What does a Package Handler do?

A package handler is responsible for loading and unloading packages within a warehouse or from delivery vehicles. This position requires the moving, lifting, pushing, pulling, scanning and placing of packages, boxes and other freight goods safely and efficiently following the company's policies and guidelines. Career advancements include supervisory and managerial roles with a potential need for a bachelor's degree being obtained.

Although there is no educational requirement to be a package handler, good oral and written communication skills are a must with a high school diploma preferred. To meet maximum efficiency, the ideal candidate will be self-driven and motivated in providing high performance while adhering to company standards. Due to the nature of the work, there is a physical demand to lift and move heavy weights.

What responsibilities are common for Package Handler jobs?
  • Load and unload packages from delivery vehicles
  • Lift and move heavy weights between destinations
  • Carry out work in accordance with company policies and guidelines
  • Sort cargo according to instructions provided as required
  • Work quickly and efficiently while adhering to safety standards
  • Process workload with minimal supervision
  • Ensure packages are not damaged throughout the process
  • Communicate effectively with relevant personnel to carry out tasks
What are the typical qualifications for Package Handler jobs?
  • Proven experience as a package handler is preferred
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • Hardworking and diligent to produce results
  • Self-driven and motivated
  • Diligent in following instructions clearly
  • Able to work efficiently and effectively with minimal supervision
  • Physical ability to lift heavy weights of up to 100lbs
  • Able to work flexible hours including night shifts as required
  • Able to stand and walk around for long hours at a time
EducationBachelor's Degree
Work/Life Balance
3.3 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.3 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

How much does a Package Handler make near United States?

Confident
$38,767 /yr
Total Pay
$36,839
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$1,927
 /yr

Additional Pay

$38,767

 / yr
$31K$49K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Package Handler Career Path

Learn how to become a Package Handler, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Package Handler
$38,767/yr
Package Handler Supervisor
$42,820/yr
Package Handler

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
6%
2 - 4
4%
5 - 7
0%
8+
90%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Package Handler Insights

Read what Package Handler professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
Graphic Packaging InternationalGraphic Packaging International
Picking And Packing
Aug 3, 2021

“Good pay good job really recommend it especially if you have no kids and want to dedicate yourself to working”

FedEx GroundFedEx Ground
Ground Package Handler
Dec 13, 2021

“FedEx was not prepared and didn't do much to address safety issues that were present every single day.”

FedEx GroundFedEx Ground
Part Time Package Handler
Mar 15, 2022

“During peak season the work schedule is intense but the bonuses and overtime make for really good checks.”

UPSUPS
Package Handler
Mar 24, 2023

“The pay was great at 15. 50 an hour and over 25 hrs got overtime pay.”

Sainsbury’sSainsbury’s
Picking and Packing/Inspecting Special Orders/Box Orders
Sep 11, 2022

“Well to the best of my knowledge the company is well organized and the pay is fair...”

UPSUPS
Package Handler
Jul 13, 2023

“But what i mean is the expectation is speed over your body and personal injury.”

UPSUPS
Package Handler
Jan 18, 2022

“not that many cons if you need a job as part time great way to make some extra cash”

UPSUPS
Package Handler
Dec 1, 2021

“pay isn't great at 1st but once you work 2 years you will get top rate 27$/hr”

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Package Handler Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Package Handler

When working as a Package Handler, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are English Language, Load Unload, Excellent Communication, Box Truck, and Attention To Detail.

The most similar professions to Package Handler are:
  • Packer
  • Material Handler
  • Forklift Operator
  • Warehouse Worker

The most common qualifications to become a Package Handler include a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.

Related Careers

Packer
$38,044
50% skills overlap
Material Handler
$44,571
38% skills overlap
Forklift Operator
$47,296
63% skills overlap
Warehouse Worker
$39,185
50% skills overlap

Package Handler Jobs