Caretaker, railway

What does a freight handler within railway transport do? – Tasks and work environment

A freight handler within railway transport is responsible for monitoring, coordinating, and ensuring that freight flows at railway stations and along railway lines occur safely and efficiently. Tasks include planning and distributing freight cars, inspecting loading and unloading, and communicating with train drivers and other traffic controllers. The role also involves managing logistics systems, documenting transports, and sometimes performing basic technical checks of cars and cargo. The work environment is characterized by varying working hours, often shift work, and a lot of outdoor work or work near tracks, which requires good physical fitness and high safety awareness.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, wages for freight handlers within railway transport have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month, which rose to 39 000 SEK during 2023 and further to 40 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 8.4% during the period. Wage development has been influenced by increased demand for logistics services within the railway sector, changes in collective agreements, and a growing focus on safe and efficient transportation. The market has been characterized by balance, with demand and supply of skills relatively evenly distributed, reflected in stable wage growth.

Freight handler within railway transport salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK
• Women: 38 400 SEK/month (94% of men's salary)
• Men: 40 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and employer, but the national average is 40 200 SEK/month.

Education and qualifications

To work as a freight handler within railway transport, a high school education in transportation, logistics, or technology is usually required, supplemented with internal training and sometimes specific safety certificates for railway work. Practical experience in logistics or transportation is often advantageous, and many employers offer introductory programs or trainee positions for new hires.

• High school education: Transportation, logistics, or technology (3 years)
• Certifications: Safety training for railways, sometimes ADR/hazardous goods certificates
• Internship: Internships or traineeships with railway companies are common
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, safety awareness, and some technical understanding
• Tips: Interest in logistics and problem-solving facilitates career choice

Common benefits and compensations

Freight handlers within railway transport are often covered by collective agreements that include shift bonuses for evening and night work, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and occupational pensions. Many employers also offer wellness subsidies, work clothing, subsidized meals, and sometimes travel discounts for staff.

Competition and challenges

The job market for freight handlers within railway transport is characterized by a balance between supply and demand. There are moderate opportunities nationwide, meaning competition for positions is neither very fierce nor very low. Challenges in the profession include irregular working hours, high safety requirements, and the need for constant vigilance to minimize risks. Digitalization and automation in logistics also impose new demands on technical skills and adaptability. The physical work environment and weather conditions can influence the workday, requiring endurance and flexibility.

Tips for those who want to become a freight handler within railway transport

To succeed as a freight handler within railway transport, it is good to be detail-oriented and have a strong safety mindset, as the work often takes place in risky environments where small mistakes can have major consequences. Being communicative and easy to collaborate with facilitates contact with colleagues and external parties in daily logistics work. Flexibility and stress resilience are important qualities since tasks can vary quickly, and unexpected situations are common. A problem-solving attitude helps manage challenges and find effective solutions during disruptions in freight flow. Finally, showing interest in technology and digital systems is valuable, as these tools are increasingly important for planning and controlling railway transports.

Key facts about freight handlers within railway transport

• Education level: High school education with specialization in transportation/logistics
• Work environment: Shift work, often outdoors or near tracks
• Demand: Moderate opportunities nationwide
• Job openings: 412 within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Women earn 94% of men's salary

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years as a freight handler within railway transport, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as transportation supervisor, team leader, or specialist in logistics and safety. Some choose to further their education to become traffic controllers or take responsibility for larger projects within railway logistics. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for the profession is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, maintaining a balance between supply and demand. However, digitalization and increased efficiency requirements mean that IT and logistics system skills will become increasingly important for future career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about freight handlers within railway transport

• What does a freight handler within railway transport earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, region, and employer.
• What education is required to become a freight handler within railway transport?
  - High school education in transport or logistics, supplemented with safety training for railways.
• Are there differences in salary between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for freight handlers within railway transport?
  - There are moderate opportunities, with a total of 412 job openings reported within the profession.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Shift bonuses, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and occupational pension schemes are common benefits.
• What are the career paths within the profession?
  - After a few years, opportunities to advance to transportation supervisor, team leader, or specialist roles within logistics are available.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Attention to detail, safety awareness, teamwork skills, and stress resilience are particularly valuable qualities.