Shipping and Receiving Job Description Template

Hiring for shipping and receiving shouldn’t take all day—use this guide to finalize a compliant, high-performing posting in minutes.

A shipping and receiving job description defines the role. It prepares outbound orders and processes inbound goods, ensures accurate documentation, and keeps inventory moving safely and on schedule.

Typical titles include Shipping and Receiving Clerk, Associate, and Lead. All sit in the broader “material recording” family per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Overview

A shipping and receiving job description covers the end-to-end flow of materials. That includes picking, packing, labeling, carrier handoff, unloading, verifying against purchase orders, and updating a WMS/ERP.

The role usually reports to a Warehouse Manager, Operations Manager, or Logistics Supervisor. It works closely with inventory, procurement, and carriers (UPS/FedEx/LTL).

Small teams often combine shipping and receiving into one role for flexibility. Larger or higher-volume operations split the work or add a Lead to manage multiple docks and shifts.

If your volume spikes seasonally, cross-training a combined role can help maintain service levels. If you have frequent bottlenecks on either dock, consider splitting roles or adding a Lead to resolve exceptions and balance workloads.

In regulated environments (food/pharma or hazmat), specialized receiving or documentation responsibilities are common. These reduce risk and speed audits.

Role summary and scope

Use the summary below directly in your posting, then tailor to your industry and shift.

The Shipping and Receiving Associate ensures accurate, timely movement of goods. Duties include picking, packing, labeling, and staging outbound orders. The role also receives, inspects, and puts away inbound materials, and maintains system records in the WMS/ERP.

The role interacts with carriers, drivers, and inventory control. When applicable, it partners with production or customer service. It operates basic material handling equipment in a warehouse or dock environment.

Day-to-day, this position balances speed with accuracy, following standard operating procedures and safety rules to minimize damage, claims, and delays. Success shows up as on-time shipments, clean receiving, accurate inventory, and well-documented handoffs.

Core responsibilities for Shipping and Receiving

Here’s how to frame responsibilities by function and keep expectations crystal clear.

Shipping focuses on accurate order fulfillment and carrier handoff. Receiving focuses on verification and putaway. Both share system updates, safety, and communication.

Detailed daily tasks for each function appear below.

Shared, cross-functional duties that apply to most warehouse shipping and receiving job descriptions:

Update WMS/ERP records, print labels, and maintain documentation accuracy
Operate pallet jacks/forklifts safely and perform basic equipment checks
Communicate issues (shortages, damages, late trucks) and escalate per SOP
Maintain 5S/housekeeping and comply with PPE/safety policies
Support cycle counts and inventory control audits

If you’re hiring for a combined role, prioritize duties by your highest-volume workflows and note which tasks are primary vs. secondary. If you split roles, clarify who owns dock scheduling, documentation, and exception management to avoid gaps.

Daily shipping tasks

Pick orders per pick list or scanner, verify item/lot/quantity, and stage by carrier/service
Pack goods securely with appropriate dunnage, seals, and special handling as required
Weigh/measure cartons or pallets and generate compliant labels and documents (e.g., BOLs, packing lists, commercial invoices for exports)
Book shipments, print labels, and close out manifests in carrier tools (e.g., UPS WorldShip, FedEx Ship Manager) and WMS
Coordinate carrier/driver handoff, obtain signatures, and file documents
Load trucks safely with pallet jacks/forklifts, following weight limits and load diagrams
Record exceptions and initiate claims or corrective actions when needed

Daily receiving tasks

Unload inbound shipments safely, inspect packaging, and verify counts/condition
Match receipts to POs/ASNs, check item/lot/expiration (as applicable), and document discrepancies
Report damages/shortages, capture photos, and notify purchasing or suppliers per SOP
Label and put away materials to assigned locations; update WMS/ERP in real time
Perform initial quality checks (e.g., temperature, seal integrity) where required
Support cycle counts and reconcile variances with inventory control
Maintain clean, organized receiving lanes and return reusable dunnage/containers

Required skills and competencies

Prioritize skills that drive speed, accuracy, and safety. Strong candidates blend careful documentation with equipment proficiency and clear communication across shifts and teams.

Core shipping and receiving skills to highlight:

Attention to detail and documentation accuracy in WMS/ERP
Safe operation of pallet jacks/forklifts and dock equipment
Basic computer literacy (labels, scanners, carrier portals) and data entry
Time management and prioritization in fast-paced environments
Communication with carriers, drivers, and internal teams
Problem solving for exceptions (damages, shortages, labeling errors)

Emphasize that success requires a safety-first approach and readiness to follow SOPs, including lifting ergonomics and PPE. Note any industry-specific competencies (e.g., cold chain handling, lot control, or RF scanning).

Qualifications, certifications, and physical requirements

Most postings require a high school diploma or equivalent and 0–3 years of warehouse experience for entry-level. Lead roles often require 3–5 years and mentoring experience.

Employers must train and evaluate powered industrial truck operators before they use forklifts, per OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.178(l) (see OSHA Powered Industrial Trucks). Many employers provide and document this training.

If the role handles hazardous materials, PHMSA requires hazmat training within 90 days of assignment. Recurrent training is due at least every three years (49 CFR 172 Subpart H).

Physical expectations typically include standing and walking on concrete floors, pushing or pulling carts, and lifting. The NIOSH lifting guidance cites a recommended weight limit of 51 lb under ideal conditions. Adapt with team lifts and mechanical aids to reduce risk.

List any pre-employment checks your organization uses (e.g., background, drug screen). Add an ADA accommodation statement inviting candidates to request reasonable accommodations for the application and interview process. Keep your equal employment opportunity language consistent with EEOC guidance and your local legal requirements.

Tools, systems, and equipment commonly used

Naming representative tools attracts qualified applicants and reduces mismatched expectations. Include your WMS/ERP, scanning and labeling tools, carrier portals, and material handling equipment. Then prompt candidates to share similar systems they’ve used.

Examples to include and tailor:

Systems: NetSuite WMS, SAP EWM, Oracle, Fishbowl, 3PL Central; RF scanners (Zebra), RFID; labeling software/printers; scales/dimensioners; carrier tools (UPS WorldShip, FedEx Ship Manager, ShipStation/Shippo)
Equipment: pallet jacks, sit-down/stand-up forklifts, reach trucks, pallet wrappers, dock plates/levelers, safety cages

Encourage equivalency (e.g., “or similar WMS/ERP”) to widen your candidate pool while signaling your operational complexity. If you track lots/serials, mention it explicitly to attract candidates with inventory control experience.

Work environment, shifts, and reporting structure

Set clear expectations about shifts and overtime, especially for peak seasons. Note whether the role is day, swing, night, or weekend. List any shift differentials, and specify overtime eligibility during quarterly or holiday surges.

Describe environmental conditions such as temperature variation (coolers/freezers or non-climate-controlled docks), noise, and required PPE (safety shoes, hi-vis vest, gloves).

Clarify where the role sits—typically reporting to a Warehouse or Operations Manager. Note whether the team is union or non-union. If applicable, state team size and whether cross-training is expected across shipping, receiving, inventory control, and returns/RMA.

Sample Shipping and Receiving job description (copy-ready)

Use this fill-in-the-blank template as your base and customize to your industry, systems, and shift.

Job title: Shipping and Receiving Associate (or Clerk/Lead)

Location: [City, State] | Schedule: [Days/Hours/Shift differential if applicable]

About the role: You will prepare outbound shipments and process inbound receipts accurately and safely, operating material handling equipment and updating our WMS/ERP. You’ll coordinate with carriers and internal teams to keep orders on time and inventory accurate.

Core responsibilities:

Pick, pack, label, and stage outbound orders; generate shipping docs and close manifests
Book carriers (UPS/FedEx/LTL/TL), load safely, and complete driver handoffs
Receive, inspect, and verify inbound materials against POs; report discrepancies
Put away to assigned locations and update the WMS in real time; support cycle counts
Maintain documentation accuracy, housekeeping (5S), and safety compliance
Communicate issues and assist with returns/RMA as needed

Skills: Attention to detail; safe forklift/pallet jack operation; basic computer and RF scanning proficiency; time management; clear communication with drivers and internal teams.

Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent; [X] years of warehouse experience (entry-level acceptable for Associate); ability to lift up to [X] lb with proper ergonomics and aids; employer-provided forklift training per OSHA; hazmat training if assigned; reliable attendance.

Compensation and benefits: Pay range: $[low]–$[high] per hour, based on skills and experience; shift differential: [X% or $X/hr] for nights/weekends; overtime eligible. Benefits may include health, dental, vision, 401(k) with match, paid time off, paid holidays, and safety shoe reimbursement.

EEO and accommodations: We are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and provide reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process in accordance with applicable laws.

How to apply: Submit your resume via [application link/email]. Optional: note relevant WMS/ERP tools, forklift certifications, and shift availability.

Salary ranges, shift differentials, and benefits language

Anchor your range to current market data and your internal pay bands, then state it clearly to meet pay transparency rules in applicable jurisdictions.

For hourly roles, local market medians vary by region and industry. Consult sources like state wage surveys and internal equity, and keep figures consistent across all postings.

Note typical shift differentials (often 5–15% or a flat $1–$3 per hour) for nights/weekends. Specify overtime eligibility and any peak-season incentives or bonuses.

Use plain, inclusive benefits language and avoid jargon.

A good pattern: “Pay range: $18–$23 per hour based on skills and experience; $2/hr night shift differential; overtime eligible. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match, paid time off, paid holidays, and safety shoe reimbursement.”

If your state or city requires listing benefits and other compensation, include them alongside the range to stay compliant.

KPIs and success metrics for Shipping and Receiving roles

Give candidates and managers a shared scoreboard—KPIs turn expectations into outcomes. Choose a small set tied to accuracy, speed, safety, and cost. Set targets that reflect your volume and complexity.

Suggested shipping and receiving KPIs and targets:

On-time shipment rate: 98%+ by ship date and carrier service
Inventory accuracy: 97–99.5% location-level accuracy (cycle count variance)
Dock-to-stock time: inbound receipts put away within 24 hours (or same day for fast-movers)
Order/pick accuracy: 99.5%+ lines picked without error
Damage/claim rate: <0.5% of shipments; trend toward continuous reduction
Receiving throughput: [X] lines or [Y] pallets per hour per person
Safety: 0 OSHA recordables; near-miss reporting and corrective actions tracked

Review these monthly with the team and incorporate them into performance check-ins. If you operate across multiple shifts, report by shift to spot bottlenecks and share best practices.

Compliance, safety, and documentation essentials

Forklift operation requires employer-provided training and evaluation before use under OSHA’s powered industrial truck standard (29 CFR 1910.178). Document training and refreshers to avoid lapses.

If the role handles hazardous materials (shipping or receiving), ensure hazmat training within 90 days of hire/assignment. Recurrent training is required at least every three years, as required by PHMSA’s 49 CFR 172 Subpart H.

For international receipts or exports, include basic customs documentation expectations. Examples include a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Provide escalation paths. U.S. Customs and Border Protection outlines import/export basics.

Right-size your lifting policies and aids using ergonomics guidance. NIOSH’s lifting calculator cites a 51 lb recommended weight limit in ideal conditions. Implement team lifts, lift tables, or mechanical assist as needed.

Add practical carrier context in your SOPs. For example, UPS’s typical single-package weight limit is 150 lb, which influences packaging and service selection.

Include a concise EEO statement and accommodation language per EEOC employer guidance. Ensure ADA-consistent physical requirements so qualified individuals can seek reasonable accommodation.

Variations by industry and company size

In eCommerce fulfillment, the role skews toward high-volume picking, scanning, and cartonization. There is a heavy emphasis on returns/RMA processing and same-day cutoffs. SLAs and on-time shipment percentages are paramount.

In manufacturing, receiving focuses on verification against work orders/POs, line-side kitting, lot/serial tracking, and production handoffs. Documentation accuracy protects production uptime.

3PL environments add client-specific SOPs, labels, and reporting. Flexibility and mastery of multiple WMS instances are strong differentiators.

Small SMB teams often cross-train one associate to cover both docks plus inventory control. Mid-market and larger operations tend to specialize by dock/shift and add a Shipping and Receiving Lead to manage workload balancing, exceptions, and KPIs.

Screening tips and interview cues for hiring managers

A tight, consistent interview uncovers real hands-on capability fast. Focus on proof of systems, equipment, and documentation experience. Use situational prompts to gauge judgment.

Targeted proof points and prompts:

Ask candidates to walk through closing a UPS/FedEx manifest and printing BOLs for an LTL pickup
Verify forklift experience: truck types, hours, last evaluation, and daily inspection routine
Have them explain receiving against a PO/ASN and how they handle a short or damaged shipment
Ask about WMS/ERP experience (name the system) and how they performed real-time updates with RF scanners
Use scenarios: same-day cutoff approaching, a no-show carrier, or a mismatched lot—what do they do first?
Probe KPIs they owned (on-time shipment, accuracy) and how they improved a metric

Close by confirming shift flexibility, comfort with environmental conditions, and familiarity with your exact carrier mix. Where possible, add a brief hands-on or shadow session to validate equipment competence.

FAQs

What does a Shipping and Receiving Clerk do daily? They pick, pack, label, and stage outbound orders. They also unload and verify inbound shipments against POs, update the WMS/ERP, coordinate carrier handoffs, and report discrepancies or damages.
Do Shipping and Receiving roles require forklift certification, and who provides it? OSHA requires employers to train and evaluate powered industrial truck operators before they operate forklifts. Most companies provide and document this training in-house or via certified trainers.
What’s the difference between a Clerk, Associate, and Lead? Clerk/Associate are often interchangeable entry- to mid-level titles. Lead typically adds responsibility for workflow coordination, mentoring, dock scheduling, exception handling, and KPI ownership.
Which KPIs matter most? Common metrics include on-time shipment %, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock time, pick accuracy, damage/claim rate, and safety incidents. Start with 98%+ on-time and 99.5% pick accuracy as baseline targets.
How does the job differ in eCommerce vs. manufacturing vs. 3PL? eCommerce emphasizes speed, scanning, and returns. Manufacturing emphasizes receiving accuracy, lot/serial control, and production handoffs. 3PL adds client-specific SOPs and reporting across varied products.
Is forklift certification required for shipping and receiving? Yes—if operating forklifts, the employer must provide training and evaluation under OSHA 1910.178 before operation. Periodic refreshers are required thereafter.
What documentation beyond BOLs should the role handle? Expect packing lists, commercial invoices for exports, carrier labels/manifests, receiving reports, RMA paperwork, and hazmat shipping papers if applicable. International shipments also require customs docs per CBP.
How should I present salary and shift differentials? List a clear hourly range based on market and internal equity. Note overtime eligibility, and state any shift differentials (e.g., $2/hr for nights/weekends) alongside a concise benefits summary.
Which WMS/ERP and scanning tools should I mention? Name what you use (e.g., NetSuite WMS, SAP EWM, 3PL Central, Zebra scanners, UPS/FedEx tools). Add “or similar” to attract candidates with equivalent experience.