Goods recipient

What does a goods receiver do? – Tasks and work environment

A goods receiver primarily works with receiving, inspecting, and registering incoming goods at warehouses, terminals, or companies within manufacturing and trade. Tasks include verifying deliveries against orders, handling transport documents, sorting and organizing goods, and sometimes operating forklifts or other equipment to move goods. The role requires accuracy, attention to detail, and often good physical condition since heavy lifting may be involved. The work environment is often logistics-oriented, such as in warehouse facilities, loading docks, or distribution centers, where the pace can be high at times, and teamwork is essential for smooth logistics flow.

Salary development over time

Goods receivers have experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 32 100 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 33 400 SEK per month, representing a total increase of approximately 7.7% over three years. This trend reflects both general wage negotiations within collective agreements and an increased focus on working conditions in the logistics sector. However, the salary growth has been slightly lower than in some other professions, partly due to a surplus of labor and relatively low educational thresholds. Gender pay gaps still exist, although the gap has narrowed somewhat as awareness of equality issues has increased within the industry.

Goods receiver salary – a complete overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK
• Women: 32 700 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men: 33 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur between counties and employers, with metropolitan areas often offering slightly higher wages than smaller towns.

Education and qualifications

To work as a goods receiver, usually no longer formal education is required, but high school education with a focus on trade, logistics, or vehicles provides good prerequisites. Many employers value practical experience, and some require a forklift license or other specialized skills. Personal qualities such as accuracy, responsibility, and teamwork are often highly valued during recruitment.

• High school education: Trade and administration programs, Vehicle and transport programs (3 years)
• Forklift license: Often required for the position, obtainable through shorter courses
• Internship: Commonly arranged through high school or work placements
• Introductory training: Often on-site at the employer
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish language skills in speaking and writing, basic computer skills

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for goods receivers include overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes employee discounts and subsidized meals. Some employers also offer bonus programs linked to productivity or safety, as well as access to training and skill development in logistics and safety.

Competition and challenges

The job market for goods receivers is characterized by a surplus of labor, which means competition for jobs can be tough, especially in regions with many applicants and limited positions. According to national forecasts, demand for this profession is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, so the number of new positions is not expected to grow significantly. Digitalization and automation of warehouse management increase demands for technical skills and flexibility. The physical work environment, heavy lifting, and high pace can also pose occupational health challenges requiring resilience and good work organization.

Tips for those who want to become a goods receiver

To succeed as a goods receiver, it is good to have a sense of order and be detail-oriented, which facilitates inspection and registration of goods. Being able to handle stress is a big advantage, as the pace can be high during busy delivery periods. Social skills and teamwork make it easier to work efficiently with drivers and colleagues. An interest in technology helps when managing digital warehouse systems, and good physical condition is important to handle the physical tasks. Flexibility is appreciated by employers, as tasks can vary from day to day. Last but not least, a sense of responsibility is crucial to ensure that the correct goods are received and handled safely.

Key facts about Goods Receivers

• Education level: High school education, often with a focus on logistics
• Work environment: Warehouses, terminals, or distribution centers
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time and shift work are common
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, surplus of labor nationally
• Special skills: Forklift license, computer skills, good language skills

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a goods receiver, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as warehouse manager, supervisor, or logistics coordinator, especially for those demonstrating leadership and good organizational skills. Some choose to further their education in logistics or transportation planning, which can open doors to more qualified positions. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for warehouse and terminal staff, the job market is stable but with limited opportunities for new jobs, and a certain surplus of labor is expected to remain. Despite this, there are continuously available positions – currently, 412 jobs are advertised within this profession, indicating some turnover and mobility in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about Goods Receivers

• What is the average salary of a goods receiver?
  - A goods receiver has an average salary of 33 400 SEK per month.
• What are the requirements to become a goods receiver?
  - High school education with relevant specialization, forklift license, and some computer skills are recommended.
• Are there salary differences between men and women as goods receivers?
  - Yes, women earn 97% of what men do; the average salary for women is 32 700 SEK and for men 33 600 SEK.
• What does the job market look like for goods receivers?
  - There is a surplus of labor and limited opportunities for new jobs nationally.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years as a goods receiver?
  - It is common to progress to roles such as warehouse manager, supervisor, or logistics coordinator.
• What is the hourly wage for a goods receiver?
  - The average hourly wage is 201 SEK.
• What education is most common among goods receivers?
  - High school education with a focus on trade, logistics, or vehicles is most common.