Packer, manual

What does a packare do – manual work and work environment

A manual packare primarily works with packing goods, products, or components for further transport or sale. Tasks include sorting, inspecting, and packing items by hand, often on a conveyor belt or at specialized workstations. Precision and pace are key requirements, as careful handling and packing the correct amount in each package are essential. The work is usually carried out in warehouses, factories, or distribution centers where the environment can be noisy and physically demanding. Shift work and heavy lifting are common, requiring good physical fitness and endurance for those working as packare.

Wage development over time

The salary for manual packare has shown a clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,200 SEK per month, rising to 30 300 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average monthly salary has increased further to 31 400 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 11% over the period, slightly above the general wage trend for similar industrial jobs. The wage increase can partly be explained by a greater focus on work environment and physically demanding tasks, as well as adjustments for inflation. Women still earn lower average wages than men, and although the gap has narrowed somewhat over time, differences remain. Demand for manual packare has been relatively stable, but competition for jobs has increased alongside some automation in the industry.

Manual packare salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 31 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 35,800 SEK/month (male, public sector, 3-year high school education)
• Hourly wage: 189 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 30 500 SEK (95% of men’s 31 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on sector and region, with higher wages in the public sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a manual packare, usually no formal education beyond high school is required. A general high school diploma is common, and many employers offer internal training. Practical experience from warehousing or industry is advantageous, as well as good physical fitness and the ability to work quickly and accurately. Courses in work environment and ergonomics can be beneficial for preventing work-related injuries.

• High school education: 2–3 years, focusing on industry, warehousing, or logistics
• Internal training: Common among employers
• Internship or traineeship: Occur, especially for youth and newcomers
• Courses in work environment/ergonomics: Recommended for sustainable work
• No formal prerequisites: But good physical fitness and accuracy are highly valued

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for manual packare include shift allowances for night work, compensation for evening and weekend work, and wellness contributions. Many employers also provide work clothing, ergonomic aids, and subsidized lunches or coffee. Some workplaces have collective agreements granting extra vacation days and occupational pension schemes.

Competition and challenges

Competition for jobs as a manual packare is currently high, meaning there is an oversupply of applicants compared to available positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but automation and technological development could impact the need for manual packare in the longer term. Physically demanding tasks and monotonous work can also pose challenges for workers in the profession. To stand out on the job market, experience in logistics, warehousing, or production, along with good teamwork and stress resilience, are advantageous. Despite the competition, there are still vacancies, especially in larger cities and during periods of high seasonal demand.

Tips for those wanting to become a manual packare

To succeed as a manual packare, it is good to be precise and organized, reducing errors and ensuring efficient workflow. Physical endurance is a great asset, especially since the work often involves repetitive movements and heavy lifting at times. Flexibility is appreciated by employers because tasks can vary with seasons or production volume. Teamwork skills are important, and a positive attitude facilitates shift work and stressful periods. Showing engagement and willingness to learn new tasks can lead to more responsibility and development opportunities. Following safety routines carefully is also wise to avoid injuries. Finally, basic computer skills can be beneficial, as digital order systems are increasingly common in the industry.

Key facts about manual packare

• Salary range: 30,100–35,800 SEK/month
• Education level: High school (2–3 years) most common
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often in warehouses or factories
• Demand: Limited job prospects, 1,437 vacancies nationwide
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 95% of men’s salary

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years as a manual packare, there may be opportunities to advance to supervisor, team leader, or instructor roles within production or warehousing. Some choose further education in logistics, machine operation, or other industrial roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, future prospects are somewhat limited, with few job opportunities and an oversupply of applicants. Over five years, demand is expected to stay the same, meaning competition may remain high. Broadening skills in logistics or taking on more responsibility can be crucial for advancement. Automation and digitalization may also open new avenues for those interested in technology and system management.

Frequently asked questions about manual packare

• What does a manual packare earn?
  - The average salary is 31 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and region.
• Is special education required to become a packare?
  - Usually, a high school diploma and internal training suffice, but experience from warehousing or industry is advantageous.
• What workplace hazards are associated with the profession?
  - Physically heavy lifting and repetitive movements can lead to strain injuries, so ergonomics are important.
• Are there many job openings for packare?
  - There are 1437 vacancies nationwide, but competition is high.
• What is the gender distribution in the profession?
  - Women earn on average 30 500 SEK and men 31 900 SEK, meaning women earn 95% of men's wages.
• What career paths are available after a few years?
  - Opportunities include progressing to team leader, supervisor, or further education within logistics and production.
• How does automation impact the profession?
  - Automation may reduce the need for manual packare in the long term, but demand remains during peak seasons and for special tasks.