In a distribution or shipping and receiving department, a shipping clerk is in charge of processing outgoing shipments. Packages, parcels, crates, and pallets are examples of these. The shipping and receiving clerk may be the same person in some businesses. In a small or large business, he may work alone or as part of a team.
A shipping clerk’s job requires a high level of attention to detail. In most cases, he is required to keep track of all pertinent information for each package sent. Tracking information, weight, dimensions, and special notations about fragility, hazardous materials, or unpacking instructions are all common examples of this data.
After recording the contents of the package, the clerk usually compares the data to an invoice, purchase order, or bill of lading. He usually arranges the shipment if the contents and documentation are correct. He frequently chooses the best shipping company for the job based on policies and procedures, the package’s destination, and the desired speed of shipment.
A shipping clerk will often determine the best packaging options based on the size, contents, and shipping method. He usually prepares shipments using standard boxes and packing materials. He may be required to custom build a crate or container for the shipment if it is a special size or shape. Protective packing materials have traditionally been used to ensure the security and safety of package contents, preventing breakage and damage. Shipping labels with clear writing and special handling instructions are usually affixed to packages.
A shipping clerk is generally expected to assist in the return of merchandise to his company if the recipient receives the incorrect shipment or if the merchandise is damaged. Filling out the necessary paperwork ensures that the receiving company will not be charged for the items is a regular part of this process. A person in this position is usually in charge of verifying proof of delivery of returned goods.
A shipping clerk is usually in charge of a company’s shipping department. He is generally expected to maintain appropriate levels of shipping materials inventory. To keep operations running smoothly, it’s usually necessary to maintain good communication with all company departments. The clerk’s efficiency is generally increased when he or she has a good relationship with the shipping companies.
The shipping clerk may be required to operate warehouse equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, dollies, or hand trucks if the company for which he works ships large or bulky items. He may use loading docks, freight cars, shipping containers, or trucks to load packages. The clerk may be required to repackage or relabel certain items if the shipment does not comply with the transportation company’s guidelines.
For this position, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually required. It’s a plus if you know how to use a computer. Because the job often entails moving and lifting packages, being physically fit is often a requirement. Traditionally, shipping, receiving, or traffic supervisors have trained most shipping clerks.