What is an order picker?

In brief

As Order picker you are the turbo behind every order. You assemble orders at lightning speed and accurately, so that customers get what they need - on time and tiptop. Meanwhile, you keep the warehouse tight and orderly.

What will you be doing as an Order Picker?

You are the route planner on the floor. With scanner or order list you collect products, check quantities/quality and prepare orders for shipping. You work with colleagues in logistics, forklift and shipping to keep everything running smoothly.

Typical tasks:

  • Picking orders with scanner or pick list
  • Checking for accuracy, numbers and damages
  • Sealing/labeling orders and moving them to the proper loading location
  • Record stock and discrepancies in the system
  • Leaving workplace and tools used tidy
  • Thinking along about smarter walking routes and process improvements

This you take with you

This role is all about overview, precision and working safely. These are the skills you need:

Pace + accuracy (quality above all else)
Eye for order and safety
Physically fit; a lot of walking/lifting is not a problem
Team spirit and clear communication
Flexible with hours (shifts/peak)
Basic with scanners/WMS learned quickly on the floor

This is what your workday looks like

You start planning, scan your first pick order and shoot into the warehouse. You smartly assemble according to routing, check products and get everything ready for shipping. An emergency in between? You switch gears. At the end of your shift, your area is tidy and the orders are tightly packed and ready for transport. Nice feeling.

Training and advancement

No lengthy training is required; intermediate vocational school level is fine and the rest you learn on the job. Useful (or obtainable through employer):

  • Basic safety (e.g.. VCA)
  • Certificates for lift/reach truck (plus)
  • Advancement opportunities towards all-round logistics, shipping, team lead or operator

Salary

As a starter, you will earn an average of €2,300 - €2,450 gross per month (21+, approx. €14.40 - €15 per hour). With shift bonuses or additional responsibilities, this could be higher.

Diploma

Not required. An MBO degree in logistics is nice to have, but motivation and commitment count just as much here.

Number of hours

Usually full-time (36-40 hours per week). Part-time is possible with some employers, depending on busyness/shifts.

Working Hours

Many order picking departments run in shifts (morning/afternoon/evening or nights). Day shift is also common. Allowances for irregular hours are common.

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Ready to pop?

Order picker

Do you like making meters, focus and teamwork? Then this is your job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need experience to get started?

No. Many companies train you internally. Can you work with pace and accuracy and are eager to learn with scanners? Then you will get far - fast.

You walk and lift a lot. With proper lifting technique and tools, it's doable. You also build fitness.

Not necessarily. Many employers have 2- or 3-shifts for continuity, but there are also day-shift teams. Shifts often provide surcharge on - nice for your wallet.

Startups are sitting around €2.300-€2.450. With experience/additions you will grow towards €2.600+. Additional certificates (lift/reach) help.

Consider all-round logistics employee, expedition/control, forklift/reach truck driver or even (assistant) team leader. Do you work neatly, quickly and reliably? Then doors will open.