Position Overview
A distribution clerk works in a warehouse setting where his main job is to mobilize incoming orders and shipments.
The work of a distribution clerk may be considered an amalgamation of order picking, packing, and shipping duties – which is mostly what an order picker does as well.
However, a distribution clerk performs duties that are a little more profound than that of an order picker.
In this role, you will be performing many tasks, including order picking duties, overseeing labeling procedures, and preparing documents for each outgoing shipment.
Position Requirements
Usually, a high school diploma or a GED equivalent is considered sufficient to work as a distribution clerk.
This job is not an entry-level one, which means that you may have to possess some experience and exposure to warehouse activities in either an order picker or apprentice/internship role.
While working as a distribution clerk, you will be on your feet constantly, and you will have to lift and carry heavy materials. This is why it is important for you to be physically dexterous.
A forklift operations license will, of course, prove to be beneficial when applying for the job of a distribution clerk.
Here is a list of other duties that you will be performing as a distribution clerk:
Distribution Clerk Duties and Responsibilities
• Study work orders to determine the type and quantity of products required by the customer
• Confirm availability of the required product from the company inventory system
• Locate the order from storage areas and compare items with original order sheets
• Check the product for damage or discrepancies and communicate any issues to the supervisor
• Use forklifts to pick up heavy items from their storage spaces and transport them to delivery pallets
• Oversee warehouse workers to ensure that appropriate packing and labeling activities are being carried out
• Prepare delivery tickets and other correlating paperwork to ensure that all documentation is complete before the product is shipped out
• Supervise the transportation of picked items from the packing area to the awaiting delivery truck
• Create and maintain effective liaison with vendors and suppliers to ensure on-time and accurate delivery to the warehouse
• Maintain product inventory and ensure that any low stock instances are covered in an immediate manner
• Ensure that the warehouse area is clean and safe and conducive to churning out high-quality service
• Prepare invoices and ensure that they are sent along with outgoing shipments
• Obtain services of third-party couriers for fragile or large items, and follow up on deliveries to ensure timely distribution