Description

The shipping clerk forms a part of the distribution team of a company and is the person who is the first person to interact with products that are delivered to a retail store. The shipping clerk assists in directing trucks to delivery bays in a store. Once the truck has been in its parking spot, an invoice should typically be signed by the clerk of shipping in order to confirm the receipt of the shipment. the invoice should also be reviewed to determine if the entire truck's contents need to be removed or just a small portion. If only a small portion of the contents need to be removed then the shipping clerk has to communicate this information to team members in order to ensure that only the correct items are removed. The shipping clerk will then work with team members to take the contents off the truck and then move all the inventory to the initial storage area.

After the inventory has been placed stored in the storage area initially An inventory is conducted to make sure that the correct items (in the correct quantity) were shipped. Any deviations are recorded and the manager will determines which items should be stored in a longer-term storage and which items are placed on shelves in the store. The team's shipping clerks start opening packages and unpacking items in preparation for placing them on shelves. A storage clerk records that the package was received by the software for shipping used by the company and also record any deviations from the original order or the shipping invoice. The clerks who handle shipping place the merchandise in storage for a long time and begin to fill the shelves of the store.

The positions of shipping clerks might require a high school degree or equivalent. Experience in shipping similar to that of shipping clerks may be a plus.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Shipping Clerk with 3-6 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

  • Manage shipping documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements. Prepare, review, and maintain shipping records, invoices, and customs paperwork.
  • Coordinate the scheduling and tracking of shipments, ensuring timely and efficient delivery. Communicate with shipping companies, suppliers, and customers to coordinate pickup, transit, and delivery schedules.
  • Handle import and export processes, including customs declarations and documentation. Liaise with customs officers, freight forwarders, and other relevant parties to ensure compliance with customs regulations.
  • Resolve shipping issues and provide excellent customer service.

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

Customer Service

2

Fulfillment & Shipping

3

Shipping Allotment

Career Prospects

The role of a Shipping Clerk is essential in ensuring smooth logistics operations. For professionals with 3-6 years of experience in the United Kingdom, there are several alternative roles to consider within the industry. Here are following options worth exploring:

  • Logistics Coordinator: A position that involves overseeing the transportation and distribution of goods, coordinating with suppliers and carriers, and ensuring timely delivery.
  • Warehouse Supervisor: A role focused on managing inventory, maintaining warehouse operations, and optimizing space utilization to streamline logistics processes.
  • Customs Compliance Specialist: A position specializing in ensuring compliance with import/export regulations, managing documentation, and liaising with customs authorities.
  • Supply Chain Analyst: A role that involves analyzing data, forecasting demand, optimizing supply chain processes, and identifying opportunities for cost reductions and efficiency improvements.

How to Learn

The projected growth of the Shipping Clerk role in the United Kingdom job market is expected to be steady in the coming years. Over a 10-year analysis, employment opportunities for Shipping Clerks are anticipated to increase moderately, reflecting the ongoing demand for efficient shipping and logistics operations. With the rising prominence of e-commerce and global trade, the need for skilled Shipping Clerks is likely to persist. While specific employment figures are unavailable, various sources indicate that the evolving nature of the industry will continue to offer stable job prospects for this role in the future.