This post explores the UPS package handler job description; what they do, including their key tasks, duties, and responsibilities.
It also covers information about the requirements you may need to meet to be offered the job of a package handler at the UPS Company or other similar organizations.
What Does the UPS Package Handler Do?
The UPS package handler job description involves sorting and organizing parcels based on their intended destinations before loading them onto delivery vans.
They handle things with extreme caution and ensure their security at all times.
UPS package handler have the authority to make decisions regarding the placement and delivery of packages, subject to the strict scrutiny of their supervisor.
The package handler works in teams, which are headed by a senior package handler.
They load packages onto delivery vans, secure them and coordinate their movement between warehouses and distribution centers all across the country.
UPS package handlers are responsible for making sure that everything is done right and according to plan every time they undertake any activity related to parcel handling operations or provide services.
This involves carefully analyzing information provided by other departments within the company and doing things accordingly, while keeping an eye on anything that might compromise their security.
They provide their expertise to other departments within the company and are able to quickly learn new things.
His/her duties also involve transporting packages and pallets of various sizes, up and down steps, and across long distances by use of hand trucks or carts.
UPS package handlers also must be well-versed in operating manual material handling equipment.
They are familiar with the location of items they need on a daily basis, e.g., supplies, operations manuals and charts that help them understand their tasks better.
Being constantly updated with changing procedures is also a key responsibility in their job descriptions.
UPS package handlers are responsible for managing their time effectively and enforce the policies and procedures of the company.
They also respond to requests from other departments and perform other related duties as necessary.
More on UPS Package Handler Job Description
UPS package handlers are expected to know everything there is to know about the packages they handle and how they should be delivered in times of emergency.
They should also have an eye on the parcels they handle, report any missing ones, or those that appear damaged or are leaking any foul-smelling liquids, and supply enough information so that the appropriate actions can be taken by their superiors.
UPS package handlers’ work environment is very hectic and the job is a team effort where package handlers work in different locations but will occasionally be working in teams.
They interact with people of various levels and receive information from other departments that they must promptly relay to the appropriate people.
Package handlers at UPS are expected to deliver parcels within a stipulated time frame, ensure that they are handled gently, load them on a delivery van or cart and then make sure they reach their destinations without any damage or leakage of harmful liquids.
At times, it may involve simple tasks such as cleansing pallets or hand cleaning material and putting them onto transport carts.
They work in various locations, performing duties such as sorting, loading, and unloading packages, pallets, and other materials.
It is also their duty to know the location of all items they need on a daily basis and check their progress frequently.
The package handler work description also involves making sure that everything is done right and according to plan every time they undertake any activity related to parcel handling operations or provide services.
This involves carefully analyzing information provided by other departments within the company and doing things accordingly, while keeping an eye on anything that might compromise their security.
Additional Information on UPS Package Handler Job Description
UPS package handlers are also responsible for organizing parcels and pallets that they receive at a particular location, examine them thoroughly and prepare reports detailing the condition of each one they finished sorting.
They also ensure that handling equipment is ready when needed and perform other specified duties.
Package handlers are required to work indoors or outdoors in all types of weather conditions to ensure the security of parcels and material that come into contact with their hands.
They must be willing to travel great distances by foot, driving forklifts, or riding bicycles for on-site deliveries, to get where they need to be as quickly as possible.
UPS package handlers are not expected to give out their own personal information without authorization, and they must be prepared to follow the rules and procedures of the company when handling parcels.
They must have a keen eye for the safety of parcels and materials they handle, including pallets, tools, and equipment.
Package handlers who work in certain areas of the country may be required to wear protective clothing, such as hard hats, coveralls, or masks at all times.
They are also required to complete certain training related to their job duties.
UPS Package Handler Job Description Example/Sample/Template
The UPS package handler’s job description consists of the following duties, tasks, and responsibilities:
- Utilizes “hand-to-surface” techniques when handling parcels
- Scans, reads, and assigns the carton for proper grouping
- Loads packages into the delivery area and moves them onto conveyor belts, trucks, or pallets
- Handles packages as they move through the facility to a receiving dock
- Assists in loading and unloading trucks at customer’s premises
- Adheres to corporate policies to the letter (safety, security, uniform, package handling)
- Sets up and maintains a neat working environment
- Detects package information errors, flaws, and any inconsistencies
- Works with other warehouse employees to ensure job efficiency.
UPS Package Handler Job Description for Resume
If you are working currently for UPS as a package handler or have worked at the company before in that role and are making a new resume or CV, you can apply the above sample UPS package handler job description in making the professional experience part of the resume.
This section of the resume tells the recruiter/employer that you have been successful performing the UPS package handler’s role, which can greatly influence them to call you up for an interview, especially if the new job that you are seeking requires individuals with some experience working as a package handler.
UPS Package Handler Job Requirements: Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills for a Successful Career
If you are seeking a package handler’s job with the UPS Company or with other companies in the same industry, here are major requirements you may be expected to meet to be hired:
- Height: 5′ 4″ to 5′ 10″
- Weight: 135 lb. to 165 lb.
- Minimum age requirement: 17 and 21 years respectively
- Have a valid driver’s license
- Possess ability to lift items of 75 lbs or more.
- Able to walk up and down stairs and balance while doing so
- Possess ability to read a tape measure
- Able to count
- Have good decision making skills
- Possess mental concentration for long periods of time when dealing with numbers and reading precise measurements from high volumes of parcels being shipped throughout the day
- Able to deal with diverse personalities of customers who contact you regarding their shipment status etc. The position requires the candidate to be able to resolve conflicts between customers and company policy, while ensuring customers are satisfied at all times
- Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to work effectively alone and when under pressure
- Possess excellent listening skills and be able to follow instructions from others; wear comfortable shoes, such as running shoes, that are suitable for walking long distances day after day
- Have good communication skills with the ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively in English when not speaking Cantonese
- Can handle stressful situations in a calm manner (under pressure) by remaining neat and tidy
UPS Package Handler Salary
According to the website, Glassdoor, the salary of the average package handler at UPS is $28,000 to $$36,660 per year based on the area for which they are applying.
Conclusion
As a UPS package handler, you needed to be able to work under pressure, have excellent listening skills and good decision making skills.
In addition, you are required to follow instructions from those around you while wearing comfortable shoes suitable for walking long distances.
Moreover, it is important that the candidate be able to deal with diverse personalities of customers who were unsure about their shipment status, and also to resolve conflicts between customers and company policy in order for them not to lose their satisfaction.
This post is helpful to individuals interested in the package handler career with UPS or similar companies who want to learn the job they do.
It is also useful to recruiters/employers in the same industry as UPS who are looking to hire competent individuals for the package handler role.
They can apply the UPS package handler job description sample above in making a detailed description for the position for use in their hiring process.