Material distributor

What does a material allocator do? – Tasks and work environment

A material allocator primarily works to ensure that the right materials and goods are in the right place at the right time within warehouses, terminals, or production. Tasks often include receiving, sorting, internal transport, and issuing materials, as well as administration and some documentation related to material flow. The work is usually carried out in warehouse facilities or terminal environments where collaboration with other warehouse staff, drivers, and production personnel is central. The work environment is often physically demanding and may involve heavy lifting, forklift operation, and shift work.

Salary development over time

The salary for material allocators has shown steady positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 32 100 SEK, representing an increase of about 3.5%. In 2024, the average salary further rose to 33 400 SEK per month, a further increase of approximately 4% from the previous year. This development can be explained by general wage adjustments within the industry, increased demand for logistics skills, and inflation compensation. Despite the positive salary trend, wage increases are relatively modest and reflect the competition and surplus present in the labor market for warehouse and terminal staff.

Material allocator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK
• Women: 32 700 SEK
• Men: 33 600 SEK
• Women’s share of men’s salary: 97 %

Education and qualifications

To work as a material allocator, a high school education with a focus on logistics, transportation, or industry is usually required. Practical experience from warehouses or production is often advantageous, and employers may require a forklift license or similar certification. Some employers offer internal training, while others value documented experience and the ability to work systematically.

• High school education: Focus on logistics, industry, or transportation (3 years)
• Forklift license: Often a requirement from employers
• Internship: Common during education or as an introduction
• Certifications: For forklift, lift, or safety
• Pre-requisites: Orderliness, accuracy, and physical capacity

Common benefits and compensations

Material allocators are often covered by collective agreements that provide entitlement to holiday pay, overtime pay, and sometimes bonuses for good performance. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, subsidized lunches, and employee discounts. Shift work may also include overtime premiums.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for material allocators is characterized nationally by a surplus of labor, which means that competition for jobs is relatively high. This is partly because the profession does not require extensive education and many seek employment in the warehouse and logistics industry. At the same time, increased demands are placed on digital competence and the ability to handle automated systems, which can be challenging for some applicants. The work environment can be physically demanding, especially during heavy lifting and monotonous tasks, with a high pace often in larger warehouses. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for those who are flexible, meticulous, and willing to further their education.

Tips for those wishing to become a material allocator

To succeed as a material allocator, it’s good to combine a sense of order with a positive attitude towards physical work. Being precise reduces the risk of errors in material flow and builds trust with employers, while good teamwork skills facilitate working in a team-oriented warehouse. Flexibility and adaptability are important qualities since tasks and procedures can change quickly when new technical solutions are introduced. Showing initiative and taking responsibility for a safe working environment are appreciated by colleagues and managers. It’s also wise to obtain necessary certifications, such as a forklift license, early on and stay updated on industry developments. For punctual, stress-resistant individuals who enjoy multitasking, there are good opportunities to advance within the field.

Key facts about Material Allocators

• Education level: High school education, often with logistics or transportation specialization
• Work environment: Warehouse, terminal, or production, often physically demanding
• Job openings in the profession: 412 (May 2024)
• Demand: Limited opportunities for new jobs, surplus of labor
• Common work arrangements: Shift work, full-time or hourly employment

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a material allocator, opportunities open to take greater responsibility, such as supervisor, warehouse coordinator, or logistics planner. With further education or experience, the path can also lead to roles within purchasing, logistics administration, or production technology. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for warehouse and terminal staff, demand for labor is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, and competition for jobs will stay high. Despite this, the industry is continuously digitalizing and becoming more efficient, which means that those who develop their skills in technology and logistics systems can have an advantage in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about Material Allocators

• What does a material allocator earn?
  - The average salary for a material allocator is 33 400 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 32 700 SEK while men earn 33 600 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a material allocator?
  - High school education with a focus on logistics, industry, or transportation is most common, often supplemented with a forklift license.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Job opportunities are limited and there is a surplus of labor, according to the Employment Service.
• What tasks are included?
  - Tasks include receiving, sorting, internal transport, and administration of material flows.
• What does a typical work environment look like?
  - Work mainly takes place in warehouses, terminals, or production environments and can be physically demanding.
• What career paths are available?
  - After a few years, it is common to advance to supervisor, warehouse coordinator, or further education within logistics.