Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks
Verify and maintain records on incoming and outgoing shipments involving inventory. Duties include verifying and recording incoming merchandise or material and arranging for the transportation of products. May prepare items for shipment.
Common Job Titles
- Receiver
- Receiving Clerk
- Shipper
- Shipping Clerk
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate incoming shipments for accuracy and compliance with purchase orders by inspecting materials, verifying quantities, and identifying discrepancies.Proficient
- KnowledgeDemonstrate proficiency with enterprise resource planning (ERP) and shipping management software including SAP, Microsoft Excel, and carrier-specific platforms such as UPS WorldShip and FedEx Ship Manager.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply inventory tracking procedures and shipping documentation standards using warehouse management systems and barcode scanning technology in warehouse settings.Developing
- Hands-onOperate material handling equipment including forklifts and hand trucks while moving and positioning incoming and outgoing shipments following safety protocols.Developing
- Hands-onExecute package preparation and labeling procedures using barcode printers, RFID devices, and automated packaging equipment for outbound freight.Developing
- KnowledgeApply time management and prioritization techniques to coordinate multiple shipments and meet delivery deadlines in high-volume distribution environments.Developing
- MindsetEngage with supervisors, carriers, and warehouse personnel to resolve shipping discrepancies and coordinate logistics operations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply critical thinking and problem-solving methods to address inventory shortages, transportation delays, and documentation errors independently.Developing
- Hands-onPerform physical tasks including lifting, sorting, and organizing inventory materials in compliance with workplace safety standards and ergonomic guidelines.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain shipping procedures, inventory policies, and documentation requirements when training new employees or responding to inquiries from internal departments.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
857,630
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $32,900. 25th percentile: U.S. $37,040. 50th percentile: U.S. $43,190. 75th percentile: U.S. $49,390. 90th percentile: U.S. $60,300. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $32,900 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $60,300 |
| Workers on average earn | $44,890 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Administrative3.4/5
- Computers and Electronics3.1/5
- Production and Processing3.1/5
- Mathematics3.0/5
- English Language3.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- ADi SmartBOL
- AES MailSTAR
- Accuship Star System
- Aestiva Purchase Order
- Barcode labeling software
- Bill of lading software
- CMS Consultants WorldLink
- Citrix cloud computing software
Tools & Equipment
- Barcode printers
- Box cutters
- Desktop computers
- Fixed radio frequency identification device RFID readers
- Forklifts
- Hand trucks
- Handheld bar code scanners
- Handheld scanners