Question 1

What does a retail receiving clerk do?

Accepted Answer

A retail receiving clerk manages incoming deliveries, verifies shipments against purchase orders, documents discrepancies and damages, processes vendor returns, and maintains organised receiving areas. They ensure accurate stock intake and proper documentation under the General Retail Industry Award.

Question 2

What award classification applies to retail receiving clerks?

Accepted Answer

Retail receiving clerks typically fall under Level 1-3 of the General Retail Industry Award 2020 (MA000004). Level 1 covers basic receiving duties, Level 2 covers those with inventory system experience and ability to identify discrepancies, and Level 3 covers those with supervisory or specialist responsibilities. See our Retail Award pay rates guide.

Question 3

What is the difference between a receiving clerk and a warehouse worker?

Accepted Answer

A receiving clerk specifically handles incoming deliveries, documentation, verification against purchase orders and vendor communications. A warehouse worker typically focuses on storage, picking and internal inventory movement. Many receiving clerks also perform warehouse duties depending on the operation's size and structure.

Question 4

Do retail receiving clerks need forklift licences?

Accepted Answer

Forklift licences aren't always mandatory but are highly beneficial for receiving roles, especially in larger operations. Requirements depend on the workplace equipment and receiving area layout. Many retailers provide forklift training to receiving staff who demonstrate suitable aptitude.

Question 5

What qualifications do retail receiving clerks need?

Accepted Answer

Retail receiving clerks need attention to detail, basic numeracy skills, physical fitness and organisational ability. While formal qualifications aren't required, Certificate II or III in Warehousing or Supply Chain can be beneficial. Key requirements include computer literacy for inventory systems, accuracy in documentation and reliability.

Question 6

What experience should I look for in a receiving clerk?

Accepted Answer

Look for warehouse, logistics or receiving experience, familiarity with inventory systems, ability to identify discrepancies and strong organisational skills. Previous experience with loading dock operations, vendor communications and physical stock handling is ideal. Transferable skills from retail or manufacturing environments are also valuable.

Question 7

Do receiving clerks need computer skills?

Accepted Answer

Yes, receiving clerks need basic computer literacy to operate inventory management systems, create receiving reports, communicate via email and process documentation electronically. Most retailers use specialized receiving software or integrated systems that require data entry and navigation skills.

Question 8

What ongoing training do receiving clerks need?

Accepted Answer

Receiving clerks need training on inventory systems, safety procedures, product identification, quality standards and vendor return processes. Training typically covers handling procedures for different product types, documentation requirements and communication protocols with suppliers and internal departments. Track training using HR software.

Question 9

Are receiving clerks usually permanent or casual?

Accepted Answer

Receiving clerks are typically permanent full-time or part-time positions given the regular nature of deliveries and need for consistent documentation practices. Some retailers use casual staff during peak periods, but permanent staff ensure better vendor relationship continuity and system knowledge.

Question 10

What hours do receiving clerks work?

Accepted Answer

Receiving clerks typically work early morning shifts to accommodate delivery schedules, often starting at 5am-7am. Hours may extend into afternoons for processing received stock. Some operations require weekend and public holiday coverage depending on delivery schedules and trading hours.

Question 11

What should I include in a receiving clerk employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and award classification, hourly rate or salary, expected working hours including early starts, physical requirements and any equipment licences needed, and leave provisions. Use digital employment contracts for efficiency.

Question 12

Do receiving clerks work alone or in teams?

Accepted Answer

This depends on operation size. Smaller retailers may have one receiving clerk working independently, while larger stores have receiving teams with shift supervisors. Even when working alone, receiving clerks coordinate with delivery drivers, store managers and stock teams throughout their shift.

Question 13

How should I roster retail receiving clerks?

Accepted Answer

Roster receiving clerks to align with delivery schedules, typically early morning shifts. Consider delivery volumes on different days and ensure adequate coverage for peak delivery periods. Use rostering software to coordinate receiving coverage with warehouse and stock processing needs efficiently.

Question 14

What rostering compliance applies to receiving clerks?

Accepted Answer

Receiving clerks are covered by the General Retail Industry Award which sets minimum shift lengths, break entitlements, notice periods for roster changes and penalty rates. Early morning starts may attract penalty rates depending on the specific award provisions. Ensure minimum 3-hour shifts for casuals.

Question 15

How do I manage rostering during busy delivery periods?

Accepted Answer

Plan ahead for increased delivery volumes during peak retail periods by scheduling additional receiving staff, extending shift hours or adding weekend coverage. Consider cross-training store staff to assist with receiving during exceptionally busy periods. Availability management tools help coordinate increased staffing needs.

Question 16

How do receiving clerks request time off?

Accepted Answer

Staff should submit leave requests through your leave management system with reasonable notice, considering critical delivery periods and ensuring adequate receiving coverage. Using rostering software helps track requests, manage approvals and adjust receiving rosters to maintain operational continuity.

Retail receiving clerk job description