Container Loader / Unloader in the Netherlands
This page describes a typical Container Loader / Unloader assignment in the Netherlands. The work is inbound-focused: unloading cartons from containers, building stable pallets, wrapping/labeling, and staging goods for warehouse flow. Openings are project-based and can vary by site (distribution center, cross-dock, or industrial warehouse).
Hiring story: inbound peaks and fast turnarounds
Warehouses in the Netherlands often receive mixed containers with tight inbound deadlines. When inbound volumes spike, teams need reliable hands to unload safely, keep pallet quality high, and move goods into the picking flow without delays. That is where this role fits: steady pace, clear tasks, safety-first execution.
Role overview
- Category
- Warehouse & Logistics
- Work sites
- Distribution centers, cross-docks, industrial warehouses
- Typical shifts
- Day / late shift; sometimes nights (project dependent)
- Start
- Project-based; depends on client onboarding
Reminder: CV in English is required for screening and selection.
Pay (gross) — range and drivers
All amounts below are gross (brutto). Your final rate depends on location (province/city), shift pattern, experience, productivity expectations, and the applicable agreement for the assignment.
| Item | What to expect (indicative) |
|---|---|
| Base rate (gross) | €14.75–€17.50 per hour (role-typical range for manual inbound unloading) |
| Shift allowance | May apply for late/night/weekend hours (percentage depends on assignment rules) |
| Overtime | Where approved, overtime is paid according to the assignment’s rules (often as a percentage uplift) |
| Holiday accrual | Commonly accrued and paid according to contract/assignment rules (gross) |
Allowances & overtime (project/CAO dependent)
- Allowances differ by client, sector, and collective rules for the assignment.
- Overtime must usually be approved; not every site offers it every week.
- Net pay depends on taxes/insurance and your personal situation (gross shown here).
Day-to-day tasks (what you actually do)
- Unload cartons and goods from containers (team lift when needed) and move items to a conveyor, sorting zone, or pallet build area.
- Build stable pallets: stacking, corner protection (if used), and stretch wrapping to keep loads safe for internal transport.
- Scan barcodes / check labels; separate damages and report exceptions according to site instructions.
- Stage pallets in the correct lanes so EPT/forklift operators can move them safely (you may assist, depending on your certification).
- Keep aisles clear, follow manual handling technique, and comply with safety/PPE rules.
This role is different from order picking: it is primarily inbound unloading & receiving support.
Requirements (must-have)
- Readiness for physical work: frequent lifting, twisting, and walking during the shift.
- Shift flexibility (start times can vary by site; occasional overtime may be requested).
- Basic English for safety briefings and simple communication on the floor.
- Reliability and teamwork: unloading is coordinated and pace matters.
- CV in English for screening and selection.
Nice-to-have
- Experience with inbound, pallet building, wrapping, or cross-dock work.
- EPT (electric pallet truck) certificate/experience (where required by the site).
- Forklift / reach truck certificate (only for sites that assign those tasks).
- Comfort using handheld scanners and following location codes.
Physical demands are assignment-specific; typical warehouses have clear handling limits and require safe technique.
Candidate snapshot
You are a good fit if you…
- can keep a steady pace while still working safely and neatly.
- are comfortable with repetitive manual handling and standing most of the shift.
- follow instructions (lane numbers, labels, scan rules) without shortcuts.
- work well in a team and communicate when you see an issue (damage, missing labels, unstable pallet).
- can handle shift changes and occasional overtime when inbound is busy.
- prefer clear, practical tasks with visible results (empty container → ready pallets).
This role is not for you if you…
- need a low-movement job (this is hands-on floor work).
- cannot lift and handle cartons repeatedly during a shift.
- avoid warehouse environments (noise, conveyors, deadlines, team coordination).
- do not want to follow safety rules strictly (PPE and technique are mandatory).
Working conditions on site
- Schedule: typically 32–40 hours/week; day/late shifts are common; nights depend on client.
- Overtime: may be available during peak inbound weeks; only when approved.
- Safety: PPE (safety shoes, hi-vis; sometimes gloves/hearing protection). Follow site traffic rules and manual handling technique.
- Tools/equipment: pallet trucks, stretch wrap, scanners; forklifts/EPT operated by certified staff where required.
- Travel/accommodation: depends on the employer and project package; any deductions (if applicable) are communicated in advance in general terms.
- Probation/fit: performance and safety compliance are checked during onboarding/first period.
Documents & process (non-EU candidates)
Non-EU candidates can apply. Work authorization is always employer- and assignment-dependent. After CV screening, the specific route is confirmed based on your profile, client requirements, and legal work setup.
- Identity: valid passport and any existing residence/work documents (if applicable).
- CV: English preferred; add recent logistics experience and any certificates.
- Screening: some sites require background checks or safety onboarding.
- On assignment: you may be asked for standard posting/assignment paperwork (e.g., assignment confirmations; where applicable, social insurance proof such as an A1 certificate).
- Local admin: client onboarding may require a BSN-related registration step depending on the setup and duration.
Questions go through the contact page: https://mavial.pl/kontakt.html.
FAQ
Is this job the same as order picking?
No. This role is primarily inbound: unloading containers, building pallets, wrapping, labeling/scanning, and staging goods. Order picking is usually outbound preparation.
How heavy is the work?
It depends on the container mix and the site. Expect frequent handling of cartons; teams and handling rules apply. Safe lifting technique and steady pacing are essential.
Do I need a forklift or EPT certificate?
Not always. Many container unloading tasks are manual. Certificates can be a plus if a site assigns you to EPT/forklift tasks, but they are not a universal requirement for unloading roles.
Do you offer accommodation?
Accommodation and transport options depend on the employer and the specific assignment package. If accommodation is offered, conditions and any deductions (if applicable) are communicated in advance.
Can non-EU candidates apply?
Yes. Eligibility depends on the employer and the legal work setup for the assignment. Submit your CV first; the feasible route is confirmed after screening.