What is a FedEx package handler? (duties, pay, it’s a tough job + more)
If you’re looking for a new job that offers stability, decent pay, and the opportunity to exercise during your shifts, look no further than the package handler job at FedEx.
FedEx package handlers are responsible for scanning packages as they arrive and leave the facility.
They also transfer packages from one destination to another. To learn everything you need to know about this position, read on.
What will FedEx’s package handlers be in 2022?
FedEx package handlers are responsible for sorting and delivering packages correctly, scanning labels to ensure proper tracking of packages, and loading packages onto FedEx vehicles. The job is physically demanding, requiring employees to lift and carry packages weighing up to 75 pounds. Part-time and full-time positions available. Wages range from $17.14 to $18.51 an hour.
As a package handler for FedEx, there’s a lot more to know, so be sure to read the entire article!
What are the responsibilities of a FedEx package handler?
FedEx package handlers have many responsibilities. However, the main goal is to ensure that the package is sent to the correct destination.
To that end, here are some responsibilities that package handlers manage on a daily basis:
- Sort and route packages correctly
- Verify shipping information such as address, weight, and contents on the package
- Scan packages for tracking
- Maintain package inventory, including picking items from shelves and placing them on pallets for shipping
- Loading packages onto conveyor belts or other equipment used to move packages within the facility
- Perform basic maintenance on equipment such as conveyor belts, forklifts, and scanners
- Load and unload packages from FedEx vehicles
- store the package
- Work with management to resolve any security related issues
What are the working hours for FedEx package handlers?
FedEx package handlers can work part-time or full-time.
Part-time employees typically work one shift per day. Shift times vary by facility and may be 4 to 6 hours.
Part-time employees are guaranteed a minimum of 17.5 hours per week, regardless of the length of the shift.
Full-time employees work two shifts a day. This works about 8 to 10 hours a day.
Like part-time employees, full-time employees have a minimum number of hours per week. In this case, a minimum of 35 hours per week is required.
Still, most full-time employees have a lot more than that, especially during busy times. In fact, overtime is common during the holiday season.
Part-time and full-time package handlers can work almost any time of the day or night.
Typically, night shifts run from 10:30 pm to 4:00 am.
Next, the morning shift runs from 4:30 am to 9:00 am, the day shift runs from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and the afternoon shift runs from 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm.
What are the requirements to become a FedEx package handler?
While package handlers are considered entry-level FedEx employees, potential employees still need to meet many requirements.
These include:
- At least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or GED
- Ability to pass physical assessment
- Able to lift 75 pounds multiple times a day
- Ability to reach overhead, squat and walk throughout the shift
- Communicate effectively in noisy environments
In education, candidates with technical or vocational degrees may have a slight advantage over candidates without technical or vocational degrees.
Still, FedEx may help employees continue their education, earn certificates or licenses to increase their earning potential.
In terms of training and experience, it doesn’t take much.
Instead, most training is done on the job, including learning how to use the company’s software and technology and how to load/unload trucks.
How Much Do FedEx Package Handlers Make?
On average, package handlers earn between $17.14 and $18.51 an hour.
Wages can increase significantly with experience and time at work. It is also common to offer $20 or more per hour if the location is in dire need of staff.
In addition to base pay, employees can receive productivity-related bonuses during peak seasons. Full-time employees can get 401Ks, paid time off, and health insurance.
What does it take to work as a package handler at FedEx?
To become a FedEx package handler, you need to have several skills.
The first is physical strength. More specifically, it means being able to sustain prolonged physical activity, including carrying, lifting, and loading packages.
The second is attention to detail. This skill is important for package handlers as it ensures that packages are delivered to their intended destination on time.
Likewise, package handlers should be aware of safety regulations.
This means knowing all the procedures in the workplace, how to operate machinery, how to handle heavy loads, and how to handle hazardous materials.
Is it hard to be a package handler at FedEx?
Based on anecdotal evidence from current FedEx package handlers, the job is certainly not for the faint of heart.
Instead, it’s a physically demanding job. Not only do employees move, move and load packages all day, but they also have to deal with tight deadlines and stressful situations.
To learn more, you can also read our post on FedEx Sorting Facility, Are FedEx Packages Insured, FedEx Says Delivered But No Packages.
in conclusion
Finding a job as a package handler at FedEx is fairly easy as it requires little education, training or skills. Combined with an hourly salary of about $17, this makes it an attractive role for many.
It’s important to remember, though, that this job is no mean feat. It requires a lot of physical strength and stamina, as well as the ability to work effectively under pressure.
