Warehouse Picker/Packer in the Netherlands
This is a practical, project-style description of a Warehouse Picker/Packer role in the Netherlands. Assignments typically run in distribution centers or e-commerce fulfillment sites. The exact workflow depends on the warehouse: some sites focus on fast picking with scanners, others on careful packing and labeling.
Quick snapshot
Role: Warehouse Picker/Packer (order picking & packing)
Pay: €14.75–€17.25 gross/hour (typical for 21+). Final rate depends on the site, province, shift pattern, experience and overtime rules.
Environment: distribution center / e-commerce fulfillment; pacing can be fast during peak volumes.
Hiring story (how this role usually starts)
Many Dutch warehouses scale up quickly for seasonal peaks, e-commerce campaigns, or new client contracts. Week 1 is about onboarding: safety briefings, scanner training, and learning the layout. By week 2, performance becomes consistent: accurate picks, clean packing, and steady pace without shortcuts.
Tip: include on your CV whether you used scanners (RF), voice picking, or worked in cold environments.
You are a good fit if you…
- enjoy structured, repetitive work and keep accuracy high even when it gets busy
- can follow scanner prompts and respect picking/packing procedures
- are comfortable with shift schedules and occasional overtime
- communicate basic safety information in English
- can stand/walk for long periods and lift within site limits
- treat quality checks and labeling as part of the job (not “extra”)
This role is not for you if you…
- prefer slow pace or dislike productivity targets
- cannot work shifts, weekends, or flexible start times when required
- struggle with attention to detail (wrong items/labels create costly errors)
- avoid basic English communication for instructions and safety
What you will do (day-to-day)
Picking & scanning
- Pick items using RF/handheld scanners (sometimes voice picking)
- Confirm quantities, batch/lot details (if applicable), and locations
- Handle fragile items carefully and follow site rules
Packing & dispatch prep
- Pack orders to standard (cartons, fillers, sealing)
- Label parcels, check barcodes, and prepare for outbound lanes
- Keep your station tidy; report damaged stock
Quality & returns (site-dependent)
- Basic visual checks (wrong SKU, damage, missing parts)
- Sort returns and follow simple inspection steps
- Escalate issues to a team lead when needed
Requirements & nice-to-haves
Must-have
- CV in English is required for review and selection
- Shift readiness (day / 2-shift; nights or weekends on some projects)
- Physical stamina (standing, walking, lifting within site limits)
- Basic English for safety instructions and coordination
- Reliability: punctuality, clean work habits, attention to detail
Nice-to-have
- Previous experience with scanners (RF), voice picking, or WMS systems
- Experience in e-commerce fulfillment, returns, or quality control
- EPT certification or forklift/reach truck exposure (only if site requests)
- Cold-store readiness (some warehouses operate chilled zones)
If you have certificates, list them clearly on your CV (even if expired—mention the date).
Working conditions in the Netherlands (project-based)
Shifts, overtime & allowances (general)
Many sites use fixed day shifts or two-shift rotations. During peak periods, overtime may be offered or requested. Shift allowances (evening/night/weekend) and overtime multipliers depend on the assignment and applicable agreements.
- Gross pay is quoted before taxes; net depends on your tax situation
- Holiday pay / vacation accrual may be included or paid separately (assignment-specific)
- Deductions (if any) are shown in your contract and payslip (e.g., housing/insurance/transport if provided)
Safety, PPE & standards
Warehouses operate with strict safety rules. Expect onboarding on pedestrian routes, pallet traffic zones, manual handling limits, and incident reporting. PPE requirements vary by site.
- Follow scanner and supervisor instructions—no shortcuts
- Use correct lifting techniques; ask for help with oversized items
- Keep aisles clear; report spills, damaged packaging, or hazards
Documents & compliance (working legally in NL via a Polish employer)
The exact compliance route depends on your nationality, your current residence status, and the contract model used for the assignment. The employer confirms work authorization requirements after screening.
Typically requested
- Valid passport/ID
- English CV (mandatory) and any relevant certificates
- Site onboarding forms; sometimes a background check depending on client policy
General authorization principles (high level)
- EU/EEA citizens usually work without a work permit, but site registration and onboarding still apply
- Non-EU candidates may require employer-specific authorization; the applicable route is confirmed by the employer
- For posted-worker models, documentation may include social security coverage confirmation (project-dependent)
Questions: use the contact page — https://mavial.pl/kontakt.html.
FAQ
Is the hourly pay gross or net?
All figures on this page are gross (before tax). Net pay depends on your tax situation and any agreed deductions shown on your contract and payslip.
What pay level is realistic in the Netherlands for this role?
Adult (21+) warehouse picking/packing roles often start close to the statutory minimum wage and move up with experience, shifts and allowances. Your final rate depends on the project, province, and shift pattern.
Do I need experience with scanners?
Not always, but it helps. If you used RF scanners, voice picking or any WMS system, include it in your CV because it speeds up onboarding and improves your match.
What is the typical schedule?
Most sites run day shifts or two-shift rotations. Some projects include evenings, nights or weekends, especially during peak volume. Overtime is assignment-dependent.
Do you provide accommodation or transport?
It depends on the employer and project. If accommodation/transport is offered, related conditions and deductions (if any) must be stated in the assignment terms and payslip.
Related Netherlands jobs
Use the quick filter to find a related role.