Freight, Stock and Material Handler

Freight, Stock and Material Handlers assist in shipping or air transport docks to load and unload materials.

Freight, Stock and Material Handler Job Description

Moving goods to and from the transportation vessel.

Load and unload goods from transportation vessels.

Stack and organise materials in warehouses.

Operate machinery to lift and move heavy objects.

Adhere to Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) practices.

Perform inventory controls and keep quality standards high for audits.

Prepare and complete orders for delivery or pickup according to schedule.

Use software tools to manage inventory and track goods through the supply chain.

Report any discrepancies or damages in freight to supervision immediately.

Note

Freight, Stock and Material Handlers are responsible for transporting the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines used by Singapore to combat COVID-19. Ground Handler SATS invested $1 million to purchase equipment.

What you should know about Freight, Stock and Material Handler jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

As Freight, Stock and Material Handlers, you are expected to handle heavy goods in warehouses and vehicles while ensuring workplace safety.

Key Advice

You need to be ready for rotation in night or graveyard shifts; goods shipping operates around the clock, requiring flexibility in work hours.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Minimally GCE 'N' Level qualification.

Basic proficiency in Mathematics for inventory management.

Physical fitness and the ability to lift heavy objects are required.

Forklift operation certification is highly desirable.

Must be able to work in various weather conditions and temperatures.

Certification in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is a plus, but not mandatory.

Completion of a Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) course is advantageous.

Flexibility to work shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Freight, Stock and Material Handler career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Knowledge of using machinery to move goods

Proficiency in operating machinery for efficient goods transportation.

Knowledge of WSH practices

Knowledgeable in safety protocols to minimise workplace hazards.

Forklift License (Requires a Class 3 license)

Certified for forklift operation necessitates a Class 3 driving licence.

Soft Skills

Problem-Solving

Ability to identify solutions to complex issues efficiently.

Decision Making

Skilled in making timely, effective choices.

Communication

Proficiency in exchanging information clearly and effectively.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is physical fitness required as Freight, Stock and Material Handlers?

Not necessarily. In the past, Freight, Stock and Material Handlers were expected to carry heavy goods without aid. However, with automation nowadays, most of the physical labour is handled by machinery like forklifts. It is beneficial, however, for individuals to have the stamina to manage long or overnight shifts effectively.
Is the job security of Freight, Stock and Material Handlers at risk due to automation?

No. Though some machines and robots do the heavy lifting, people are still necessary for this line of work. Freight, Stock and Material Handlers are still responsible for organising the goods in the safest way possible, such as shelving heavier goods at the bottom and lighter goods on higher shelves.

Automation has increased the efficiency of employees without eradicating the need for them.
How do Freight, Stock and Material Handlers find the best way to stack and organise materials?

By categorising materials by storage requirements and optimising storage space, Freight, Stock and Material Handlers can find the best way to store materials.
What challenges do Freight, Stock and Material Handlers face when loading and unloading materials?

Freight, Stock and Material Handlers can face heavy physical demands due to the manual labour required, and they are often exposed to extreme weather and temperature conditions.
What are the typical working hours like for Freight, Stock and Material Handlers?

Depending on the industry, Freight, Stock and Material Handlers may be required to work overtime during peak seasons for deliveries.