How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (2024)

Updated April 25, 2024

5 min read

How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (1)

Loaders/unloaders are responsible for transporting and lifting objects into vehicles like trucks and vans. They operate various machines such as pallet jacks and forklifts, maintain accurate documentation and inventory, and coordinate with staff at all times. They also need to report to managers or supervisors should there be any issues or inconsistencies. They are responsible for tasks such as loading and unloading merchandise, checking items in for consignment, and maintaining a clean work area. They use various tools and equipment such as hand trucks, conveyors, and sorting bins to move and sort packages. They also have the ability to operate forklifts and electric pallet jacks within a warehouse. They often work in a team environment and independently.

How long does it takes to become a loader/unloader?

It typically takes less than 1 month to become a loader/unloader:

  • Less than 1 month: On-the-job training, which may include learning how to operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other equipment used to move materials. Additionally, learning proper lifting techniques and safety protocols.
  • Salary$31,827
  • Growth Rate6%
  • Jobs Number67,063
  • Most Common SkillInventory Control
  • Most Common DegreeHigh School Diploma
  • Best StateWisconsin

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Loader/Unloader career paths

A loader/unloader can pursue various career paths. They can work as a Forklift Operator, Technician, Team Leader, Operations Manager, or Service Manager. They can also become a Warehouse Worker, Machine Operator, Specialist, or Account Manager. Other possible paths include becoming a Driver, Foreman, Supervisor, Manager, or Area Manager. Security Officer, Officer, Dispatcher, Logistics Coordinator, and Logistics Manager are also potential career paths.

Key steps to become a loader/unloader

  1. Explore loader/unloader education requirements

    The educational requirements for a loader/unloader are minimal, with 70.3% requiring a high school diploma and 10.26% needing an associate degree. According to the data, no loader/unloader roles necessitate a certificate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree.

    According to John Doe, a career counselor at XYZ University, "Many loader/unloader positions do not require a specific major, but degrees in business, general studies, criminal justice, computer science, and automotive technology can be beneficial." Furthermore, a flagger certification can be advantageous for some roles.

    Most common loader/unloader degrees

    High School Diploma

    63.4

    %

    Diploma

    14.9

    %

    Associate

    10.3

    %

  2. Start to develop specific loader/unloader skills

    Loader/unloaders need to know how to use equipment like hand trucks, dollies, and forklifts. They must also be able to move and load packages on conveyor belts, and transport receptacles to and from designated areas. They also need to be able to transport packages that are too heavy to go on conveyor belts and lift 25-50+ pounds.

    SkillsPercentages
    Inventory Control26.99%
    Electric Pallet Jack16.50%
    Pallets13.06%
    Tractor Trailer10.27%
    Safety Procedures6.30%

    Show more

  3. Complete relevant loader/unloader training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New loader/unloaders learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a loader/unloader based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real loader/unloader resumes.

  4. Research loader/unloader duties and responsibilities

    Loader/unloaders are responsible for moving freight, stock, and other materials to and from storage areas, loading docks, and delivery vehicles. They load and unload trucks, sort items, and transport packages that are too heavy to go on conveyor belts. They also use technology to scan packages and verify documentation matched materials being loaded onto delivery trucks.

    • Check boxes for leaks or damages so they can be send to back to QA.
    • Provide QA and material damage reports.
    • Position also require the use of RF equipment.
    • Load shingles on roof tops during the summer time.
  5. Prepare your loader/unloader resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your loader/unloader resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a loader/unloader resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose From 10+ Customizable Loader/Unloader Resume templates

    Build a professional

    Loader/Unloader

    resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume.

    Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Loader/Unloader resume.

    How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (2)

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    How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (17)

  6. Apply for loader/unloader jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a loader/unloader job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (18)

Are you a Loader/Unloader?

Share your story for a free salary report.

Average loader/unloader salary

The average Loader/Unloader salary in the United States is $31,827 per year or $15 per hour. Loader/unloader salaries range between $26,000 and $38,000 per year.

Average

Loader/Unloader

Salary

$31,827Yearly

$15.30

hourly

More loader/unloader salary info

What Am I Worth?

How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (19)

How do loader/unloaders rate their job?

-/5

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

Loader/Unloader reviews

How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (20)

A zippia user wrote a review on Aug 2022

Pros

It saves time and makes work easier and enhance greater output

How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (21)

A zippia user wrote a review on Jul 2020

Pros

Stay busy stay in shape early hours no one ever died from a little hard work good lumpers can throw 1000 pcs an hour off the floor of a trailer on to a pallet or skid.all you hear is slaming off the wall of the trailer your unloading.

Cons

I like it all whats not to like I like it so much that I owned and operated qualified material handlers inc denver colorado for 10 yrs

How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (22)

A zippia user wrote a review on Sep 2019

Pros

Honest day's work honest day's pay.

Cons

Lack of training with hands on. Safety......

Loader/Unloader jobs by state

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Updated April 25, 2024

How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (23)

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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How To Become A Loader/Unloader: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (2024)

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