What Does a Picker Packer Do?
Find out what a picker packer does, how to get this job, and what it takes to succeed as a picker packer.
Pickers pack goods into boxes, bins or other containers before they are shipped to a customer. They may also unload shipments from trucks or other vehicles as they arrive at the warehouse.
Pickers must be able to quickly identify and retrieve items based on detailed instructions from supervisors or computer systems. They must also have excellent attention to detail so that they can ensure each item is properly packed without damaging it in any way.
Picker Packer Job Duties
Picker packers have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Staying aware of inventory levels across the warehouse to ensure they meet customer demand
- Packaging items in boxes or bags according to specified procedures and standards
- Verifying incoming goods against packing slips, shipping orders, or inventory lists to ensure that shipments have arrived complete and intact
- Using hand tools such as tape measures, screwdrivers, or hammers to move crates around the warehouse
- Keeping track of inventory levels using computer applications or paper records such as inventory sheets or spreadsheets
- Receiving shipments of product from vendors or suppliers and storing them in a warehouse until they can be sold to retail stores or other customers
- Picking orders from shelves or boxes and packing them into boxes for shipping
- Organizing inventory in warehouses to ensure that it is stored in a manner that is efficient and safe for workers
- Maintaining a neat and clean work environment and following safety procedures when handling heavy equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks
Picker Packer Salary & Outlook
The salary of a picker packer can vary depending on their level of experience, the company size and geographic location.
- Median Annual Salary: $31,500 ($15.14/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary: $49,500 ($23.8/hour)
The employment of picker packers is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.
The need to improve productivity and reduce costs will likely result in more automation, which will limit the number of jobs for picker packers. However, some companies may continue to rely on human picker packers to maintain high quality and ensure that products are packed properly.
Related: In-Depth Picker Packer Salary Guide
Picker Packer Job Requirements
There are a few requirements for becoming a picker packer, which may include:
Education: Entry-level picker packers are typically required to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Relevant fields include logistics, supply chain management, business administration, and computer science.
Training & Experience: Most companies will provide on-the-job training for new picker packers. This training will teach the new employee how to properly pack and ship products, how to use the computer system and how to use the equipment. Training may last for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the company and the complexity of the job.
Certifications & Licenses: There are no specific certifications required to become a picker packer, but some companies may require employees to have certain certifications before they are allowed inside the facility.
Picker Packer Skills
Pickers and packers need the following skills in order to be successful:
Packing: Packing is the ability to place items in a box in a way that ensures they don’t move around during transit. Packing is an important skill for pickers and packers because it ensures the items they handle are safe and secure.
Organization: Organization is another important skill for picker packers to have, as it can help them keep track of their work and ensure they complete all of their duties. Being organized can also help you save time by allowing you to find the items you need quickly.
Attention to detail: Attention to detail is a crucial skill for pickers and packers to have because it ensures that they are selecting the correct items and packaging the items correctly. Having attention to detail can also help you save time by ensuring that you are only picking or packing one item at a time.
Dexterity: Dexterity is the ability to use your hands and fingers to perform tasks. Having good dexterity can help you when you’re packing and unpacking boxes, as well as when you’re sorting and stacking inventory.
Communication: Communication is another important skill for picker packers to have, as it can help them work with their coworkers and supervisors. They can use their communication skills to ask questions, receive feedback and learn more about the company’s expectations. Communication can also help them work with customers, as they can explain the products they’re packing and answer any questions customers may have.
Picker Packer Work Environment
Pickers and packers work in warehouses and other storage facilities. They may be required to lift heavy boxes and containers, stand for long periods of time, and work in hot or cold temperatures, depending on the warehouse environment. Some pickers and packers may work nights or weekends, and overtime may be required during busy periods. The job is generally not considered to be stressful, and most workers find it to be physically demanding but not overly so.
Picker Packer Trends
Here are three trends influencing how picker packers work. Picker packers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.
The Growth of e-Commerce
The growth of e-commerce is a trend that is having a major impact on the shipping industry. This is because it is increasing the demand for pickers and packers, who are needed to package and ship products.
As e-commerce grows, businesses will need to find ways to keep up with the increased demand. One way to do this is by hiring pickers and packers who can quickly and efficiently package products.
Automation Will Become More Common
As automation becomes more common in the workplace, picker and packer jobs will become less important. This means that those who want to be successful in this field will need to learn how to work with robots and other automated systems.
In order to stay competitive, picker and packer professionals will need to be able to work with automation and understand how to make the most of it. They will also need to be able to adapt to changes in the workplace and be open to new ideas and technologies.
More Attention to Supply Chain Management
As businesses focus more on supply chain management, they will need professionals who can manage the flow of goods from supplier to customer. This includes picking and packing items, as well as ensuring that they are shipped on time.
Picker and packer professionals can capitalize on this trend by becoming experts in supply chain management. They can then use their skills to help businesses optimize their operations and reduce costs.
How to Become a Picker Packer
There are many different paths you can take when planning your career as a picker packer. You could specialize in a certain type of product, such as electronics or food products. You could also focus on a particular industry, such as retail or manufacturing.
No matter which path you choose, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and best practices in your field. Take advantage of training opportunities offered by your employer, and attend conferences and workshops hosted by industry organizations.
Related: How to Write a Picker Packer Resume
Advancement Prospects
There are many opportunities for advancement for pickers and packers. With experience, pickers and packers can move into lead positions, where they would oversee a team of workers. Some pickers and packers also become trainers, teaching new employees how to properly and efficiently pick and pack orders. In some warehouses, pickers and packers can also become certified forklift operators. With additional training and certification, pickers and packers can also become certified crane operators.
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