In the world of warehousing and logistics, there's a group of workers who make sure the right products are packed into orders and leave the warehouse in excellent condition. These workers are known as order fillers or stockers. They keep warehouses moving with productive activity. If you’re considering work as an order filler, learn more about the ways these workers contribute to the efficiency of their work environments below.
The pulse of warehouse operations
Order fillers are central elements of warehouse operations. Their primary goal is to process, select, and pack items for customer orders. While this job might seem simple, it involves several tasks that help keep warehouses functioning properly and shipping out complete orders.
The efficient work of order fillers
Below are some of the many roles order fillers hold within their production environments.
- Setting everything up for delivery
Order fillers have their sights set on delivery. They gather products from various spots in the warehouse and arrange them for shipment. This will likely include shrink-wrapping breakable items prior to packing. They’re basically setting the stage for a smooth performance, saving time, and limiting any hiccups in the shipping process. - Mastering technology
In today's high-tech warehouses, order fillers need to be tech-savvy. They use many tools, such as handheld scanners, order management software, and automation systems. These tools help them keep an eye on inventory, find the best paths for retrieving items, and maintain precise records of orders. - Maintaining organization
In order to keep things moving, order fillers must be on top of inventory—stocking and restocking regularly. They must also ensure that assigned batch and inventory lists are accurate and are responsible for entering inventory information into warehouse or distribution center databases. - Making efficiency the name of the game
Order fillers are champions of efficiency. They’ve optimized their processes and mastered their flow. They’ve learned their way around the warehouse and know exactly where items are located or, at least, how to quickly find them. This dedication to keeping things moving at lightning speed means more orders are completed without wasting a second. - Never sacrificing quality and safety
Despite the need for speed, order fillers must always follow safety guidelines when pulling and packing items for shipment and using operational equipment. They also need to inspect all items for damage prior to packing for shipment.
The benefits of being an order filler
- High demand
Year after year, online shopping and the demand for ultra-fast delivery continues to grow, and so does the need for stockers and order fillers. In fact, these positions are among the top 10 in-demand jobs in the U.S.! - Low barrier to entry
Warehouse work is loved for its low entry points. You can begin with no qualifications and pick up skills as you work. No technical skills and no degree are required (some employers do require a high school diploma). This makes it perfect for people who want to begin a new career, yet without any knowledge, training, or qualifications. - Good pay
Though there are wide regional differences, the median hourly wage for order fillers in the 2024 is $18.71 as per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is an attractive wage, particularly given the low entry barriers. In addition, during busy seasons there are likely to be chances to work overtime and make more money. - Flexible hours
Warehouse work would be the ideal job for you if you are looking for a job with flexible hours. Most warehouses operate on a 24-hour basis, giving you lots of options to fit your lifestyle.
Fulfilling the role of order filler
In the bustling warehouse environment, order fillers bring accuracy and efficiency to the production process. Their knack for quickly picking items from shelves and carefully placing them with the right orders is a win-win for everyone.
If you have the attention to detail needed to assess orders and maintain inventory records, and a positive, can-do attitude, you’ll enjoy warehouse life. As an order filler, each and every customer is counting on you to deliver the package they’ve been waiting for.
Working with Manpower
When you choose Manpower as your staffing firm, you get a talent agent who cares about your present job as well as your future career. While you’re on the job, you’ll have full access to the Manpower MyPath program, a vast collection of resources to prepare you for the next step in your career. You can brush up on your skills, earn a GED, gain certifications, even work toward a bachelor’s degree.
Take the first step by applying for a job near you!
