What does a shipping/receiving clerk do?

What is a Shipping/Receiving Clerk?

A shipping/receiving clerk is responsible for coordinating the movement of goods into and out of a company's facility. This role requires a combination of administrative, organizational, and physical skills. Shipping/receiving clerks work closely with other departments within the organization, as well as with outside vendors, carriers, and customers.

In the shipping aspect of the job, the clerk is responsible for packing and labeling items for shipment, verifying shipping information and preparing shipping documents, arranging for transportation, and tracking the shipment to its destination. In the receiving aspect of the job, the clerk is responsible for inspecting incoming shipments, verifying quantities and quality, and documenting any discrepancies or damages. They are also responsible for coordinating the movement of goods within the facility and maintaining inventory accuracy. Additionally, they may operate equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks to move and store goods.

What does a Shipping/Receiving Clerk do?

Duties and Responsibilities
A shipping/receiving clerk is responsible for managing the flow of goods in and out of a facility. The duties and responsibilities of a shipping/receiving clerk may include:

• Receiving shipments: The clerk is responsible for receiving all incoming shipments, verifying their contents, and ensuring that they match the packing list and purchase order.
• Inspecting goods: The clerk inspects incoming goods for damages, defects, or other issues and reports any discrepancies to the appropriate parties.
• Documenting shipments: The clerk is responsible for creating and maintaining accurate records of all incoming and outgoing shipments. This includes tracking numbers, invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading.
• Managing inventory: The clerk maintains accurate inventory records, including stock levels, locations, and expiration dates.
• Organizing and storing goods: The clerk organizes incoming goods in the warehouse or storage area, ensuring that they are easily accessible and properly labeled.
• Picking and packing orders: The clerk picks and packs outgoing orders according to customer specifications and prepares them for shipment.
• Shipping orders: The clerk is responsible for arranging for the shipment of outgoing goods, including selecting the appropriate carrier, preparing shipping documents, and ensuring timely delivery.
• Communicating with vendors and customers: The clerk communicates with vendors and customers to resolve issues, answer questions, and provide updates on shipment status.
• Maintaining a clean and organized work area: The clerk is responsible for keeping the shipping and receiving area clean and organized to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Following safety procedures: The clerk follows safety procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), to ensure a safe working environment.

Types of Shipping/Receiving Clerks
There are several types of shipping/receiving clerks, each with their specific duties and responsibilities. Here are some of the most common types:

• Warehouse shipping/receiving clerk: This type of clerk is responsible for managing the flow of goods in and out of a warehouse facility.
• Retail shipping/receiving clerk: This type of clerk works in a retail setting and is responsible for managing the flow of goods in and out of the store.
• Manufacturing shipping/receiving clerk: This type of clerk works in a manufacturing facility and is responsible for managing the flow of raw materials and finished goods in and out of the facility.
• Logistics shipping/receiving clerk: This type of clerk works in a logistics or transportation company and is responsible for managing the flow of goods in and out of the company's warehouse or distribution center.
• Freight shipping/receiving clerk: This type of clerk works in a freight company and is responsible for managing the flow of freight shipments in and out of the company's facilities.
• International shipping/receiving clerk: This type of clerk is responsible for managing the flow of goods in and out of the country, including preparing necessary customs documents and complying with international regulations.
• Expeditor shipping/receiving clerk: This type of clerk is responsible for expediting the delivery of goods, ensuring that they arrive at their destination on time.

What is the workplace of a Shipping/Receiving Clerk like?

A shipping/receiving clerk typically works in a warehouse or distribution center environment. The workplace can be fast-paced and physically demanding, as the clerk may be required to lift and move heavy packages, operate machinery such as forklifts or pallet jacks, and work on their feet for extended periods.

The clerk's primary responsibilities are to receive incoming shipments, verify their contents and quality, and ensure that they are properly stored. They may also be responsible for packing and shipping outgoing packages, using computer systems to track inventory, and preparing documentation for shipments.

The work environment may be noisy and may require the clerk to work in varying temperatures, depending on the products being stored or shipped. Safety is a top priority in this type of workplace, so the clerk will need to follow safety protocols and wear appropriate safety gear such as hard hats, safety shoes, and goggles.