Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand
Manually move freight, stock, luggage, or other materials, or perform other general labor. Includes all manual laborers not elsewhere classified.
SOC: 53-7062.00
Common Job Titles
Laborer
Loader
Material Handler
Warehouse Worker
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform manual handling and moving of freight, stock, and materials in warehouse, shipping, or industrial settings, often under time constraints.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize work tasks and prioritize material movement activities to meet production schedules and shipping deadlines independently.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply public safety and security procedures when handling materials in compliance with workplace regulations and hazard protocols.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate material handling equipment including forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks following safety protocols in loading dock and warehouse environments.
Developing
Hands-onExecute inspection of equipment, structures, and materials for damage or defects during loading and unloading operations to ensure quality standards.
Developing
MindsetEngage in coordination with supervisors, peers, and team members to facilitate efficient workflow and resolve logistical challenges.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret work orders, shipping labels, and inventory documentation to accurately identify, sort, and route materials to designated locations.
Developing
Hands-onPerform general physical activities including lifting, carrying, and positioning materials adhering to ergonomic practices and weight capacity limits.
Developing
KnowledgeMonitor processes, materials, and surroundings for safety hazards and operational issues in fast-paced warehouse or distribution environments.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate quantifiable characteristics of products such as weight, dimensions, and volume to optimize load configurations and storage space utilization.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate basic hand and power tools including hammers, saws, and banding machines for securing loads and performing minor maintenance tasks.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in training and team-building activities to support skill development and maintain collaborative work relationships.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
2,982,530
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $30,810. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,410. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,940. 75th percentile: U.S. $46,370. 90th percentile: U.S. $53,180. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$30,810
10% of workers earn the following or more
$53,180
Workers on average earn
$41,420
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Administration and Management3.4/5
Customer and Personal Service3.4/5
Public Safety and Security3.2/5
Transportation3.1/5
Production and Processing3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
