Warehouse Jobs in the UK

Typical warehouse roles include picker, packer, warehouse operative, goods in and despatch operative, stock controller and loader. Pickers collect items for orders, often using a handheld scanner. Packers check, pack and label orders ready for delivery. With experience and training you can become a forklift or reach truck driver, team leader, shift manager or inventory controller.

Warehouses often run around the clock, so shifts can be days, nights, evenings or weekends, and some use four-on, four-off patterns. Night and weekend shifts sometimes come with a higher hourly rate. Both temporary roles through agencies and permanent contracts are common, and temporary work often leads to a permanent job.

The work is active. You will be on your feet for most of the shift, walking, lifting and bending, so a reasonable level of fitness helps. Employers provide health and safety training and protective equipment such as safety boots and high-visibility clothing. Forklift roles require a recognised licence, such as RTITB or AITT, although some employers will train you.

If you are applying for your first warehouse job, mention any experience of physical work, working to targets or following safety rules, even from outside a warehouse. Being punctual and reliable is especially important because warehouse teams depend on everyone turning up for their shift, and good attendance often leads to permanent contracts and promotions.

Check the location and shift pattern in each advert, as many warehouses are in industrial estates and distribution parks that are easiest to reach by car. Create a free JobsChance account, upload your CV and apply for warehouse jobs in minutes.