Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Hand Packer
What hand packers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a hand packer?
Start at the pack station. From there, the day usually includes pack products, add packing material, and label packages. Full or part time, with seasonal peaks and overtime.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a hand packer working full time.
- Start at the pack station.
- Pack online orders.
- Scan and label.
- Break.
- Pack fragile items.
- Restock boxes.
- Clean the station.
Where hand packers work
Packers work in warehouses, fulfillment centers and plants.
Hours and schedule
Full or part time, with seasonal peaks and overtime.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Pack products
- Add packing material
- Label packages
- Check for damage
- Count items
- Seal boxes
- Keep stations clean
Tools you’ll use every day
- Scanners
- Tape guns
- Label printers
- Scales
- Packing material
- Box cutters
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Easy entry
- Seasonal work available
- Many openings
- Short training
What’s hard
- Repetitive
- Standing
- Productivity targets
- Low pay
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I want to start fast
- I work quickly
- I’m accurate
- I can stand all shift
- I want seasonal work
- I don’t need experience
Not sure? Take the free Hand Packer fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Lift safely
- Use box cutters carefully
- Avoid twisting
- Keep aisles clear