Description

A shipping clerk is part of a company's distribution team and is the individual who first interacts with merchandise that reaches a store. The shipping clerk helps direct truck drivers to the shipping bays of a store. After the truck is parked, an invoice must usually be signed by the shipping clerk to verify receipt of the shipment; the invoice must also be consulted to determine if the entirety of the truck's contents should be unloaded or only a portion. If only a portion of the contents are to be unloaded, the shipping clerk must pass this information along to team members to ensure that only the right merchandise is removed. The shipping clerk then works with team members to unpack the truck and move the new inventory into an initial storage space.

Once the inventory is in the initial storage space, an inventory is performed to ensure that the right products (in the right quantity) were delivered. Any deviations are noted, and a manager then indicate which merchandise must be placed in longer-term storage and which go on store shelves. Some of the team's shipping clerks begin opening packages and unpacking products to prepare them for stocking on shelves. Another storage clerk record that the shipment was received in the company's shipping software; they also note any deviations from the order or shipping invoice. Then, the shipping clerks place merchandise in long-term storage and start to stock the store’s shelves.

Shipping clerk positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Similar experience in shipping may be preferred.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Shipping Clerk with 0-3 years of experience in Singapore, your main responsibilities include:

  • Process and prepare shipping documents, ensuring accuracy and compliance with international regulations. This involves preparing and verifying invoices, packing lists, and shipping labels.
  • Coordinate with carriers to schedule pickups, deliveries, and shipments, ensuring timely and efficient transportation. This encompasses communicating with logistics providers, arranging transportation, and tracking shipments.
  • Monitor inventory levels and update records to ensure accurate stock management. This entails maintaining inventory databases, conducting regular stock checks, and reconciling discrepancies.
  • Assist in resolving shipping issues and customer inquiries, providing exceptional service and support.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Shipping Clerk job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Excellent attention to detail to ensure accurate and efficient processing of shipping documents, including invoices, bills of lading, and customs forms.
  • Proficient computer skills, including knowledge of shipping software and Microsoft Office Suite, to effectively manage tracking and reporting of shipments.
  • Strong organizational abilities to prioritize tasks, coordinate logistics, and maintain records of inventory, ensuring smooth and timely delivery of goods.
  • Effective communication skills to liaise with carriers, suppliers, and internal teams, resolving any shipping issues and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Essential Skills For Shipping Clerk

1

Transportation Planning

2

Fulfillment & Shipping

3

Transportation Management

4

Document Management

5

Shipping Allotment

Career Prospects

For a Shipping Clerk with 0-3 years of experience in Singapore, there are alternative roles to explore within the industry. Here are following options to consider:

  • Logistics Coordinator: A role that involves coordinating and monitoring the flow of goods, ensuring timely deliveries, and managing inventory levels.
  • Customs Clearance Specialist: A position focused on handling customs documentation and compliance, ensuring smooth import and export processes, and resolving any related issues.
  • Warehouse Supervisor: A role that involves overseeing warehouse operations, including receiving, storage, and distribution of goods, as well as managing a team of warehouse staff.
  • Supply Chain Assistant: A position focused on supporting the supply chain management process, including procurement, inventory control, and demand planning.

How to Learn

The shipping clerk role in Singapore is expected to witness steady growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, this job has seen an increase in demand and is projected to continue growing in the future. With Singapore being a major global trade hub, the shipping industry is thriving, leading to a rise in employment opportunities for shipping clerks. As global trade continues to expand, the need for efficient logistics and shipping processes increases, creating a positive outlook for this job role. The employment opportunities in this field are expected to be plentiful in the coming years.