How Do I Become a Freight Handler?

Freight handlers are unskilled laborers who are responsible for the movement of goods to and from production facilities and transportation facilities. These workers must often perform various heavy lifting duties, and they may be responsible for using computer systems to track freight. In order to become a freight handler, you will need to be in good physical health and may be required to pass a physical examination. Otherwise, the qualifications to become a freight handler are fairly minimal; you may not even need a high school diploma in order to get a job, but you will need some basic math and communications skills.

The best way to become a freight handler is to look for open positions and apply for them. Search for jobs offered by freight companies, warehouses and factories, and even airlines or train transportation companies. You may need to have additional qualifications if you want to work in the airline or train industries, so be sure to do a bit of research to find out what the minimum qualifications of these jobs are. Generally, you will not need any special training or licenses to become a freight handler, and if such licenses or training are necessary, they can usually be completed after you are hired.

Make sure you have reliable transportation to get you to and from your job, as you will be expected to show up on time every day. This may mean taking advantage of public transportation or maintaining your own personal vehicle. Think carefully about your means of transportation when choosing a job; you may need to become a freight handler for a company that is close enough to your home that you can walk, bike, or take public transportation to and from the business.

You can improve your chances of getting a job by earning special licenses such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) or even a forklift operator's license. These certifications will make you more valuable as a job candidate, though you will need to pay the licensing costs out of pocket. In some cases, you may be able to get these licenses or certifications after you–– become a freight handler, which may improve your chances of getting a promotion. In some cases, the company that hires you may even pay for the licensing or certification processes, though this is not always guaranteed. If you are just starting out, it may be beneficial to get such licenses first so you can land your first job more easily.