Materials Handler

Career Guide
A Materials Handler moves, stores, and tracks goods in warehouses, factories, and distribution centers. The role focuses on safe handling, accurate inventory movement, and supporting smooth shipping and receiving operations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Load and unload trucks and containers
  • Move materials to storage or production areas
  • Pick items for orders using pick lists
  • Pack and label shipments
  • Receive incoming goods and compare against paperwork
  • Check items for damage and report issues
  • Use pallet jacks and forklifts when trained and authorized
  • Scan items to update inventory records
  • Organize storage locations to keep aisles clear and safe
  • Follow safety rules for lifting, stacking, and hazardous materials when applicable
  • Prepare goods for staging, shipping, or production runs
  • Keep work areas clean and report safety hazards

Top Skills for Success

Attention to Detail
Reliability
Time Management
Teamwork
Clear Communication
Safe Lifting Techniques
Forklift Operation
Pallet Jack Operation
Inventory Scanning
Basic Math Skills
Inventory Counting
Shipping Documentation Handling
Receiving Procedures
Warehouse Organization
Safety Compliance

Career Progression

Can Lead To
Warehouse Associate
Shipping Associate
Receiving Associate
Inventory Associate
Transition Opportunities
Forklift Operator
Inventory Control Specialist
Shipping and Receiving Clerk
Warehouse Lead
Warehouse Supervisor
Logistics Coordinator
Quality Inspector

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills
Forklift CertificationInventory Systems KnowledgeOrder Picking AccuracyHazard AwarenessQuality CheckingBasic Shipping Knowledge
Development SuggestionsAsk to cross train in receiving, picking, and inventory counting. Complete forklift training through your employer or a local program. Practice scanning workflows and double check counts. Learn common shipping labels and basic paperwork. Build a simple habit of reporting damage, location errors, and safety risks early.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range
Entry Level$32,000 to $40,000 per year
Mid Level$40,000 to $50,000 per year
Senior Level$50,000 to $62,000 per year
Growth Trend
Steady demand. Hiring rises with e commerce activity, regional distribution growth, and manufacturing output. Automation changes tasks, but reliable workers with equipment skills remain in demand.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers
AmazonWalmartUPS Supply Chain SolutionsFedEx Supply ChainDHL Supply ChainTargetHome DepotCostcoUlineXPO Logistics
Industry Sectors
Warehousing and DistributionRetail DistributionThird Party LogisticsManufacturingFood and BeveragePharmaceuticalsConstruction MaterialsAutomotive PartsHealthcare Supplies

Recommended Next Steps

1
Get forklift certification if your workplace uses powered equipment
2
Volunteer for cross training in receiving and inventory counting
3
Track your accuracy and on time performance to support promotions
4
Learn the inventory scanning system used at your site and practice error free scans
5
Review safety standards and follow them consistently, especially around lifting and stacking
6
Update your resume with measurable results such as picks per hour and error rate