Forwarder, warehouse

What does a warehouse clerk do? – Tasks and work environment

A warehouse clerk is responsible for receiving, registering, storing, and dispatching goods within warehouse and terminal operations. Tasks often include loading and unloading goods, order picking, inventory, and handling various transportation and IT-based warehouse systems. The work is mainly indoors in larger warehouse facilities but can also involve some outdoor activity when managing incoming or outgoing transports. The pace is often high, and the work environment requires both physical endurance and precision, especially when handling heavy or bulky items.

Salary development over time

The profession of warehouse clerk has shown stable salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, increasing to 32 100 SEK the following year. In 2024, the average salary continues to rise and is now 33 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.7% over three years. This trend can be explained by increased demand for logistics and warehouse staff driven by e-commerce growth, as well as central wage negotiations and inflation adjustments in the industry. Although salary increases have been relatively steady, regional differences and employer sector influence the development. The salary trend indicates continued attractiveness of the profession, despite high competition for jobs.

Warehouse clerk salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (man, public sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (woman, private sector, more than 3 years of post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 33 600 SEK, women 32 700 SEK (women earn 97% of what men do)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and demand

Education and qualifications

To work as a warehouse clerk, a high school education in transportation, logistics, or trade is generally required, but entry via apprenticeships or internal training is also possible. Practical skills and experience from warehouse work are often advantageous, and some employers require a forklift license or other certifications depending on the tasks. For those wishing to develop within the profession, courses and training in logistics, work environment, and system management are available.

• High school diploma: Programs in transportation, logistics, or trade (3 years)
• Certifications: Forklift licenses (A, B, and sometimes C)
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or internships during training
• Prerequisites: Often basic Swedish and mathematics, some computer skills
• Further education: Courses in logistics, IT systems, and work environment

Common benefits and compensations

Warehouse clerks are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, shift allowances, and irregular hours. Many employers offer wellness allowances, subsidized lunches or meal cards, and sometimes employee discounts and opportunities for further training. In some cases, work clothing and protective equipment are included as standard benefits.

Competition and challenges

The job market for warehouse clerks is characterized by high competition and a surplus of labor. According to the Employment Service forecast, job opportunities are limited, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Automation and digitalization have led to changing tasks and higher demands for technical skills. The increased pace and physical demands also pose challenges to the work environment, especially during shift work. For those looking to stand out, flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new routines and systems are important. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new systems and methods can enhance career prospects. Teamwork skills are also central, as much of the work is done in teams requiring effective communication with colleagues. Being service-minded and capable of handling customer contacts when needed is also a strength.

Tips for those who want to become a warehouse clerk

To succeed as a warehouse clerk, attention to detail and good organizational skills are beneficial, facilitating order picking and inventory management. Resilience under stress is important since the pace is often high, especially during busy periods like large deliveries. Flexibility and adaptability are highly valued, as tasks and routines can change quickly with new technological solutions. Good physical condition is an advantage since the work can be physically demanding and involve heavy lifts. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new systems and methods increases opportunities for advancement. Collaboration skills are also central, as much of the work is team-based and requires effective communication. Finally, being service-oriented and able to handle customer contacts when necessary is a strength.

Key facts about Warehouse Clerk

• Education level: High school diploma, often with specialization in logistics or trade
• Work environment: Warehouse facilities, often physically demanding with high pace
• Work form: Shift work is common, including day and evening shifts
• Demand: Limited opportunities, 412 job openings nationwide
• Special skills: Forklift license and IT skills are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After gaining some years of experience as a warehouse clerk, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, team leader, or logistics coordinator. Some choose to further their education in logistics or supply chain management to move into more administrative roles. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that demand for warehouse and terminal staff is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with high competition for jobs. Automation and digitalization may impact the need for traditional warehouse workers, but those combining experience with technical skills have better chances to develop and take on more qualified positions within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about Warehouse Clerk

• What is the average salary of a warehouse clerk?
  - The average salary for a warehouse clerk is 33 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a warehouse clerk?
  - High school education in logistics, trade, or transportation is most common. A forklift license is often required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 33 600 SEK and women 32 700 SEK, which means women earn 97% of what men do.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are limited and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for warehouse clerks?
  - The highest salary is 35,500 SEK and the lowest is 25,900 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• What tasks are included in the profession?
  - Tasks include order picking, loading and unloading, inventory, and handling warehouse systems.
• How many job openings are there for warehouse clerks?
  - There are 412 job openings nationwide.