What to include on a material handler resume
Depending on the job description, you might include several details that are most relevant to the position in your resume. This could require you to make minor updates for each job you apply for. Generally, there are several essential elements you can include on your material handler resume:Professional summary
Writing your professional summary is an opportunity to highlight your top qualities as a candidate. Here, you can mention one to two of your biggest achievements or strongest skills to show hiring managers who you are. This can include soft skills that the job requires or particular equipment you've used. You can also share key metrics, like how many packages you handle a day. In your professional summary, consider summarizing how many years of experience you have in this role if you've worked several years as a material handler. Related: How To Write a Resume Summary Plus 5 Strong Examples [Video + Transcript]Responsibilities
Your work experience section is where you can include the key tasks you performed in previous roles. Common responsibilities you might add here include:- Shipment handling: Managing shipments can be a common responsibility, as this role often loads and unloads trucks or transports packages across warehouses. With this, you might mention if you used any equipment to handle packages, like forklifts or pallet jacks.
- Packaging: Packaging materials to prepare them for shipment can be a key responsibility for material handlers. This can include preparing labels, using specific packages or scanning materials when they are ready for delivery.
- Inspecting: You often need to inspect packages to ensure they're in the proper condition for shipments. This means both checking for damages and ensuring that the correct number of materials are prepared for delivery.
- Maintaining logs: As inventory management can be a key responsibility for material handlers, managing logs of goods and shipments can be helpful. You might also review inventory records to ensure the warehouse has the appropriate stock levels.
- Providing customer service: As a material handler, you might also provide customer service to other facilities or clients. This can involve answering queries about inventory or detailing delivery statuses for customers.