What is the work like?
Packers work on production lines, putting manufactured goods and products into containers like boxes, trays, bags and crates. Some packers work by hand at a conveyor belt, while others operate packing machines and load the raw materials, packaging and labels.
As a packer, your duties would usually include:
- packing goods with protective materials, such as bubble wrap and polystyrene chips
- sealing containers using glue, staples or shrink-wrap
- weighing and labelling packaged goods ready for dispatch
- cleaning work areas
- reporting any problems during the shift to supervisors.
In the case of heavy goods, such as washing machines or vehicle parts, you would use loading and lifting gear. You might also operate a forklift truck to move goods to storage areas.
You would follow health and safety regulations at all times, particularly when working with hazardous materials.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not usually need qualifications to work as a packer, although you may need basic reading, writing and maths skills. You may have to sit an entry test to assess your practical skills before being offered a job.
You may be able to start work as a packer on an Apprenticeship with a warehouse or manufacturing company. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
You may need a forklift truck licence for certain jobs. For information on how to get your licence, see the profile for Forklift Truck Operator.
What further training and development can I do?
You would normally have a short induction period when you start work, covering health and safety, packing procedures and equipment, staff welfare and employment conditions. A supervisor or trainer would then show you how to carry out your duties.
You could take the work-based NVQ for Packaging Operators at levels 1 and 2.
The British Association of Removers (BAR) offers short courses, which include packing training, for people working in the removals industry. Contact BAR for more information.
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be around £12,000 a year.
- Experienced staff can earn around £15,000 a year.
Salary rates vary considerably depending on the industry and your speed and experience. Some packers are paid piece rates. Salaries can increase with night shift payments, overtime and extra duties like driving.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work 37 to 40 hours a week. This could include shiftwork and may cover weekends or nights. Part-time work is common and there may be overtime.
You would be based in a factory or warehouse, and would spend most of your time sitting or standing at a packing machine or conveyor line. Some jobs, such as packing medicines, are done in sterile conditions. Meat packing would take place in a chilled environment.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- the ability to carry out repetitive tasks quickly and carefully
- good practical skills
- the ability to follow instructions
- a reasonable level of fitness
- clear handwriting for labelling
- an awareness of safety issues.
What opportunities are there?
Most of your opportunities are with factories and warehouses throughout the UK. Other organisations that employ packers include mail order companies, shipping and forwarding agents, large retailers, removals firms, and companies specialising in exporting goods.
Your promotion options include becoming a supervisor or shift leader. You could also move into the distribution and delivery of products, for example, as a Warehouse Manager.