Starting a job in a warehouse for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially with all the new terms and processes to learn. From picking to palletising, warehouse work comes with its own unique vocabulary that’s essential to know for a smooth start.
This guide breaks down the most common warehouse terms and phrases that new employees will encounter, helping you feel more confident and prepared for day one!
An FLT, or Forklift Truck, is a versatile industrial vehicle designed for lifting, moving and transporting materials over short distances in warehouses, factories and other industrial settings. FLT’s come in various types, including counterbalance, reach and pallet trucks, each suited for different tasks and loads. They are essential for efficiently moving heavy items, managing inventory and stacking goods, playing a critical role in daily warehouse operations.
A VNA (Very Narrow Aisle) truck is a specialised forklift designed to operate in extremely narrow warehouse aisles, maximising storage space and efficiency. Unlike standard forklifts, VNA trucks use rotating forks or turret heads to retrieve and place pallets from both sides without turning, reducing the need for wide aisle space. These trucks often work with rail or wire guidance systems, helping operators navigate safely and quickly through narrow spaces.
A PPT (Powered Pallet Truck) is a motorised device used for moving pallets and heavy loads over short distances within a warehouse or distribution centre. Designed to reduce physical strain, it allows the operator to effortlessly lift, lower and transport loads on pallets. PPTs can be either pedestrian-operated (walk-behind) or rider versions where the operator stands or sits on the truck.
An LLOP (Low-Level Order Picker), is a type of powered warehouse vehicle designed for efficient picking of goods at ground or low-shelf levels. The operator stands on a platform on the truck, which can raise slightly for easy access to items and drives it to pick locations throughout the warehouse. With easy maneuverability and speed, LLOPs are ideal for fulfilling large quantities of orders quickly, commonly used in environments with high product turnover.
An RF (Radio Frequency) scanner is a handheld or mounted device used in warehouses and distribution centers to track and manage inventory in real-time. It reads barcodes or RFID tags on items, allowing workers to update stock levels, locate products and streamline picking, packing, and shipping processes. RF scanners are typically connected to a central inventory management system, helping maintain accuracy, improve productivity and reduce errors by instantly relaying data as items are moved throughout the facility.
A handballer is responsible for manually loading and unloading items from trucks, containers or pallets within a warehouse or distribution centre. This role often involves heavy lifting, organising products and ensuring items are placed safely and securely for transport or storage. Handballers play a crucial role in logistics operations, helping streamline the flow of goods and maintain order in busy warehouse environments. This position requires good physical fitness, attention to detail and adherence to health and safety guidelines.
Palletising
Palletising is the process of stacking and securing products onto pallets for storage or shipment. It involves arranging items in a stable, organised manner to maximise space and ensure safe transport. Palletising can be done manually or with the help of automated machinery, and it’s common in warehouses, manufacturing facilities and distribution centres to streamline the handling and movement of goods. Proper palletising helps prevent damage, simplifies loading and unloading and allows for easier tracking and inventory management.
Pick rates measure the number of items a worker selects or “picks” from storage within a certain timeframe, usually per hour or shift. These rates are used in warehouses and distribution centers to track productivity, optimise workflow and set performance standards. High pick rates indicate efficient handling of inventory, which is essential in fast-paced environments. Tracking pick rates helps management assess staffing needs, reward top performers and identifies areas for improvement.
To encourage employees to stay for the long haul, they need to see a future with your company. By showcasing opportunities for advancement and development early on, you attract individuals who want to invest in a future at your company. Candidates who express a desire for growth and development are ultimately likely to stay long term. During the interview stage
