What does a Shipping Receiving Clerk do?
A Shipping Receiving Clerk handles the tasks of receiving goods, materials, and supplies, and organizing their distribution. They are responsible for ensuring that shipments come in and go out on time, are processed efficiently, and that inventory is managed appropriately.
Key duties & responsibilities
Shipping Receiving Clerks in the Operations field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:
- Receive and check incoming shipments against invoices or orders for accuracy and record discrepancies or damages.
- Organize and store received items in appropriate areas.
- Prepare items for shipping, including packing, labeling, and scheduling pickups.
- Maintain accurate records of inventory, including location and quantity.
- Operate and manage automated warehouse equipment and systems.
- Coordinate with carriers and freight forwarders to schedule pick-ups and deliveries.
- Process returns and exchanges by ensuring items are restocked or disposed of properly.
- Handle shipping and receiving paperwork meticulously and ensure all records are maintained accurately.
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How to become a Shipping Receiving Clerk
Launching a career as a Shipping Receiving Clerk requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.
Qualification
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Previous experience in a shipping and receiving role preferred.
- Familiarity with using shipping software and inventory management systems.
- Basic computer skills and ability to enter data accurately.
Requirements & skills
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in order processing.
- Ability to lift heavy objects and handle physical workload.
- Good communication skills for coordinating with coworkers and carriers.
- Problem-solving skills and the ability to handle unexpected delays or issues effectively.
- Knowledge of warehouse safety procedures and guidelines.
Shipping Receiving Clerk salary guide
Wondering what Shipping Receiving Clerks earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.
The average salary for a Shipping Receiving Clerk in the U.S. is approximately $38,452 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Shipping Receiving Clerks may receive a wide range of benefits.
Shipping Receiving Clerk salary career steps
- Entry Level0-2 years $28,839
- Mid Level3-5 years $34,607
- Experienced6-10 years $38,452
- Senior11+ years $42,297
- Veteran20+ years $48,065
Based on public data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Payscale. Career-level figures are estimates derived from the national average; actual pay varies by employer, region and experience.
How much can you earn as a Shipping Receiving Clerk?
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How to advance your career
Shipping Receiving Clerks typically start their careers with a high school diploma or equivalent. Entry-level positions in shipping and receiving may include roles such as Warehouse Associate, Shipping Clerk, or Receiving Clerk, where professionals gain foundational experience in inventory management, order processing, and logistics operations.
With experience, Shipping Receiving Clerks can advance to roles such as Lead Shipping Receiving Clerk, Warehouse Supervisor, or Logistics Coordinator, where they oversee shipping and receiving operations, manage inventory systems, and coordinate logistics activities.
Continued education, obtaining certifications such as Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) or Certified Logistics Technician (CLT), and gaining hands-on experience with inventory management software and logistics technologies are essential for career growth in this field.
Typical work environment
Shipping Receiving Clerks work in various industries, including manufacturing, retail, distribution, and logistics companies. They collaborate closely with warehouse managers, inventory control specialists, and transportation personnel to ensure the efficient flow of goods in and out of facilities.
Shipping Receiving Clerks use computer systems and handheld devices to record shipments, track inventory levels, and generate shipping documents such as packing slips and bills of lading. They may also operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment to load and unload shipments.
The work environment for Shipping Receiving Clerks is often fast-paced and physically demanding, with professionals frequently lifting and moving heavy objects and working in warehouse or distribution center settings.
While standard business hours are typical, Shipping Receiving Clerks may need to work evenings, weekends, or overtime to accommodate shipping schedules or handle urgent orders. Overall, being a Shipping Receiving Clerk offers the opportunity to play a vital role in the supply chain process and contribute to the timely delivery of goods to customers.
About this profile
This profile for a Shipping Receiving Clerk is based on public sources such as the BLS and Payscale and was structured with the help of AI. It is intended as a general orientation — duties, requirements and salaries can differ by employer, country and experience.
