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What does a Varumottagare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Varumottagare mainly works with receiving, inspecting, and registering goods arriving at warehouses, terminals, or stores. Tasks often include verifying deliveries against delivery notes, handling returns, sorting and placing goods correctly, and using digital systems for inventory and documentation. The work is typically carried out in warehouse facilities or terminal environments where the pace can be high, and the physical environment requires accuracy and good physical condition. Contact with transporters and colleagues is a natural part of the workday, as well as operating forklifts or other equipment for moving goods.

Salary development over time

The salary for Varumottagare has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, rising to 32 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 400 SEK in 2024. The total increase over this period is approximately 7.7%, which is slightly above the average for similar professions. The increase can be explained by an increased focus on logistics and goods flow in trade, as well as some labor shortages during the pandemic, although the situation has now stabilized. Despite this development, future salary increases are expected to be modest, as demand for the profession is forecasted to remain unchanged according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.

Varumottagare salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, ≥3 years post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK
• Women’s salary as a percentage of men’s: 97%
• Regional differences: Slight variation, but larger cities may offer slightly higher salaries

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Varumottagare often goes through high school programs in transportation or commerce, but entry is also possible through internships or work experience. Formal educational requirements are rarely strict, but a forklift license and familiarity with warehouse management systems are often advantageous. For some employers, post-secondary courses in logistics or supply chain management can be beneficial.

• High school education: Trade and administration programs or transportation programs (3 years)
• Forklift training: Often a requirement for forklift licenses (A and B)
• Internships: On-the-job training during education is common
• Certifications: Courses in work environment and safety may be advantageous
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and attention to detail are highly valued
• Tips for choosing: Interest in logistics and organization helps

Common benefits and compensations

Varumottagare often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness contributions. Many employers also offer staff discounts, evening and weekend work supplements, and opportunities for further training within logistics. In some cases, work clothes and subsidized lunches are included.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Varumottagare is considered relatively high nationally, with an oversupply of applicants compared to available jobs. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts indicate that demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, meaning limited opportunities for increased demand. A challenge is that digitization and automation of warehouse processes may reduce the need for manual labor, while technical skills requirements increase. Physical strain and monotonous tasks are other factors to consider, especially in larger warehouses with high pace.

Tips for those who want to become a Varumottagare

To succeed as a Varumottagare, it is good to combine accuracy with a structured work approach, as many tasks require attention to detail and organizational skills. Stress resilience is an important trait, especially since workload can vary greatly during the day and during large deliveries. Being service-minded and able to collaborate effectively with colleagues and transporters makes the job smoother and contributes to a positive work environment. Flexibility facilitates quick adjustments to delivery flows, and technical interest is an advantage since digital systems and forklifts are everyday tools. Taking the initiative to learn new routines and showing engagement is often appreciated by employers and can open opportunities for greater responsibility at the workplace.

Key facts about Varumottagare

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Salary range: 25,900–35,500 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: High school diploma, often forklift license
• Work environment: Warehouse and terminal environment, often physical work
• Future outlook: Limited job prospects, demand expected to be unchanged

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a Varumottagare, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as warehouse manager, supervisor, or logistics coordinator. Further education in logistics or supply chain management can open doors to administrative roles or specialized assignments within larger companies. However, the Swedish Public Employment Service’s assessment indicates that demand for warehouse and terminal staff is expected to remain unchanged over five years, and competition for positions is relatively high, making further education and technical skills crucial for career development. For those open to further specialization or working in larger warehouses, opportunities may also exist to work with automation systems or as trainers for new employees.

Common questions about Varumottagare

• What does a Varumottagare earn?
  - The average salary is 33 400 SEK per month, but it varies between 25,900 and 35,500 SEK depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a Varumottagare?
  - Usually, a high school diploma and forklift license are required. Internships and warehouse experience are advantageous.
• What is the working environment like for a Varumottagare?
  - The work mainly takes place in warehouses or terminals and involves physical work and working at a high pace.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for a Varumottagare?
  - According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities are limited and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, stress resilience, and teamwork skills are important qualities to thrive and succeed as a Varumottagare.
• Are there opportunities for further education or career development?
  - Yes, further training in logistics and experience can lead to more responsibility and new roles within warehousing and logistics.