Shipping, Receiving and Traffic Clerks
| Description |
OES Code: 58028 |
Verify and keep records on incoming and outgoing shipments. Prepare items for shipment. Duties include assembling, addressing, stamping, and shipping merchandise or material; receiving, unpacking, verifying, and recording incoming merchandise or material; and arranging for the transportation of products. Exclude Laborers, Stock Clerks, and workers whose primary duties involve weighing and checking.
Wages, California
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$7.58 |
| 25th Percentile |
$8.48 |
| 50th Percentile |
$10.81 |
| 75th Percentile |
$13.91 |
Wages, San Joaquin County
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$8.53 |
| 25th Percentile |
$9.72 |
| 50th Percentile |
$12.88 |
| 75th Percentile |
$16.03 |
Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey
Hours & Benefits
The normal workweek is 40 hours, but when products, merchandise or materials are needed in a hurry, clerks may have to work overtime on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and evenings. Overtime is usually paid at time and a half.
Fringe benefits can include paid vacations and holidays, group life, health and dental insurance, sick leave and retirement. Some employers offer clerks stock purchase and profit sharing plans.
Employment Trends, California
| Employment 1998 |
129,800 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
140,900 |
| Percent Change 1998-2008 |
8.6% |
| Separations 1998-2008 |
22,500 |
Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
| Employment 1999 |
1,290 |
| Projected Employment 2006 |
1,390 |
| Percent Change 1999-2006 |
7.8% |
| Separations 1999-2006 |
160 |
Employment Trends by California County
Working Conditions
Shipping and Receiving Clerks can work indoors and outdoors. Working conditions depend on the type of employer. Clerks employed in new shipping centers or large department stores usually work in comfortable areas that are air-conditioned, well-heated and lighted. Those clerks who work in large warehouses can (depending on the weather) experience uncomfortable temperatures. These warehouses are often hot, drafty or cold. Shipping and receiving materials generally are not considered dangerous. Clerks who ship and receive heavy merchandise can be injured and must be careful in handling orders.
Advancement
Promotional opportunities for Shipping and Receiving Clerks are better in big companies and depend on proven skill and ability. A typical promotion ladder is to shipping and receiving supervisor, warehouse manager and then to traffic rate clerk. Chances for more advancement are better for workers who continue to improve their skills and pick up other skills. These workers may be promoted to traffic manager, buyer, or purchasing agent.
Getting the Job & Other Information
Shipping and Receiving Clerks may find work by applying to employers, private employment agencies and the California Employment Development Department Program. Newspaper classified ads are also an excellent source of job leads.
For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank. |
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Employers may prefer workers who are familiar with certain types of business operations such as retail or manufacturing. They also may want workers with knowledge of different shipping methods such as U.S. postal and private parcel post service, air freight, railroad, and trucking. New employees or those employees recruited from inside the company from positions such as packer, order filler, or stock clerk are usually trained on the job by experienced workers. Some companies may require a physical examination.
Skills & Other Requirements
Most employers expect clerks to have at least normal strength and be able to stand for long periods. Normal or corrected eyesight and hearing are a must. Shipping and Receiving Clerks sometimes work under pressure to move merchandise in or out according to tight time schedules. Shipping and Receiving Clerks must write correctly and spell accurately, and they must have a good memory.
References
California Occupational Guide: #63
Related Occupations: Stock Clerks, Auto Parts Counter Workers
Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP) |
