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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Goods Packer

💰 $15 - $22 / hour (Varies by location and experience)

LogisticsSupply ChainWarehousingGeneral LaborOperations

🎯 Role Definition

A Goods Packer is a vital team member at the heart of any logistics and supply chain operation. This role is fundamentally responsible for the final stage of order fulfillment, ensuring that customer orders are assembled, packaged, and prepared for shipment with precision, care, and efficiency. More than just putting items in a box, a Goods Packer acts as the final quality checkpoint, safeguarding product integrity and upholding the company's commitment to customer satisfaction. Working in a dynamic, fast-paced warehouse or distribution center, the packer directly impacts the customer's unboxing experience and the overall reputation of the business.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • General Laborer
  • Retail Stock Associate
  • No prior experience (entry-level)

Advancement To:

  • Warehouse Team Lead / Packing Supervisor
  • Shipping & Receiving Coordinator
  • Inventory Control Specialist

Lateral Moves:

  • Forklift Operator (with certification)
  • Quality Control Inspector
  • Stock Clerk / Material Handler

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Accurately pick items from inventory locations based on digital or paper-based order sheets, verifying product numbers, quantities, and quality before packing.
  • Meticulously select and arrange items into appropriate-sized boxes, envelopes, or containers, ensuring optimal use of space and protective materials.
  • Apply appropriate packing materials, such as bubble wrap, air pillows, foam, or paper, to cushion products and prevent damage during transit.
  • Securely seal packages using tape guns, adhesives, or strapping tools to ensure they remain closed and protected throughout the shipping journey.
  • Weigh packages and apply the correct shipping labels, postage, and any required documentation in accordance with carrier and company guidelines.
  • Operate and maintain various types of packing equipment, including but not limited to tape dispensers, box erectors, and shrink-wrap machines.
  • Perform final quality control checks on packed orders to verify that all items are correct, undamaged, and meet presentation standards.
  • Systematically scan items and packages into the Warehouse Management System (WMS) to update order statuses and maintain accurate inventory records.
  • Sort and stage packed orders in designated areas based on shipping carrier, destination, or delivery speed to streamline the dispatch process.
  • Follow specific packaging instructions for fragile, hazardous, or high-value items to ensure compliance with safety and shipping regulations.
  • Efficiently manage workflow to meet or exceed daily packing quotas and contribute to the team's overall performance targets.
  • Disassemble and dispose of used or damaged shipping containers and packing materials in an environmentally responsible manner.
  • Build and assemble custom-sized boxes or crates for non-standard items, demonstrating practical problem-solving skills.
  • Consistently monitor inventory levels of packing supplies (e.g., boxes, tape, fill) and report shortages to the supervisor to prevent workflow interruptions.
  • Adhere strictly to all workplace health and safety (WHS/OSHA) policies and procedures, including proper lifting techniques and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Prepare and process orders for various shipping methods, including domestic ground, express air, and international shipments, ensuring all customs paperwork is accurate.
  • Collaborate with other warehouse teams, such as picking and shipping, to ensure a smooth and continuous flow of goods through the facility.
  • Identify and report any product defects, order discrepancies, or system errors to the team lead for prompt resolution.
  • Handle returned goods by inspecting them, documenting their condition, and processing them for restocking or disposal according to company protocol.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation at all times, contributing to overall warehouse efficiency and a hazard-free environment.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with periodic physical inventory counts and cycle counts to help maintain inventory accuracy.
  • Participate in team meetings and continuous improvement initiatives to suggest ways to enhance packing processes and efficiency.
  • Provide support to other departments within the warehouse, such as picking or receiving, during peak periods or as needed.
  • Help train new team members on standard packing procedures, safety guidelines, and use of equipment.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Manual Dexterity: The physical ability to handle and manipulate objects, pack items, and use hand tools quickly and skillfully.
  • RF Scanner Operation: Proficiency in using handheld RF (Radio Frequency) scanners for order picking, inventory tracking, and confirming shipments.
  • WMS Experience: Basic computer literacy and the ability to navigate a Warehouse Management System (WMS) to process orders and look up information.
    -Packing Equipment Operation: Competence in operating standard packing machinery like tape guns, strapping machines, and heat sealers.
  • Physical Stamina & Strength: The ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift for extended periods, and to lift and move packages weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
  • Spatial Awareness: The skill to mentally visualize how to best fit items of various shapes and sizes into a container efficiently and securely.
  • Basic Math & Numeracy: Ability to accurately count, sort, and verify quantities against order forms.
  • Knowledge of Shipping Procedures: Familiarity with the labeling and documentation requirements for major carriers (e.g., UPS, FedEx, USPS).
  • Quality Control Principles: A basic understanding of how to inspect products and packaging for defects and compliance with standards.
  • Safety Protocol Adherence: Knowledge of proper lifting techniques and general warehouse safety procedures.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: A keen eye for ensuring order accuracy, product quality, and proper packaging to prevent errors, damage, and returns.
  • Time Management: The ability to work efficiently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment to meet strict deadlines and quotas.
  • Dependability & Reliability: A strong work ethic demonstrated by consistent attendance, punctuality, and a commitment to completing assigned tasks.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: The capacity to work cooperatively with colleagues to achieve shared goals and maintain a positive work environment.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to switch between different tasks, handle changes in workflow, and learn new processes as required.
  • Problem-Solving: The initiative to identify issues, such as a damaged item or a supply shortage, and find a practical solution or report it promptly.
  • Communication Skills: The ability to clearly communicate with team leads and coworkers regarding order status, issues, or supply needs.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate or vocational training in Logistics, Warehousing, or Supply Chain.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • Business Operations

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 0-2 years of experience in a warehouse, distribution center, manufacturing, or retail environment.

Preferred:

  • 6+ months of direct experience in a packing, order fulfillment, or shipping role is highly desirable. Experience working with a Warehouse Management System (WMS) and RF scanners is a significant plus.
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