Shipping damage handler

What does a freight damage handler do? – Tasks and work environment

A freight damage handler is responsible for investigating, assessing, and settling damages that occur during the transportation of goods, both domestically and internationally. The role includes receiving damage reports, collecting documentation, analyzing causes of damage, and making assessments based on applicable insurance policies and agreements. The work often involves close contact with customers, transport companies, and insurance companies, requiring both communication skills and analytical thinking. The work environment is mainly office-based, and the pace can be high during major damage events or busy transport periods.

Salary development over time

Freight damage handlers have experienced stable and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,600 SEK per month, which increased to 41 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 600 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 10% over the three-year period. Factors driving this trend include increased demand for qualified claims adjusters, more complex transportation flows, and a growing need for specialized knowledge of international regulations. Although the profession is relatively small, digitalization and higher service demands continue to strengthen salaries over time.

Freight damage handler salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,900 SEK/month (woman, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 50,800 SEK/month (man, private employment, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 262 SEK
• Men's average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 42 300 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a freight damage handler, a high school diploma is usually required, often supplemented with post-secondary studies in areas such as logistics, law, or insurance. Practical experience from the transport or insurance industry is highly meritorious, as are certain certifications or relevant courses. Employers also value good ability to handle complex documentation and investigative work.

• High school diploma: Economics, law, or transport (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH training in logistics/transport or university studies (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in claims adjustment or insurance
• Internship: Meritorious experience in transport, logistics, or insurance
• Prerequisites: Good analytical and communicative skills

Common benefits and compensations

Freight damage handlers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. The possibility of remote work exists in some companies, as well as access to training and skills development. Other common benefits include subsidized lunches, insurance coverage, and collective agreement conditions.

Competition and challenges

The profession of freight damage handlers is characterized by relatively limited competition, as the number of positions is fewer compared to broader occupational groups. Since the tasks often require specialized knowledge in both transport and insurance, high demands are placed on education and experience. Digitalization and automated processes are changing the role, meaning handlers need to be flexible and continuously update their skills. Customers' increased demands for quick and accurate handling of damage cases add further pressure on efficiency and quality. The ability to handle stress and work systematically is crucial for success in the role.

Tips for those wanting to become a freight damage handler

To succeed as a freight damage handler, it is beneficial to develop strong analytical skills, as the profession requires quick assessment of complex damage cases and well-founded decision-making. Precision is essential, as every detail in documentation can affect the outcome for the customer and company. Gaining practical experience in logistics or insurance during studies, for example through internships or part-time jobs, is recommended. Excellent communication skills facilitate collaboration with customers, colleagues, and external parties. Staying updated on industry regulations and digital tools is an important success factor. Initiative and problem-solving abilities are valued by employers, especially in situations requiring quick decisions. Finally, a high level of service and empathy are important qualities, as many damage cases involve contact with people under pressure.

Key facts about freight damage handlers

• Education level: High school diploma + post-secondary studies are common
• Work environment: Office-based with digital tools
• Job market: 758 available jobs in 2024
• Typical employment: Full-time, daytime
• Gender distribution: Women earn 93% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a freight damage handler, opportunities for advancement include more specialized roles such as senior claims adjuster, team leader, or claims manager within larger insurance or logistics companies. Other career paths may include expert roles in international transport law or consultancy services for logistics firms. Projections from the Employment Service show that there is currently no precise assessment of future prospects for freight damage handlers, as the profession is part of a broader occupational group with varying demand. However, a total of 758 available jobs indicate ongoing demand for the skill set. The job market is influenced by economic cycles, digitalization, and changing transport patterns, which require continuous skills development to remain competitive.

Frequently asked questions about freight damage handlers

• What does a freight damage handler earn?
  - The average salary is 43 600 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a freight damage handler?
  - Usually, a high school diploma plus post-secondary studies in logistics, law, or insurance. Practical experience is highly advantageous.
• Are there differences between women's and men's salaries in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for freight damage handlers?
  - There are 758 available jobs according to current data, indicating strong demand.
• What do freight damage handlers do on a daily basis?
  - The role involves investigating, assessing, and settling damages to goods during transport, as well as managing contact with customers and partners.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for freight damage handlers?
  - The highest salary is 50,800 SEK and the lowest is 39,900 SEK, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• Do freight damage handlers mainly work in offices?
  - Yes, the work environment is mainly office-based but can sometimes include site visits during major damage incidents.