A UPS package handler is responsible for sorting, organizing, and delivering packages for one of the world’s largest global package delivery companies.
In this article, we will explore the duties and responsibilities of a UPS package handler, the job requirements and skills needed, and the salary and job outlook for this role. We will also discuss the work environment of a UPS package handler and the advancement prospects for this position.
Whether you’re considering applying for a job as a UPS package handler or simply want to learn more about this role, this article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of what it’s like to work as a package handler for UPS.
UPS Package Handler Job Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of a UPS package handler may vary depending on the specific location and the organization’s needs. However, some common responsibilities for this role may include the following:
- Sorting and organizing packages: As a package handler, you will be responsible for sorting and organizing packages according to specific guidelines and using various sorting equipment.
- Loading and unloading packages: You will also be responsible for loading and unloading packages onto and off of delivery trucks, using proper lifting techniques to prevent injury.
- Delivering packages: Depending on the specific location and the needs of the organization, you may be responsible for delivering packages to businesses and residential locations.
- Providing excellent customer service: As a package handler, you will be responsible for interacting with customers and providing excellent customer service, including answering questions and addressing any issues or concerns.
- Maintaining a safe and clean work environment: You will be responsible for maintaining a safe and clean work environment, including following all relevant safety guidelines and procedures.
- Performing other duties as assigned: Depending on the specific location and the needs of the organization, you may be responsible for performing other duties as assigned, such as performing inventory management tasks or assisting with training new employees.
UPS Package Handler Job Requirements
The job requirements for a UPS package handler may vary depending on the specific location and the needs of the organization. However, some common requirements for this role may include the following:
- Physical ability to lift, lower and slide packages that typically weigh 25-35 lbs. and may weigh up to 70 lbs.
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Willingness to work flexible shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Must have a valid driver’s license, if you want to apply for a driver’s helper position
Education, training, and experience requirements vary depending on the location and specific position you are applying for. Some positions may require a high school diploma or GED, while others may not have any specific educational requirements.
Certifications and licenses are not typically required for a package handler position at UPS. However, having a forklift certification or other relevant experience may increase your chances of being hired.
UPS Package Handler Skills
Some of the required job skills for a UPS package handler position may include the following:
- Physical stamina: As a package handler, you will be required to stand for long periods of time and perform a variety of physical tasks, including lifting, carrying, and moving packages. Physical stamina is essential for success in this role.
- Attention to safety: UPS places a strong emphasis on safety, and package handlers are required to follow all relevant safety guidelines and procedures, including those related to handling packages and using sorting equipment.
- Attention to detail: A UPS package handler is responsible for accurately sorting and organizing packages according to specific guidelines, so attention to detail is crucial for success in this role.
- Ability to work as part of a team: As a UPS package handler, you will be part of a larger team and will be expected to work collaboratively with your colleagues.
- Flexibility: A UPS package handler may be required to work a variety of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. The ability to be flexible and adapt to changing schedules is important.
- Basic math skills: Basic math skills are important for a UPS package handler, as you may be required to handle money and make change.
- Strong communication skills: As a UPS package handler, you will be interacting with customers and colleagues on a regular basis, so strong communication skills are essential for success in this role.
- Time management skills: A UPS package handler is responsible for sorting, organizing, and delivering a high volume of packages, so strong time management skills are important in order to meet deadlines and complete tasks efficiently.
Related: Time management interview questions and answers
UPS Package Handler Salary
The salary and job outlook for a UPS package handler position can vary depending on a number of factors, including the specific location, the individual’s level of experience and education, and the needs of the organization. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median hourly wage for material moving machine operators, which includes package handlers is $17.78. However, it’s worth noting that this figure includes package handlers at all companies, not just UPS.
As for the job outlook, the BLS projects that employment for material moving machine operators, including package handlers, will grow by 4% from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. However, it’s worth noting that this figure includes package handlers at all companies, not just UPS.
It’s a good idea to research the specific job market in your area to get a more accurate picture of the salary and job outlook for a UPS package handler position.
UPS Package Handler Work Environment
The work environment of a UPS package handler can vary depending on the specific location and the needs of the organization. However, some common characteristics of this work environment may include the following:
- Fast-paced: As a UPS package handler, you will be working in a fast-paced environment, sorting and organizing a high volume of packages in a short amount of time.
- Physical work: This role involves a significant amount of physical work, including lifting, carrying, and moving packages.
- Warehouse setting: Many UPS package handlers work in a warehouse setting, where packages are sorted and organized before being loaded onto delivery trucks.
- Shift work: A UPS package handler may be required to work a variety of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Team environment: As a UPS package handler, you will be part of a larger team and will be expected to work collaboratively with your colleagues.
- Safety-focused: UPS places a strong emphasis on safety, and package handlers are required to follow all relevant safety guidelines and procedures in order to prevent injuries.
- Noise and vibration: The work environment of a UPS package handler may be noisy and may involve exposure to vibration from sorting equipment.
- Temperature fluctuations: The work environment of a UPS package handler may involve exposure to temperature fluctuations, depending on the specific location and the time of year.
Trends
Some of the latest trends in the field of package handling may include:
- Increased automation: One trend in the field of package handling is the increasing use of automation and technology to sort, organize, and deliver packages. This may involve the use of robots, conveyor belts, and other automated sorting equipment.
- Demand for efficient and cost-effective delivery: As online shopping continues to grow, there is an increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective package delivery. UPS and other package delivery companies are focusing on developing new technologies and strategies to meet this demand.
- Emphasis on sustainability: Another trend in the field of package handling is an increasing focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. This may involve initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, use eco-friendly packaging materials, and adopt more sustainable delivery practices.
- Growth in e-commerce: The growth in e-commerce is driving an increase in the demand for package handling and delivery services. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years as more and more consumers turn to online shopping.
- Increased use of drones: Another trend in the field of package handling is the increasing use of drones for delivery. This technology is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way packages are delivered in the future.
How to Become a UPS Package Handler
If you’re interested in becoming a UPS package handler, here are some steps you can take:
- Meet the minimum age requirement: UPS typically requires package handlers to be at least 18 years old.
- Check for open positions: You can check for open positions as a UPS package handler on the UPS Careers website or by contacting a local UPS facility.
- Submit an application: If you find an open position that you’re interested in, you can submit an application online or in person at a local UPS facility.
- Attend an interview: If your application is selected, you may be invited to attend an interview with a UPS representative. This may be an in-person interview or a virtual interview, depending on the specific location and the needs of the organization.
- Complete any required training: If you’re offered a position as a UPS package handler, you may be required to complete some form of training before starting work. This may involve online training or on-the-job training with a mentor.
- Start working: Once you’ve completed any required training, you can begin working as a UPS package handler.
It’s worth noting that the specific hiring process for a UPS package handler may vary depending on the specific location and the needs of the organization. It’s a good idea to research the specific hiring process for the location where you’re interested in working.
Advancement Prospects
Advancement prospects for a UPS package handler may vary depending on the specific location and the needs of the organization. However, some potential advancement opportunities for this role may include:
- Promotion to a supervisory role: With experience and a demonstrated track record of success as a package handler, you may be considered for a promotion to a supervisory role, such as a lead package handler or a supervisor.
- Transfer to a different department: You may have the opportunity to transfer to a different department within UPS, such as the transportation department or the sales department.
- Further education and training: UPS often provides opportunities for employees to pursue further education and training, which can lead to advancement in your current role or a new role within the organization.
- Pursue a different role within the company: With experience and a demonstrated track record of success, you may have the opportunity to pursue a different role within UPS, such as a delivery driver or a customer service representative.
It’s worth noting that advancement prospects for a UPS package handler may vary depending on a number of factors, including the individual’s level of experience, education, and skills, as well as the needs of the organization. It’s a good idea to discuss your career goals with your supervisor or HR representative better to understand the potential advancement opportunities available to you.
Related: UPS Interview Questions & Answers
UPS Package Handler Job Description Example
Here is an example job description for a UPS package handler position:
Title: Package Handler
Location: [City, State]
Job Description:
We are seeking a reliable and hardworking individual to join our team as a package handler. In this role, you will be responsible for sorting, organizing, and delivering packages for one of the largest global package delivery companies in the world. You will be part of a larger team and will be expected to work collaboratively with your colleagues to ensure that packages are delivered on time and to the correct location.
Key responsibilities:
- Sort and organize packages according to specific guidelines and using various sorting equipment
- Load and unload packages onto and off of delivery trucks, using proper lifting techniques to prevent injury
- Deliver packages to businesses and residential locations as needed
- Interact with customers and provide excellent customer service, including answering questions and addressing any issues or concerns
- Maintain a safe and clean work environment, following all relevant safety guidelines and procedures
- Perform other duties as assigned, such as performing inventory management tasks or assisting with training new employees
Job requirements:
- Minimum age of 18
- Physical stamina, able to stand for long periods of time and perform a variety of physical tasks, including lifting, carrying, and moving packages
- Attention to safety, able to follow all relevant safety guidelines and procedures, including those related to handling packages and using sorting equipment
- Attention to detail, able to accurately sort and organize packages according to specific guidelines
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Flexibility, able to adapt to changing schedules and work a variety of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Valid driver’s license, as needed
- Basic math skills, able to handle money and make change
- Strong communication skills
- Time management skills, able to meet deadlines and complete tasks efficiently
We offer competitive pay and benefits, as well as opportunities for advancement within the company. If you are a reliable and hardworking individual with a strong work ethic, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
