Warehouse assistant

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

Warehouse clerks work with receiving, storing, and picking goods in various types of storage facilities. Typical tasks include accepting deliveries, checking and registering goods, as well as picking and packing items for dispatch. The profession often involves working with forklifts and other warehouse tools. The work environment is usually physical and can involve heavy lifting and working in different temperatures, depending on the warehouse's focus. Organization, accuracy, and the ability to work efficiently are central qualities in the role of a warehouse clerk.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for warehouse clerks has shown a steady but clear increase. In 2022, the average salary was 29800 SEK per month, rising to 31 900 SEK in 2023 and remaining at the same level in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 7% from 2022 to 2023, but the growth has plateaued since then. The significant rise can largely be explained by increased demand for warehouse staff as e-commerce has grown and logistics sectors have expanded. The stagnation in salary increases last year may be due to a saturated market and salaries approaching industry averages. Despite this, demand remains high and the job market for the profession is stable.

Warehouse clerk salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (female), 31,500 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 56,700 SEK/month (male), 31,400 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 192 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of men's salary (women 31,200 SEK, men 32 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and labor market, but generally differences are moderate.

Education and qualifications

To work as a warehouse clerk, no formal higher education is usually required, although high school education with a focus on logistics or trade is advantageous. Many employers offer introductory or internal training at the workplace. Experience with forklift operation and good knowledge of Swedish are often desirable, especially for larger warehouses and logistics companies.

• High school education: Business and administration programs or equivalent (3 years)
• Forklift license: Usually required, can be obtained via shorter courses (1–5 days)
• Practical training: Practical components occur during education or as introduction at the workplace
• Language skills: Good Swedish required, English often advantageous
• Pre-skills: Precision and responsibility are highly valued

Common benefits and compensations

Warehouse clerks are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and overtime pay for evening and weekend work. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for overtime compensation and employee discounts. For shift workers, extra compensation for unsocial hours is often available.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs as a warehouse clerk is generally low due to high demand in the logistics and transportation sectors. At the same time, there is a paradoxical situation where some employers experience recruitment difficulties, especially when it comes to finding personnel with the right experience and education. The job can be physically demanding, and the work environment varies, requiring good health and endurance. High staff turnover and part-time employment are common, which can create some insecurity but also provide opportunities for flexible working hours. Efficiency and resilience to stress are important qualities for success in the role.

Tips for those who want to become a warehouse clerk

To succeed as a warehouse clerk, it is beneficial to have a good work ethic and be able to take responsibility for your tasks. Accuracy is crucial, as errors in handling goods can have significant consequences for the business. Flexibility is also important, as tasks can vary day to day and the pace is often high. Showing initiative and quickly familiarizing yourself with new routines or technical systems is advantageous. Physical endurance makes the work easier, as it often involves heavy lifting and long shifts. Social skills and teamwork contribute to a good work environment, especially in larger warehouses where collaboration is essential. A tip is to take the opportunity for extra work or internships to get a foot in the industry and build experience during or after high school.

Key facts about warehouse clerks

• Educational level: High school education recommended, forklift license often required
• Work environment: Physical, often shift work and fast-paced
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment, 412 available jobs in the profession
• Common employment form: Full-time, but part-time and hourly employment also occurs
• Gender distribution: Both men and women work as warehouse clerks, but some salary differences exist

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a warehouse clerk, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, warehouse manager, or logistics coordinator. For those who want to develop within the industry, further education in logistics, transportation, or leadership can open doors to more qualified positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities remain significant in both the short and long term, with stable demand expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. The high turnover in the profession means there are often available positions, and technological development creates new career paths in automation and digital logistics. Work experience, technical skills, and leadership qualities are highly valued by employers.

Frequently asked questions about warehouse clerks

• What is the average salary of a warehouse clerk?
  - The average salary for a warehouse clerk is 31 900 SEK per month.
• How do gender differences in salary look?
  - Women earn 31,200 SEK, which corresponds to 98% of men's salary (32 000 SEK).
• What education is required to become a warehouse clerk?
  - High school education and forklift license are recommended, but many employers offer internal training.
• How is the job market for warehouse clerks?
  - Opportunities for employment are plentiful, with 412 available jobs in the profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a warehouse clerk?
  - The highest salary is 56,700 SEK (male), 31,400 SEK (female). The lowest salary is 31,500 SEK (male), 31,200 SEK (female).
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, it is possible to advance to supervisor, warehouse manager, or further education within logistics.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work is physical, often shift-based, and can involve heavy lifting and working in various temperatures.