In this article, we’ll look at the best practices for onboarding your new Shipping Clerk. We’ll look at the employee onboarding process/steps you can add to your own reusable Shipping Clerk checklist.
Need help with onboarding new Logistics team members? See the templates and resources we recommend for successful onboarding experiences.
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Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Shipping Clerk starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Logistics onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Shipping Clerk, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Shipping Clerk onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.
1. Orientation: The shipping clerk attends an orientation session to familiarize themselves with the company’s policies, procedures, and culture. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated onboarding specialist.
2. Introduction to Team: The shipping clerk is introduced to their immediate team members, including supervisors, colleagues, and other relevant personnel. This task is usually performed by the supervisor or team leader.
3. Workspace Setup: The shipping clerk’s workspace is set up, including providing them with a desk, computer, necessary software, and any other tools or equipment required for their role. This task is typically performed by the IT department or office administration.
4. Training on Shipping Systems: The shipping clerk receives training on the company’s shipping systems, such as order management software, tracking systems, and any other tools used for shipping and logistics. This task is usually performed by a designated trainer or a senior shipping clerk.
5. Familiarization with Shipping Procedures: The shipping clerk is provided with detailed information about the company’s shipping procedures, including how to process orders, pack shipments, generate shipping labels, and handle any special requirements or regulations. This task is typically performed by a senior shipping clerk or supervisor.
6. Understanding Safety Protocols: The shipping clerk is trained on safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment. This includes knowledge of proper lifting techniques, handling hazardous materials, and emergency response procedures. This task is usually performed by the company’s safety officer or a designated trainer.
7. Introduction to Inventory Management: The shipping clerk is introduced to the company’s inventory management system and processes. They learn how to track inventory levels, conduct stock counts, and manage stock discrepancies. This task is typically performed by a senior shipping clerk or inventory manager.
8. Familiarization with Shipping Documentation: The shipping clerk is trained on the various shipping documents used in the industry, such as bills of lading, customs forms, and shipping manifests. They learn how to accurately complete and file these documents. This task is usually performed by a senior shipping clerk or supervisor.
9. Understanding Customer Service Expectations: The shipping clerk is educated on the company’s customer service standards and expectations. They learn how to handle customer inquiries, resolve shipping-related issues, and provide excellent service. This task is typically performed by a customer service manager or supervisor.
10. Introduction to Quality Control: The shipping clerk is introduced to the company’s quality control processes, including how to inspect shipments for accuracy, identify damaged goods, and ensure proper packaging. This task is usually performed by a quality control manager or supervisor.
11. Cross-Training Opportunities: The shipping clerk is provided with opportunities for cross-training in other areas of the logistics department, such as receiving, inventory control, or transportation. This task is typically coordinated by the shipping supervisor or logistics manager.
12. Performance Expectations and Feedback: The shipping clerk is informed about the company’s performance expectations, including productivity targets, accuracy rates, and any other key performance indicators. They are also informed about the feedback and evaluation process. This task is typically performed by the shipping supervisor or human resources department.
13. Introduction to Company Policies and Benefits: The shipping clerk is provided with information about the company’s policies, including attendance, time off, and dress code. They are also informed about the employee benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and employee assistance programs. This task is typically performed by the human resources department.
14. Introduction to Company Culture and Values: The shipping clerk is introduced to the company’s culture and values, including its mission, vision, and core principles. They learn about the company’s commitment to teamwork, integrity, and customer satisfaction. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated company representative.
15. Ongoing Support and Mentoring: The shipping clerk is assigned a mentor or buddy who can provide ongoing support, answer questions, and help them navigate their new role. This task is typically coordinated by the shipping supervisor or human resources department.
16. Performance Evaluation: After a designated period, the shipping clerk undergoes a performance evaluation to assess their progress, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for future development. This task is typically performed by the shipping supervisor or a designated evaluator.
17. Continuous Learning and Development: The shipping clerk is encouraged to participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge in the logistics field. This may include attending workshops, webinars, or industry conferences. This task is typically coordinated by the human resources department or the shipping supervisor
From reading through the items in the example Shipping Clerk checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Shipping Clerk up to speed and working well in your Logistics team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.
