Packer - Light Goods

Also known as:

Light Goods Packer
Order Picker
Picker Packer

Introduction

Light goods packers pack all types of manufactured goods. Many packers work on production lines, packing products as they are made, using a variety of packaging. Packers may also check or inspect goods.

They can also be called picker packers or order pickers.

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Work Activities

Packers of light goods pack all sorts of manufactured products such as clothing, food and drink, electrical and electronic equipment, pharmaceutical products and small engineering parts. Items are packed:
• to protect them from damage
• to preserve them
• for display, in presentation packaging
• so that products can be sold in convenient numbers or amounts.

Many packers work on production lines and pack products as they are made. They lift items from a conveyor belt and put them into protective materials, such as plastic, shredded paper, bubble-wrap, shrink-wrap or polystyrene. The items are then put into boxes.

Packers might make up boxes from pre-cut cardboard. They might operate sealing equipment, such as tape or staple guns. If products are packed by machine - for instance, liquids being put into bottles or cream into tubes - the packer might operate the machine.

Packers weigh some items as they pack them, for example small engineering parts such as nuts and bolts. In other cases they count the items to make sure the same number go into every package.

Packers may stack the boxes or crates of packed goods ready for delivery.

They may mark up the consignment on the computer and contact the customer by email to say the goods are on their way.

The packaging of some items is broken down into stages and a packer may do only part of the process. For example, one packer may line the collar of a shirt with cardboard and plastic inserts; another may fold and pin it; a final packer may bag and box it.

Some items are packed by shrink-wrap machines. Packers cover the products in polythene sheeting and push them through the machine, which heats and shrinks the plastic film tightly.

Packers who deal with a variety of different products may need to choose appropriate packaging materials. They select packages and inner protection of the correct size and material to suit the product, and make sure it is safe to transport.

Some packers choose a selection of items to go into a package: for example the various accompaniments to go into a frozen ready-meal.

Some packers label packages with product or customer details.

Packers sometimes have to check goods for faults or damage as part of the quality control process.

Some packers work in production areas; others in warehouse or despatch departments. If they have to work in an area of low temperature (for example when packing fresh meat) they usually wear protective clothing.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You will need to be methodical and able to work quickly. Good hand skills and co-ordination are essential.

Some packers need nimble fingers to deal with tiny parts or fixing materials like pins. Those working with fragile objects like glass need to work carefully. Those responsible for labelling should have clear handwriting.

As a packer you should enjoy practical work. You need to be willing to do repetitive work; many packers are involved in packing the same type of product week after week.

Many jobs require familiarity with computers and basic keyboard skills.

Some packers work sitting down, but many spend most of their time on their feet. Good eyesight may be required for some jobs.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Light goods packers earn in the range of £210 - £230 a week, rising to £270 - £330 a week. Higher earners can make around £350 a week.

Packers usually work a 39-hour week, which may include shift work and work at weekends.

Employers throughout the UK are manufacturers in a wide range of industries.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Skills and abilities gained in practical or technical work using your hands are helpful for people wanting to become packers.

Experience in postal work, packaging and delivery can be useful. Good handwriting is important.

• 13% of people in occupations such as packer work part-time.
• 2% have flexible hours.
• 27% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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