Order picker, truck driver

What does an order picker, forklift driver do? – Tasks and work environment

An order picker, forklift driver primarily handles and transports goods in warehouses and terminals. Common tasks include picking items according to orders, loading and unloading goods, and operating various types of forklifts – such as counterbalance and reach trucks. The work is often carried out in large warehouse facilities where the pace can be high and good organization is required to ensure correct deliveries. The work environment can vary depending on the season and the size of the workplace, but often involves shift work and sometimes heavy lifting. Safety routines and accuracy are central to the profession, as forklift driving demands skill and responsibility.

Salary development over time

The salary for order pickers, forklift drivers has shown a stable and positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,700 SEK per month, which increased to 33 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, wages continued to rise to 36 000 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 10% over the three-year period. This development reflects a growing demand for logistics services and skilled forklift drivers, especially as e-commerce has expanded and the logistics sector has grown. Salary increases can also be attributed to the labor market's need for experienced and certified personnel, as well as improved working conditions and agreements. Although the pay gap between genders is relatively small, some differences exist but are minor compared to many other professions.

Order picker, forklift driver salary – full overview

• Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,700 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 216 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 35 600 SEK, men 36 100 SEK – women earn 99% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Highest recorded salary in regional sector; variations may occur depending on workplace and region

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an order picker, forklift driver is often practical and usually requires no extensive formal education. The most common is a high school diploma, preferably with a focus on warehousing and logistics, along with a forklift license that proves completion of necessary forklift training. Practical experience and an introduction at the workplace are also important for quick integration into the role. For some employers, additional certifications or previous warehouse experience may be advantageous.

• High school diploma: Focus on transport, warehousing, or logistics
• Forklift license: Mandatory for forklift operation (A and/or B certification)
• Internship or introduction: Common upon employment
• Courses/certificates: Additional training for specific forklift types may be required
• Experience: Prior warehouse or logistics experience is advantageous

Common benefits and compensation

Order pickers, forklift drivers are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes employee discounts. Some employers also provide insurance, pension contributions, and opportunities for bonuses based on performance. The extent of benefits varies depending on the employer and collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an order picker, forklift driver is generally moderate, due to the constant demand within the logistics and transportation industry. Challenges in the profession can include physically demanding tasks, monotonous work routines, and shift work that can affect lifestyle. The work environment requires high concentration and safety awareness, especially when operating forklifts in tight spaces or handling heavy loads. Technological changes and automation may influence the profession over time, but the need for experienced forklift drivers remains as long as manual tasks are necessary. Therefore, flexibility and willingness to learn new methods are important.

Tips for those who want to become an order picker, forklift driver

To succeed as an order picker, forklift driver, it is good to be detail-oriented and organized, as precision in order picking reduces errors. Flexibility is an important trait since tasks can vary daily and shift work is common. Good physical condition facilitates heavy lifting and long workdays on the warehouse floor, so maintaining health is beneficial. The ability to quickly understand new instructions and a technical curiosity make it easier to adapt to new warehouse management systems and automated processes. Communication skills and teamwork are valued, as the work often involves collaboration where coordination is crucial for efficiency and safety. Investing in a forklift license increases employment chances and allows working with different types of machinery. Finally, showing initiative and being solution-oriented, especially when facing logistical challenges, is advantageous.

Key facts about order pickers, forklift drivers

• Salary range: 31,700–36,400 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: High school diploma and forklift license
• Work environment: Warehouses, logistics centers, or terminals – often shift work
• Demand: 412 available jobs in Sweden
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as an order picker, forklift driver, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, warehouse manager, or logistics coordinator. Further education in warehouse management, logistics, or distribution can open doors to more qualified positions within the industry. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that there is currently no precise assessment of future prospects for the profession due to limited data, but the industry is strongly influenced by the growth of e-commerce and changes within the logistics sector. There are good employment opportunities, especially for those who are flexible and willing to work shifts. The number of available jobs in the profession is currently 412, indicating continued demand for skilled forklift drivers.

Frequently asked questions about order pickers, forklift drivers

• What is the average salary for an order picker, forklift driver?
  - The average salary is 36 000 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an order picker, forklift driver?
  - High school diploma and forklift license are common requirements, sometimes internal training is sufficient.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - No, women earn 99% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the work environment like for order pickers, forklift drivers?
  - The work environment is often physically demanding and involves working in warehouses or terminals, often with shift work.
• How many job openings are available for order pickers, forklift drivers?
  - There are 412 available jobs in Sweden.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 36,400 SEK/month and the lowest is 31,700 SEK/month.
• What are the career opportunities after a few years?
  - You can advance to supervisor, warehouse manager, or further education within logistics.