Shipping/Receiving Clerk
PrintWork Tasks
SHIPPING/RECEIVING CLERKS keep records of all goods shipped, received, and transferred between businesses and their customers and suppliers. Their duties depend upon the size of the establishment and the level of automation used. Larger companies generally have computers and other equipment to handle some of the clerk's work. In smaller companies, clerks maintain records, prepare shipments, and accept deliveries. Shipping clerks keep records of all outgoing shipments. Receiving clerks verify incoming shipments against the original order and the accompanying bill of lading or invoice. Clerks may also prepare invoices and furnish information about shipments to other parts of the company.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $33,500 average per year ($16.00 per hour)
- A large occupation (769,200 workers in 2010)
- Expected to decline (0.3% per year)
Entry Requirements
Employers prefer to hire SHIPPING/RECEIVING CLERKS who have a high school diploma. Clerks usually learn skills on the job by doing routine tasks under close supervision. They start out by checking items to be shipped and then attaching labels to them and making sure that the addresses are correct. Training in the use of automated equipment is usually done on the job. No special licensing or certification is required for shipping/receiving clerks. Those who handle jewelry, liquor, or drugs may have to be bonded.