Reach Truck Operator in the Netherlands
This page describes a typical Reach Truck Operator role in Dutch logistics hubs. Openings are project-based and can vary by warehouse (fulfilment, retail distribution, food/non-food, returns). If you have recent reach truck experience and can work safely around high-bay racking, submit your CV for screening.
Quick summary
Shift and overtime premiums may apply depending on site rules and the applicable CAO.
Schedules vary by warehouse. Reliability and safe driving are prioritized.
Other Dutch logistics corridors may apply depending on assignment availability.
Hiring story (role-specific)
Warehouses in the Netherlands often scale up teams around inbound peaks and replenishment cycles. Reach truck operators are typically hired to keep pick faces stocked, move pallets into high-bay locations, and support fast-paced outbound waves without compromising safety or stock accuracy.
Pay (gross) and allowances
Gross hourly range
€15.50–€18.50 gross per hour is a realistic indicative range for reach truck assignments in Dutch logistics. Final pay depends on role complexity and site conditions.
- Rate drivers: province/location, applicable collective labour agreement (CAO), experience level, and whether the site uses multi-shift operations.
- Premiums may include: evening/night shifts, weekends/holidays, and overtime (all site-dependent).
- Important: figures are indicative gross (brutto). Net pay varies by personal situation and assignment structure.
Working conditions (typical)
- Shift-based work; start times can be early or late depending on inbound/outbound waves.
- Safety-first environment: speed limits, pedestrian zones, rack safety and “no phone” policies are common.
- PPE is usually required (e.g., safety shoes, hi-vis). Site rules may require additional PPE.
- Overtime may occur during peak weeks; approval and compensation follow site/CAO rules.
- Travel/accommodation: depends on project setup; if offered, terms are confirmed case-by-case (no assumptions).
- Deductions (general): any housing, transport, or equipment deductions—if applicable—must be disclosed before acceptance.
What you will do (day-to-day)
Core tasks
- Put-away and replenishment: move pallets from inbound staging to high-bay locations.
- Supply picking areas: keep pick faces stocked to prevent downtime.
- Support outbound: stage pallets, help with loading preparation where required.
- Stock accuracy: follow location rules, scan movements if the site uses RF/WMS.
- Pre-shift checks: basic equipment checks (battery/tires/forks) and report defects.
Quality & safety expectations
Dutch warehouses typically enforce strict safety standards around high-bay racking and mixed traffic zones.
- Maintain safe speed and turning radius; keep forks low when traveling.
- Respect pedestrian walkways, crossing rules, and site signage.
- Follow rack loading limits and placement guidelines (height/weight/positioning).
- Keep the work area tidy to reduce trip hazards and pallet damage.
Work environment, equipment and safety
- Sites: distribution centres, fulfilment warehouses, retail logistics, returns processing, and (in some cases) temperature-controlled areas.
- Equipment: reach truck (high-bay), pallet handling gear; some sites also use EPT or counterbalance forklift (role-dependent).
- Tools/PPE: safety shoes are commonly mandatory; hi-vis and gloves may be required. Site provides rules and induction.
- Physical demands: prolonged standing/driving, frequent head/neck checks, and occasional manual handling (varies by site).
Requirements and certificates
Must-have
- Recent reach truck experience in a warehouse/logistics setting.
- Ability to work safely near racking, pedestrians and other trucks.
- Basic English for instructions, safety briefings and incident reporting.
- CV in English is required for review and selection.
Nice-to-have
- Valid reach truck certificate (often required by site; practical test may still apply).
- RF scanner/WMS familiarity (location scanning, pallet moves, exceptions).
- Experience with replenishment for fast-moving consumer goods or e-commerce.
- Flexibility for shift work and peak-week overtime.
Candidate portrait
You are a good fit if you…
- Drive smoothly and predictably and keep full awareness in mixed-traffic zones.
- Can place pallets confidently at height without rushing or “last-second” steering.
- Prefer structured rules and can follow an induction exactly as taught.
- Communicate clearly about near-misses, damage risks, or equipment issues.
- Can work shifts consistently and arrive on time for start-of-shift briefings.
- Care about stock accuracy and do not “guess” locations when scanning is required.
This role is not for you if you…
- Dislike strict safety rules (speed limits, pedestrian right-of-way, phone bans).
- Prefer constant variety over repetitive, process-driven warehouse work.
- Are uncomfortable working around high-bay racking or tight aisles.
- Cannot communicate basic safety information in English.
Documents and legal work readiness (non-EU candidates)
Non-EU candidates are welcome to apply. Work authorisation in the Netherlands depends on your status and the assignment setup. Final eligibility is confirmed after CV screening and role matching.
- Identity: valid passport; additional checks may apply for certain sites (e.g., background screening).
- Work authorisation: may require an employer-sponsored arrangement (employer-specific) or an existing right to work (situation-dependent).
- Role proof: certificates and evidence of experience (if available) can accelerate screening.
- Language: basic English for safe operations is expected on most warehouses.
- Transparency: any assignment-specific terms (housing/transport, deductions, probation/notice rules) are confirmed before you accept.
Questions: use the contact page: https://mavial.pl/kontakt.html.
FAQ
Is the pay shown here gross (brutto) or net?
All figures on this page are indicative gross (brutto) hourly rates. Net pay depends on your personal tax/social situation and any assignment-specific benefits or deductions (if applicable).
What changes the hourly rate in the Netherlands?
Rates commonly vary by province/location, the applicable collective labour agreement (CAO), shift pattern (day vs multi-shift), warehouse complexity (high-bay, narrow-aisle), and your verified experience.
Do I need a reach truck certificate before I apply?
You can apply with experience, but many sites require a reach truck certificate and/or a practical driving test. If the assignment requires a specific certificate, it is clarified during screening.
What are typical shifts for reach truck operators?
Day shifts are common, and many distribution centres also run 2-shift or 3-shift schedules. Shift allowances and overtime rules are site/CAO dependent.
Is accommodation included?
It depends on the project setup. If accommodation or transport is offered, the terms (including any deductions) are clarified before acceptance. Do not assume inclusion unless confirmed for your specific assignment.