Carrier

What does a carrier do? – Tasks and work environment

A carrier mainly works with transporting, lifting, and moving goods, furniture, or materials, often within the moving industry, warehouse operations, or at airports as ramp personnel. Tasks can range from carrying heavy items during household moves to handling luggage and goods during loading and unloading. The work is usually done in teams and requires physical endurance, precision, and safety awareness, especially when handling bulky or delicate objects. The work environment can be indoors or outdoors, often in changing temperatures and sometimes under time pressure, making flexibility and stress resistance valuable traits.

Salary development over time

The salary development for carriers has been relatively stable over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29800 SEK per month, representing an increase of approximately 7% to 31 900 SEK in 2023. Since then, the salary level has remained at the same level during 2024, indicating a slowdown in growth. The initial increase can be explained by increased demand for transportation and logistics, especially during periods of higher mobility in society and growing e-commerce. The recent stagnation is likely due to a stabilized labor market within the industry, where supply and demand have balanced out. Although the salary remains at the same level as the previous year, the salary level is competitive considering the educational requirements and the nature of the tasks.

Carrier salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 31 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (women), 31,500 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 56,700 SEK/month (men, public sector, postgraduate education <3 years), 31,400 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 192 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (women: 31,200 SEK, men: 32 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations are limited, but salary levels may vary slightly depending on location and sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a carrier, formal education is seldom required, but employers prefer candidates with completed basic or high school education and good physical condition. Some employers offer internal introductory courses or internships to ensure proper handling of heavy and fragile objects. Experience in similar jobs or industries is advantageous, and specific certifications may be required in certain areas, such as forklift licenses for warehouse work.

• Formal education: Basic school or high school recommended
• Certifications: Forklift licenses or similar may be advantageous in warehouse work
• Internship/trainee: Common during employment, especially for beginners
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and ability to cooperate
• Tips for choosing: Prefer employers offering introduction and safety training

Common benefits and compensations

Carriers are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for work during unsociable hours, wellness allowances, and sometimes work clothing or protective gear. Some employers also provide insurance, paid leave for special occasions, and opportunities to participate in training for further skill development. Overtime and shift work supplements are also common, along with bonuses for particularly demanding assignments.

Competition and challenges

The competition for carrier positions is relatively low due to high demand for labor in the field. At the same time, the industry is characterized by a paradoxical recruitment situation, with both recruitment difficulties and a high proportion of part-time workers or those leaving the profession. Challenges include the physically demanding work environment, risk of work-related injuries, and sometimes uneven workload between high and low seasons. For those with the right attitude and good physical condition, there are good opportunities for both permanent employment and career development in the field.

Tips for aspiring carriers

To succeed as a carrier, it is good to have a strong work ethic and a positive attitude towards physical work. Endurance helps with heavy lifting and long working days, while accuracy reduces the risk of damage to goods and yourself. Teamwork skills are crucial since the work is often done in teams, so demonstrate your ability to communicate and follow instructions. Flexibility makes it easier when tasks and schedules vary, and a good mood is always appreciated by customers and colleagues. Being punctual and reliable quickly builds trust with employers and clients. Finally, be open to learning new skills and following safety routines – this increases your safety and career opportunities.

Key facts about carriers

• Education level: Basic school or high school
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often outdoors and in teams
• Demand: High, with 412 job openings nationwide
• Common employment forms: Full-time, shift, and hourly employment

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a carrier, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader in moving or warehousing, or to further education in logistics, transportation planning, or property management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand for ramp personnel, movers, and stock replenishment staff remains high, and the labor market is expected to remain stable over the next five years. The industry offers good prospects for permanent employment for those who are dedicated and reliable, although the physically demanding environment and sometimes uneven workload can lead to some turnover. Specialization in areas such as secure handling of sensitive goods or managing larger logistics flows can provide additional career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about carriers

• What is the average salary of a carrier?
  - A carrier has an average salary of 31 900 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in carrier salaries?
  - Women earn 31,200 SEK on average while men earn 32 000 SEK, meaning women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a carrier?
  - Formal education is seldom required, but basic school or high school education and good physical condition are recommended.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand for carriers is high and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• Is there room for advancement within the profession?
  - Yes, experienced carriers can become team leaders or further their education in logistics and transportation.
• What are the most common occupational health and safety risks?
  - Heavy lifting and the risk of musculoskeletal injuries are the main risks.
• What is the hourly wage for carriers?
  - The hourly wage is 192 SEK for hourly-paid carriers.