How To Become a Warehouse Worker

Steps to Become a Warehouse Worker

1. Complete your education.

   Although many employers will hire warehouse workers who have only a high school diploma or GED, if you're interested in advancing within the position, you should consider at least earning an associate degree in logistics. This degree program will cover inventory management, warehousing, procurement, and transportation.

2. Perfect your skills.

   • Interpersonal skills: Also known as 'people skills,' interpersonal skills help you work well in a team. They consist of verbal communication and active listening, both of which are important so you can follow directions and communicate effectively.
   • Technical skills: These skills might include math and computer knowledge. You might need to use computers to update inventory quantities and print shipping labels.
   • Time management skills: Warehouses are usually fast-paced environments, so you need to know how to move quickly and use your time wisely.

3. Pursue certification.

   • Certified in Production and Inventory Management: The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) offers this certification, which focuses on supply chain design and best practices.
   • Certified Professional in Distribution and Warehousing: The American Purchasing Society (APS) issues this certification, which trains people in distribution, warehouse management, and logistics.
   • Certified Supply Chain Professional: Also offered by APICS, this certification focuses on managing inventory in production once it arrives at the warehouse.

4. Gain experience.

   As an entry-level warehouse worker, you'll learn what's expected with on-the-job training. You will load and unload shipments at a central warehouse or a store setting. You might use heavy-lifting equipment to ensure that everything operates smoothly. Your main job in this role is to learn more about warehouse operations and get used to the environment so you can prepare for a more regular role.

5. Become a leader.

   If you're interested in moving up within the company, you want management to view you as a leader. Take initiative when you're given a task to complete. Hiring and training employees is a huge investment, so employers often want to promote from within. Showing initiative can show how dedicated you are to the company, and management might be more inclined to offer you an upper-level position such as warehouse supervisor.