Packer
Packers work in factories and warehouses, putting products into containers like boxes, crates and bottles to be sent out for delivery.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a packer, you could:
- pack and label bulk products
- check samples for damaged goods and breakages
- seal packaging with tape, glue or shrink wrap
- move goods to storage areas, using a powered pallet or forklift truck
- pick and pack items listed on customer order sheets
- use hand-held scanners to track stock
- load goods into vans and lorries ready for delivery
- complete documentation and records
Working environment
You could work in a factory or in a warehouse.
Your working environment may be cool and physically active.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a packing team supervisor or shift leader.
With further training, you could work in:
- quality control
- production line maintenance
- stock control
- staff development
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- the ability to work well with others
- concentration skills
- the ability to work on your own
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to work well with your hands
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- customer service skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
You may be able to apply for a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, such as:
- Supply Chain Warehouse Operative
- Food and Drink Process Operator
- Express Delivery Sortation Hub Operative
You can do these with retail, warehouse distribution and manufacturing companies. They normally take around 1 year to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
More Information
You can apply directly for jobs. Employers often advertise vacancies for temporary staff and seasonal workers through recruitment agencies, which could lead to a permanent job.
There are no set qualifications to work as a packer, though basic computer skills would be useful for using online ordering systems and stock control scanners.
You may have to take an assessment to check your practical skills before being offered a job.
Experience in packing, bottling, order picking or warehouse work can be helpful.
Career tips
You might find it useful for some jobs if you've done forklift training, though employers may put you through this after you start work with them.
Further information
You can find more details about working in packing and warehousing from Generation Logistics.
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This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.