What Does a Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker Do?

Saia LTL Freight is a leading provider of regional and interregional less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation services. They offer a wide range of services, including expedited, time-definite, and door-to-door delivery.

A dock worker at Saia LTL Freight is responsible for loading and unloading freight from trucks and containers. They must be able to safely and efficiently move freight of all sizes and weights, and must be able to use a variety of tools and equipment to do so. Dock workers must also be able to accurately document and track freight, and must be able to work in a fast-paced environment.

Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker Job Duties

A Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Unload and load freight from trailers using a forklift, pallet jack, hand truck or by hand
• Sort freight for delivery and pick up according to established procedures
• Secure freight inside trailers using appropriate tools and supplies
• Count and record the number of units of freight being loaded and unloaded
• Operate a forklift in a safe manner while loading and unloading freight
• Maintain accurate records of all shipments received and delivered
• Ensure that all paperwork is completed accurately and on time
• Inspect freight for damage and report any discrepancies to supervisor
• Assist with other duties as assigned, such as cleaning and maintaining dock area
• Follow safety guidelines and regulations at all times
• Communicate effectively with customers, co-workers, and supervisors
• Adhere to company policies and procedures

Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker Salary

The salary for a dock worker at Saia LTL Freight is determined by a variety of factors, such as the worker’s experience, the number of hours worked, and the type of work performed. Additionally, the location of the job and the current market rate for similar positions in the area can also influence the salary. Saia LTL Freight takes all of these factors into consideration when determining the salary for dock workers.

• Median Annual Salary: $40,822 ($19.63/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $46,350 ($22.28/hour)

Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker Job Requirements

To be hired as a dock worker at Saia LTL Freight, applicants must have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record. They must also be able to lift up to 75 pounds and be able to stand for long periods of time. Previous experience in a warehouse or dock environment is preferred, but not required. Applicants must also be able to pass a background check and drug test. Saia LTL Freight also requires that applicants have a high school diploma or GED. Additionally, applicants must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and be able to work well with others.

Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker Skills

Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker employees need the following skills in order to be successful:

Pallet Jack Operation: Pallet jacks are a common tool used in the shipping and receiving industry. They are a type of forklift that can lift and move pallets of goods. Saia LTL freight dock workers should be familiar with the proper operation of pallet jacks to ensure the safety of themselves and others around them.

Customer Service: Customer service skills can help you interact with customers and clients in a friendly and helpful manner. You may use these skills to answer questions, provide information and complete transactions. Customer service skills can also help you develop positive relationships with customers and clients, which can help you build trust and encourage repeat business.

MS Office: As a shipping and receiving worker, you may be required to use Microsoft Office programs to complete paperwork, enter data and create documents. Familiarity with these programs can help you complete your job duties more efficiently.

Communication Skills: Communication skills are essential for working in a team environment. You may be required to communicate with other team members to ensure that your work is completed accurately and on time. You may also be required to communicate with customers to answer questions and provide information about your company’s services.

Forklift Operation: A person working in a freight dock might be required to operate a forklift to move freight from one location to another. Having experience operating a forklift can help you be more efficient in your job.

Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker Work Environment

Saia LTL Freight Dock Workers typically work in a warehouse environment, loading and unloading freight from trucks and containers. They may also be responsible for sorting and organizing freight, as well as preparing it for shipment. The job requires physical strength and stamina, as well as the ability to lift and move heavy objects. Dock workers typically work a 40-hour week, but may be required to work overtime during peak periods. The job can be stressful, as dock workers must meet tight deadlines and work quickly and efficiently. The work environment can also be noisy and dusty, and dock workers may be exposed to hazardous materials.

Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker Trends

Here are three trends influencing how Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker employees work.

Automated Inventory Management Systems

Automated inventory management systems are becoming increasingly popular in the logistics industry. These systems use sensors, RFID tags, and other technologies to track goods as they move through a warehouse or distribution center. This technology helps dock workers quickly locate items, reduce errors, and improve efficiency.

The automated system also allows for real-time tracking of shipments, which can help Saia LTL Freight Dock Workers better manage their workloads and ensure that orders are delivered on time. Automated inventory management systems also provide visibility into stock levels, allowing dock workers to anticipate customer needs and plan accordingly.

Faster, More Efficient Dock Equipment

As the demand for faster, more efficient dock operations increases, Saia LTL Freight Dock Workers are turning to new technologies and equipment to help them meet these demands. Automated loading systems, such as automated palletizers and conveyors, can reduce labor costs while increasing efficiency. Additionally, RFID tags and scanners can be used to track shipments in real-time, allowing workers to quickly locate and load items onto trucks.

The use of this technology is becoming increasingly important for Saia LTL Freight Dock Workers, as it allows them to work smarter and faster than ever before. By utilizing these tools, they can ensure that their customers receive their orders on time and with minimal errors. This trend will continue to grow in importance as companies strive to stay competitive in an ever-changing market.

Smaller Forklifts with Increased Maneuverability

As the demand for smaller, more maneuverable forklifts increases, Saia LTL Freight Dock Workers are turning to these new models. Smaller forklifts offer increased agility and flexibility in tight spaces, allowing dock workers to move freight quickly and efficiently. Additionally, they require less fuel than traditional models, making them a cost-effective option.

The use of smaller forklifts is also beneficial from a safety standpoint. With their improved maneuverability, dock workers can easily navigate around obstacles and reduce the risk of accidents. As such, it’s important for Saia LTL Freight Dock Workers to understand how to operate these machines properly and safely.

Advancement Prospects

Dock workers may be able to advance their career by taking on additional responsibilities. This could include becoming a lead dock worker, a dock supervisor, or a dock manager. Lead dock workers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the dock, including assigning tasks to other dock workers, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. Dock supervisors are responsible for managing the dock workers, ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and that the dock is running efficiently. Dock managers are responsible for overseeing the entire dock operation, including hiring and training dock workers, managing budgets, and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed.

Interview Questions

Here are five common Saia LTL Freight Dock Worker interview questions and answers.

1. Tell me about a time where you had to make decisions about a process without consulting your direct manager.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you make decisions and solve problems on your own. Use examples from your experience that show you’re capable of making independent decisions and solving problems without supervision.

Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for managing a large inventory system where we tracked shipments by destination, carrier and shipment type. One day, I noticed some discrepancies in our records when comparing them to customer orders. After looking into it further, I realized there were missing shipments in our database. I immediately informed my manager about the issue so they could work with other departments to find out what happened. They discovered that one of our drivers had been falsifying his paperwork, which led to him being fired.”

2. If hired, what would be your approach to designing software for an assembly line?

This question is an opportunity to show your technical skills and how you would apply them in a workplace setting. If you have experience with software design, explain the process you would use to create a program for an assembly line. If you don’t have experience with designing software, you can still answer this question by describing what features you would look for in a program that could help you work more efficiently on an assembly line.

Example: “I’ve worked as a warehouse worker for several years now, so I understand the importance of having software that helps me do my job well. In my last position, we used a program called Warehouse Wizard that helped us track inventory levels and shipping orders. The program was helpful because it allowed us to see all of our tasks at once and prioritize which ones needed to be completed first.

If hired, I would want to find a similar program that allows employees to view their tasks and check off each one as they complete it.”

3. Provide an example of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your customer service skills. They want to know that you’re willing to go above and beyond for customers, even if it’s not part of your job description.

Example: “I once had a customer who was having trouble with their shipment. The driver hadn’t arrived yet, so I called our local office to see if they could find out what happened. It turned out that the driver got into an accident on his way to deliver the package. He wasn’t hurt, but he couldn’t make it to the delivery location. So, I offered to drive the package myself to ensure that my customer received it as soon as possible.”

4. Do you feel more comfortable in a fast-paced or a slow-paced work environment?

Employers ask this question to determine if you are a good fit for their company. They want employees who can adapt to the environment and perform well in both situations. In your answer, explain which type of work environment you prefer and why. Explain that you also understand how important it is to be flexible and adaptable.

Example: “I feel more comfortable in a fast-paced work environment because I am used to working under pressure. However, I know that sometimes things move slower than expected, so I try my best to remain calm and focused. I have learned that remaining flexible and adapting to different environments helps me succeed.”

5. Are you prepared to work in extreme weather conditions?

Employers may ask this question to make sure you’re physically prepared for the work environment at their company. They want employees who can perform well in all weather conditions, so they might look for candidates who have experience working outdoors in extreme temperatures or inclement weather. If you haven’t worked in these conditions before, consider how you would prepare yourself for them.

Example: “I’ve worked in a warehouse setting before and understand that it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather. I always wear layers when it’s cold outside so I can adjust my clothing as needed. When it’s hot out, I bring plenty of water with me to stay hydrated throughout the day. I’m also used to driving in bad weather, so I feel confident driving to work even if there are snowstorms or other inclement weather.”