| Detail | For this role |
|---|---|
| Department | Logistics and Warehousing |
| Level | Entry level |
| Reports to | Warehouse Supervisor |
| Direct reports | None |
| Experience | Fresher or up to 2 years in loading or manual warehouse work |
Loader job description template
Copy this job description, replace the text in square brackets and post it on your careers page or a job portal.
Job title: Loader
Department: Logistics and Warehousing
Reports to: Warehouse Supervisor
Location: [City], [office, branch or site]
About the role
A Loader does the physical work of loading and unloading goods from vehicles and moving them within a warehouse or dock. They stack goods correctly, use trolleys and pallet jacks, tally counts, and keep the area clear. It is demanding manual work that keeps the whole operation moving. A good Loader works safely and at a steady pace, handles goods without damage, loads vehicles so nothing shifts in transit, and counts accurately so what leaves matches the paperwork.
Key responsibilities
- Load and unload goods from trucks and vans by hand or with trolleys and pallet jacks.
- Stack and arrange goods correctly so loads are stable and space is used well.
- Move goods between the dock, storage and dispatch areas as directed.
- Tally and count items during loading and unloading and report any mismatch.
- Handle goods carefully so packaging and products are not damaged.
- Follow safe lifting technique and use the right equipment for heavy loads.
- Keep the loading area, aisles and dock clear and clean during the shift.
- Report damaged goods, shortages or unsafe conditions to the supervisor.
Requirements
- Physically fit for lifting and standing work
- Able to count and read basic labels
- Class 5 pass or above
- Fresher or up to 2 years in loading or manual warehouse work
KRAs and KPIs for a Loader
Key result areas for the appraisal form, each with a KPI you can measure every month or quarter.
| Key result area | How to measure it |
|---|---|
| Loading output | Vehicles loaded and unloaded within the target time |
| Goods condition | Handling damage kept below the agreed level |
| Count accuracy | Loaded and unloaded counts matching the paperwork with zero errors |
| Safety | Zero avoidable injuries with safe lifting practices followed |
| Housekeeping | Dock and loading area kept clear and clean through the shift |
Skills and tools
Tools used day to day: Hand trolley, Pallet jack, Sack barrow, Safety gloves and shoes, Tally sheet.
Reporting line and career path
Interview questions for a Loader
- How do you lift heavy items safely without hurting your back?
- How do you load a truck so the goods do not shift during transit?
- What do you do if the count does not match the paperwork?
- How do you keep working safely with vehicles moving around the dock?
- How do you handle fragile goods during loading and unloading?
Managing a Loader in ZeniaHR
Hire and manage your logistics and warehousing team in one place
Post the role, onboard the new hire, and track attendance, leave and KRAs in ZeniaHR. Free for your first 50 employees.
Book a free demoSee pricingFrequently asked questions
What does a Loader do?
A Loader loads and unloads goods from vehicles and moves them within a warehouse or dock. They stack goods correctly, use trolleys and pallet jacks, tally counts, and keep the area clear. It is demanding manual work that keeps the operation moving. Loaders handle goods carefully, load vehicles safely, and count accurately against the paperwork.
What skills does a Loader need?
A Loader needs physical stamina, safe lifting technique, and the ability to stack goods so loads stay stable in transit. They should count and tally accurately, use trolleys and pallet jacks, and work as part of a team at a steady pace. Care with goods and awareness of dock safety are essential.
What is the difference between a Loader and a Forklift Operator?
A Loader handles goods mainly by hand and with trolleys, doing the physical loading and stacking. A Forklift Operator uses a forklift or reach truck to move heavy pallets and stack high racks, and needs a licence to do so. Many loaders train up to become forklift operators over time.