volume periods. Availability management tools help coordinate increased staffing needs during busy seasons.

Staff should submit leave requests through your leave management system with reasonable notice, considering business needs including peak shipping periods and critical freight deadlines. Using rostering software helps track requests, manage approvals and adjust rosters to maintain operational continuity.