Warehouse clerk

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

A warehouse clerk is responsible for administration related to the flow of goods in a warehouse or terminal. Tasks include receiving and registering incoming goods, order management, inventory, and documentation of warehouse status. The role often involves contact with carriers, suppliers, and internal departments to ensure smooth logistics. The work environment combines office tasks with proximity to warehouse operations, involving both digital systems and physical activities. The pace can be high during peak delivery times, and accuracy is crucial to avoid errors in handling goods.

Salary development over time

The salary of a warehouse clerk has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, which increased to 32 100 SEK in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 shows an average salary of 33 400 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.7% over the three-year period. This salary growth can partly be explained by increased demand for logistics skills in e-commerce and process efficiency improvements. Despite some oversupply in the job market, employers in certain regions have chosen to raise wages to retain experienced staff. Gender pay gaps remain, with women earning 97% of men's salaries.

Warehouse clerk salary – a comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, low education)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 33 600 SEK, women 32 700 SEK (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Variations exist depending on labor market and industry structure, but exact data is lacking

Education and qualifications

To work as a warehouse clerk, a high school diploma is generally required, preferably with a focus on trade, administration, or logistics. Practical experience from warehouse work or administrative roles is advantageous. Knowledge of IT systems and digital logistics management is increasingly important, and some employers require forklift licenses or similar certifications.

• High school education: Trade and administration programs or equivalent
• Certificates: Forklift license and ADR certification can be advantageous
• Internship: Workplace training during high school or as a trainee
• IT skills: Experience with enterprise systems, warehouse management systems, and Office suite
• Additional courses: Logistics, work environment, and safety

Common benefits and compensation

Warehouse clerks are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and insurance. Flexitime or shift work is common, along with staff discounts and subsidized lunches at some workplaces. Training and further development in digital systems are also frequently provided to meet labor market demands.

Competition and challenges

The job market for warehouse clerks is characterized by high competition and a certain oversupply of labor nationwide. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are limited, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Efficiency improvements and automation in warehouse operations may impact the need for administrative staff. At the same time, digitalization increases the demand for technical skills and adaptability. Combining administrative skills with an understanding of logistics flows is a clear competitive advantage.

Tips for those wanting to become a warehouse clerk

To succeed as a warehouse clerk, it is good to combine accuracy with a structured working method, as administration requires precision in documentation and order handling. Being service-oriented and possessing good communication skills facilitates cooperation with colleagues and external contacts. Flexibility is an important trait, as tasks can vary depending on season and business needs. Keeping up-to-date with new IT systems and warehouse processes provides a competitive edge, as does the ability to solve problems quickly when they arise. Engagement and responsibility are appreciated by employers, especially in larger warehouses with complex flows. Finally, taking initiatives for further education or extra courses in logistics and administration is valuable.

Key facts about Warehouse Clerk

• Education level: High school diploma, preferably with logistics or trade specialization
• Work environment: Combination of office and warehouse, high pace during peak times
• Work arrangements: Full-time, part-time, and hourly employment are common
• Demand: Limited opportunities nationwide, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Job openings: 412 advertised within the warehouse and terminal staff profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a warehouse clerk, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as warehouse administrator, logistics coordinator, or supervisor within warehouse operations. Some choose to further their education and specialize in supply chain management or logistics planning. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand for warehouse and terminal staff is expected to remain unchanged over five years, with limited job opportunities and an oversupply of labor. Digitalization and automation influence the profession's development, and those investing in further education in IT and logistics have better prospects for future career advancement.

Frequently asked questions about Warehouse Clerk

• What does a Warehouse Clerk earn?
  - The average salary is 33 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and education.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 32 700 SEK while men earn 33 600 SEK per month, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a warehouse clerk?
  - High school education in trade, administration, or logistics is recommended, along with experience in warehouse work and IT systems.
• Are there many job openings for warehouse clerks?
  - There are 412 job postings within the warehouse and terminal staff profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Job opportunities are limited nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, insurances, and sometimes staff discounts and training in new systems.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salaries may vary depending on the labor market and industry structure, but exact data is lacking.