What exactly does a logistics worker do?
Do you want to know what a logistics worker does before you start working in the Netherlands? In short, a logistics worker ensures that products end up in the right place. This starts with unloading trucks and ends with preparing orders for shipment. A lot happens in between: scanning, sorting, packing, and sometimes driving a pallet truck or forklift.
The job is physical, varied, and very suitable if you enjoy working with your hands. You do not need a diploma, and basic English or Polish is often sufficient on the work floor. That is why this is a popular first job for migrant workers from Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and Romania.
What is a logistics worker?
A logistics worker usually works in a warehouse or distribution center. You are part of a team that manages the flow of goods. Think of large centers for webshops, supermarkets, or transport companies. There are thousands of these types of locations in the Netherlands, especially around Venlo, Tilburg, Rotterdam, and Utrecht.
The role is broad. One day you pick orders, the next you help in the packing department or check the stock. Do you want to know more about what such a location looks like from the inside? Then read our article about working in a distribution center in the Netherlands.
The main tasks at a glance
Tasks vary by company, but these are the most common activities:
- Order picking: removing products from the shelves using a handheld scanner or voice-picking system.
- Packing: preparing orders for shipment, including labels and shipping documents.
- Loading and unloading: filling or emptying trucks, often with a pallet truck.
- Checking stock: counting and registering whether everything in the system is correct.
- Forklift driving: moving pallets (you need a certificate for this).
- Sorting: distributing packages by destination or route.
Do you work in the food industry or a cold store? Then extra rules for hygiene and clothing apply. Do you work at an e-commerce company? Then the pace is often high, especially during peak periods.
What skills do you need?
You do not need any specific education, but a few traits help immensely. You must be accurate, because a incorrectly scanned product causes problems further down the chain. You are physically fit, as you often walk many kilometers per shift. And you can work well in a team.
Basic knowledge of Dutch or English is useful, but not always mandatory. Many employers already have Polish or Romanian colleagues, which helps you find your feet quickly. Do you want a complete picture of the logistics sector and where to find the right job? Then take a look at our overview per region.
What does a logistics worker earn in the Netherlands?
The salary depends on your experience, the company, and the collective labor agreement. As a beginner, you usually work based on the minimum wage or slightly above. You often earn more with a forklift certificate or by working in shifts. Allowances for evening, night, and weekend shifts can significantly increase your weekly wage.
Do you work through a recruitment agency? Then you are covered by the collective labor agreement for temporary workers and you are entitled to the same remuneration as permanent colleagues at the hiring company. Want to know more about how taxes and health insurance work? Read our article on working in the Netherlands: taxes, health insurance, and daily travel.
Finding a logistics worker vacancy through Charlie works
Are you looking for a logistics worker vacancy? Charlie works connects migrant workers from Eastern Europe with employers in Dutch logistics. We arrange not only your work but also your housing. Our homes are SNF-certified, which means they meet strict quality requirements.
This makes the move to the Netherlands easier. You do not have to look for a room yourself, and you often live with colleagues from the same country. In many cases, we also arrange transport to work.
How does the application process work?
You apply, we discuss your wishes and experience, and we match you with a suitable employer. You can often start within a few days. Do you want to know exactly how such a process through a recruitment agency works? Then view our explanation of how a recruitment agency in the Netherlands works.
Career growth opportunities in logistics
Starting as a logistics worker does not mean you stay there. Many colleagues grow into roles such as team leader, foreman, or planner. Others obtain a forklift or reach truck certificate and earn more as a result. The sector is large and there is a high demand for good people, so those who put in the effort get opportunities.
A transition to production or transport is also possible. This way, you build up strong work experience in the Netherlands step by step.
Ready to get started?
Are you enthusiastic and do you want to start quickly? View the current vacancies at Charlie works and apply. We provide work, good housing, and guidance in your own language. This way, you get off to a flying start in Dutch logistics.
