Image of career: Freight, Stock, and Material Handler

Freight, Stock, and Material Handler

Overview

Freight, stock and material handlers assist in shipping or air transport docks to load and unload materials safely and efficiently.

Description

  • Move goods to and from transportation vessels.
  • Load and unload goods from transportation vessels using proper techniques and equipment.
  • Stack and organise materials in warehouses to maximise space safely.
  • Operate machinery like forklifts to lift and move heavy objects.
  • Follow Workplace Safety and Health practices to prevent accidents and injuries.

Entry requirements

  • You'll need minimally GCE 'N' Level qualification plus basic maths skills for inventory management and physical fitness to lift heavy objects.
  • Forklift operation certification and the completion of Workplace Safety and Health course is advantageous.

Salary

$3,100 – 4,200

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

At Tuas Mega Port, handlers now manage silent automated guided vehicles as "remote ops controllers," overseeing AI-aligned machinery instead of driving traditional forklifts.

What to expect

Be prepared for rotation in night or graveyard shifts; goods shipping operates around the clock, requiring flexibility in work hours.

Soft
skills

Problem-Solving

Able to identify and propose smart solutions to issues quickly.

Decision Making

Able to make quick, effective choices in situations.

Communication

Ability to share information clearly and well with team members and supervisors.

Knowledge of Using Machinery to Move Goods

Trained in operating machinery like forklifts and conveyor systems.

Knowledge of WSH Practices

Good understanding of safety protocols and procedures to minimise workplace hazards and prevent accidents.

Forklift Licence (Requires a Class 3 licence)

Possess certification for forklift operation and a Class 3 driving licence.

Hard
skills

Frequently asked questions

Not necessarily. With automation nowadays, most physical labour is handled by machinery like forklifts. Stamina is required however for long or overnight shifts.

Though machines do heavy lifting, people are still responsible for organising goods safely, like placing heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on higher shelves.

By organising materials by storage requirements and optimising storage space, they can find the best way to store materials.

They may face heavy physical demands from manual labour and are often exposed to extreme weather and temperature conditions during outdoor work.

Depending on the industry, they may be required to work overtime during peak delivery seasons and handle shift work including nights and weekends.