Resources
Post a Job
 Special offer 

Jumpstart your hiring with a £100 credit to sponsor your first job.*

Sponsored Jobs posted directly on Indeed are 65% more likely to report a hire than non-sponsored jobs**
  • Visibility for hard-to-fill roles through branding and urgently hiring
  • Instantly source candidates through matching to expedite your hiring
  • Access skilled candidates to cut down on mismatched hires
*The £100 Sponsored Job credit offer is only available for new accounts in the UK that post a job and expires one year after account creation. Upon expiration of the credit, users are charged based on Sponsored Job budget. Terms, conditions and quality standards apply **Indeed data, United Kingdom, Q2 2024

Shipping Clerk Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated 5 November 2025
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines
7 min read

A Shipping Clerk, or Despatch Clerk, implements outgoing shipments of a company’s products and goods. Their primary duties include scheduling and logistics of outgoing shipments, tracking inventory and maintaining all records and data of the activities.

Shipping Clerk duties and responsibilities

A shipping clerk monitors outgoing shipments to make sure that the operations in a warehouse run efficiently. Other duties of a Shipping Clerk may include:

  • Scheduling shipments and logistics, verifying the contents of outgoing shipments
  • Determining methods and costs of shipping and affixing shipping labels with identifying information, charges and payment information
  • Packing containers with fillers, spacers and protective padding and securing cartons and containers with nails, straps or metal tape
  • Examining and verifying that outgoing shipments meet specifications and adhere to environmental systems and management procedures
  • Documenting and sending returned shipments of damaged, defective or unsold products to Returned-Goods Receiving Clerk
  • Preparing and printing shipping labels corresponding to shipping needs
  • Taking and managing inventory and keeping the area secured
  • Organising and maintaining the stockroom through cataloguing and cleaning on a scheduled basis
  • Maintaining all computerised shipping and distribution records and compiling reports for senior management

Hire your next Shipping Clerk today

Post a job

Hire your next Shipping Clerk today

Post a job
Close

Shipping Clerk Job Description Examples:

Example 1

Due to expansion of our activities an exciting opportunity has arisen for a Junior Shipping Clerk to be based at our Southampton Offices within the prestigious Ocean Village Marina Complex. Some knowledge of Sea Freight Import / Export is essential. On the job training/instruction will be given on our in-house systems and all our processes. We are looking for candidates who have a ‘can do attitude’ and who are always willing to work hard. This is a great role within a small and friendly team to learn and progress within the RORO sector. *Job purpose* To provide efficient, prompt and a highly professional service to our car carrier customers. To assist current team in the timely and accurate processing of our Import / Export Cargo. *General overview of responsibilities – To assist Import/Export Depts.* * Provide service details upon request to customers, including, but not limited to - vessel schedules, delivery terminal, cut-off dates, opening/closing times * Process booking requests in K Line Global System * Process Export Shipping Instruction * Keeping track of allocated space for UK bookings * Update in house XL record sheets logging relevant booking information * Review daily on quay list to check cargo booked dimensions against measured on quay. Add cargo received data into in-house systems to generate EDI messaging to our clients. * Collate and submit UCR’s using CNS/Destin 8 systems. * Creation of Import Files * Checking Import Freights, THC and associated costs against Tariffs * Advising accounts teams regarding incoming payments to ensure correct allocation. * Up-loading Import Manifests to CNS / Destin 8 Systems * Checking with new Import Customers regarding acceptance of freight costs * Arrangement of adhoc terminal services (forklifts / craneage etc…) * Any other tasks as directed by Office Manager *Required skills & experience * * Some knowledge of Sea Freight Import / Export is essential. * Good communication skills with both internal and external clients. * Good standard of English and Maths is required. Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Salary: per year Benefits: * Bike to work scheme * Company pension * Private medical insurance Schedule: * Monday to Friday Work remotely: * Temporarily due to COVID-19

Example 2

Shipping Clerk

A vacancy has arisen for a well motivated and organised individual with either experience or a willingness to learn within our offices in Alton Town Center. The ideal candidate would be bilingual in English / other (although this is preferred and not essential).

You will be responsible for assisting the Shipping Manager and team in looking after imports from USA on FAS, FOB, CFR, CIF, DDP basis.
Working on all aspects of order execution and physical delivery of goods.

Duties and responsibilities will include:

  • Liaising with clients, suppliers, processors, hauliers, shipping lines and freight forwarders, warehouses, clearing agents etc.
  • Entering data on the system and producing relevant shipping documents (invoices, shipping instructions, shipping advices)
  • Updating companies in-house databases and spreadsheets
  • Verification of shipping documentation
  • Handling and checking all original documents for customs clearance
  • Tracking of the cargo and keeping all parties informed

What you need to succeed:

  • An understanding of Incoterms
  • Highly organised
  • Good attention to detail
  • Team player
  • Excellent communication
  • Computer literate
  • Ability to perform during peaks and troughs

The position offered is Monday - Friday working in the office in Alton between 14:00 - 18:00. Hybrid working is not an option. Some experience is preferred, however, on the job training will be provided. The salary offered is based on £28,000 pro rata, this means the actual salary is £15,000 PA based on a 20 hour working week.

Please send your CV and a covering letter

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Salary: From £15,000.00 per year

Benefits:
  • Company pension
Schedule:
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Education:
  • A-Level or equivalent (preferred)

Language:
  • English (preferred)

Example 3

Company description

Emazon Freight Ltd offers a full and complete portfolio

of services for Land, Air and Sea across the globe.

With an unrivalled network of professional partners across the world, we are experts in all major global trade markets and specialists in China and South East Asia. we are also a member of British International Freight Association.



Job description



The position is based in our office London Heathrow

Proof of your right to work in the UK is essential. We do not provide visa sponsorship and we do not accept CVs from recruitment agencies for this role.

It is desirable if the role holder can communicate in an intermediate level in Chinese because both Chinese writing and speaking skills are required for this role .

Main Duties

  • Responding to and dealing with customer communication by email and telephone.
  • Maintaining customer relationships and monitor the quality of service they are receiving.
  • General administrative duties
  • Request customs clearance documents from customers prior to cargo arrival.
  • Complete Customs entries on internal system and submit to HMRC
  • Raise customer files, collecting and completing all documentation prior to release and/or delivery of consignment.
  • Organise and arrange deliveries as per customer requirements.
  • Monitor uncleared entries on a daily basis.
  • File, closing cost and sales invoicing to be completed in a timely manner.
  • Filing and archiving job files once completed.
  • Liaising and cooperating with HMRC on queries.

Essential skills and experience:

  • Ability to communicate in written and verbal Chinese (desirable).
  • Business proficiency in verbal and written English.
  • Previous working experience in logistics and shipping with basic understanding of the customs regulations.
  • Experience using excel , word and PPT skills
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to identify solutions and come up with action plans to solve different problems effectively.
  • Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise a varied workload and meet demanding deadlines.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £22,000.00-£25,000.00 per year

Benefits:
  • On-site parking
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • No weekends

Work Location: In person


Application deadline: start date: 01/09/2023

Example 4

About us

Klanorians UK LTD is a small business in Glasgow, G31 4HZ. We are professional, agile, and our goal is to is a leading freight shipping company that specializes in providing reliable and efficient transportation solutions for businesses across various industries. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and a focus on delivering exceptional service, we have established ourselves as a trusted partner in the freight shipping industry. Our company offers a comprehensive range of freight shipping services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Whether it's local, regional, or international shipping, we have the expertise and resources to handle shipments of all sizes and types. We work closely with our clients to understand their specific requirements and provide customized solutions that ensure their goods are delivered safely and on time..

Our work environment includes:
  • Modern office setting


Shipping Clerk

As a shipping clerk, you will play a crucial role in organising and maintains shipping records, prepares shipping documentation, coordinates with carriers, and communicates with internal teams to ensure timely and successful deliveries of goods.

You will be responsible for managing shipping and receiving operations, ensuring accurate documentation, coordinating with carriers and suppliers, and maintaining effective communication with various stakeholders.

Requirements:

  • Prior experience in shipping, logistics, and customs is essential.
  • Familiarity with shipping processes, documentation, and inventory management is essential.
  • Understanding shipping procedures, including documentation requirements, is essential. Familiarity with different shipping methods (such as ground, air, or sea) and associated regulations is essential.
  • Effective organizational skills are compulsory to manage multiple shipments simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet shipping deadlines. Being able to maintain accurate records and keep track of shipments is crucial.
  • Must be able to work overtime as needed.


Responsibilities:

  • Prepare shipping documentation: Generate shipping labels, packing lists, bills of lading, and other necessary paperwork for outbound shipments. Ensure accurate and complete information to facilitate smooth transportation.
  • Coordinate shipping activities: Schedule pickups, arrange transportation with carriers or freight forwarders, and track shipments to ensure on-time delivery. Communicate any delays or issues to relevant parties and provide proactive solutions.
  • Monitor shipping costs: Compare rates from different carriers, negotiate contracts, and select the most cost-effective shipping options without compromising delivery timelines or quality.
  • Maintain shipping records: Keep detailed records of shipped and received items, including tracking information, delivery confirmations, and any associated documentation. Update systems and databases to reflect accurate records.
  • Obtaining customs clearance and processessing import and export documentation necessary for the movement of goods between countries.
  • Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £22,500.00-£25,000.00 per year

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Glasgow, G31 4HZ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Experience:
  • Shipping & receiving: 1 year (preferred)

Licence/Certification:
  • Driving Licence (preferred)


Work Location: In start date: 02/10/2023
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines
Create a culture of innovation
Download our free step-by-step guide on encouraging healthy risk-taking
Get the guide

What does a Shipping Clerk do?

Shipping Clerks are responsible for supervising merchandise that leaves the company’s warehouse and generating purchase orders, invoicing and other shipping documents. They fulfil the orders and verify the accuracy and condition of the merchandise before shipping. They also print shipping labels and confirm that the correct postage or packing slip is attached. Shipping Clerks also schedule freight pickups and issuing instructions for loading the products. They monitor packages from the warehouse to the point of delivery, troubleshoot freight company issues and handle customer requests and complaints.

Shipping Clerk skills and qualifications

Shipping Clerks are detail-oriented with excellent multi-tasking and interpersonal skills. A successful Shipping Clerk candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that include:

  • Ability to operate a forklift, aerial lift or hand truck to move and convey materials and hoist packages
  • Excellent time management, administrative and organisation skills
  • Communication and interpersonal skills for troubleshooting shipping issues and customer complaints
  • Ability to maintain relationships with freight companies, co-workers, management and vendors
  • Knowledge of shipping procedures, routes and rates
  • Ability to assemble cardboard or wooden containers and crates
  • Strong computer skills and maths skills
  • Interpersonal skills

Shipping Clerk experience requirements

Companies usually require candidates to have between six months to five years of experience in shipping, organising stockrooms and tracking inventory. Some employers train new hires with a general knowledge of invoices and packing slips. Some employers also prefer candidates with experience of spreadsheets and database software. Experience in warehouse supervision, retail, manufacturing or a relevant field is a plus.

Shipping Clerk education and training requirements

Companies usually require candidates to have a GCSE. Companies may also accept five GCSEs at grade A-C, including maths and English, or three A-levels at grade A-C. Other requirements include certification in operating forklifts and other heavy equipment used on-site in the warehouse. Some employers require candidates to complete training in radio frequency, scanners, electronic boards, handheld digital devices, warehouse management software, electronic logging devices. Other employers require candidates to have a valid CPR and first aid certificate and a full UK driver’s licence with a clean driving record.

Shipping Clerk salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of a Shipping Clerk is £21,802 per year. This figure varies depending on several factors, including the company, experience and geographical location.

Job description samples for similar positions

Other job description samples are available if this is not quite what you’re looking for:

Create a culture of innovation
Download our free step-by-step guide on encouraging healthy risk-taking
Get the guide

Shipping Clerk job description FAQs

Two chefs, one wearing a red headband, review a laptop and take notes at a wooden table in a kitchen setting.

Hire your next Shipping Clerk today

Post a job

Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

No search results found

    Related articles

    20 ChatGPT prompts for effective employee onboarding
    Read article
    How to write an employment verification letter
    Read article
    New Starter Onboarding Checklist for UK Employers
    Read article