Introduction
Ontario’s warehousing sector is a critical pillar of the province’s supply chain, ensuring goods move efficiently from suppliers to consumers. In 2022, the transportation and warehousing industry contributed $28.1 billion to the GDP of Ontario and employed 385,100 people.
Hiring skilled temporary warehouse workers is essential for maintaining seamless operations, optimizing productivity, and minimizing disruptions. Businesses must identify key skills to ensure they bring in temporary warehouse workers who can contribute effectively, even in short-term roles. At GHRC, we have over thirty years of experience in recruiting and hiring temporary warehouse workers. In this article we will share the essential skills we’ve identified in our experience that will ensure success when hiring and share tips to incorporate in your hiring process.
1. Physical Stamina and Endurance
Warehouse work is physically demanding, requiring employees to stand for extended periods, lift heavy loads, and perform repetitive movements. Typically you will want to include in your job description some minimum weight that the worker is able to lift – typically around 50 lbs. A worker’s ability to maintain energy levels throughout shifts ensures efficiency and prevents injuries. Endurance is particularly crucial in environments with high output expectations, such as fulfillment centers and distribution hubs.
Temporary warehouse workers should possess the necessary physical stamina to handle demanding tasks throughout their shifts.
2. Attention to Detail
Temporary warehouse workers with strong attention to detail ensure accuracy in all operations.
Precision is non-negotiable in warehouse operations. Workers must accurately pick, pack, and label inventory to avoid costly mistakes. A minor error in order fulfillment can lead to delays, returns, and customer dissatisfaction. Those with a keen eye for detail help maintain inventory integrity and operational accuracy.
When reviewing resumes for temporary warehouse workers, be sure to check for spelling mistakes and other errors that will tell you about the applicants attention to detail.
3. Adaptability and Flexibility
Temporary warehouse workers play a vital role in maintaining safety compliance.
Temporary workers often need to adjust to new environments quickly. The ability to learn processes, adapt to shift variations, and handle fluctuating workloads is essential. Warehouses experience peak periods where demand surges, requiring workers to transition seamlessly between tasks.
Things like willingness to cover an extra shift among temporary warehouse workers enhances overall efficiency.
4. Safety Awareness and Compliance
Temporary warehouse workers must excel in time management to meet tight deadlines. However, while doing so safety should never be compromised.
Warehouses contain potential hazards, from heavy machinery to stacked inventory. Workers must adhere to safety regulations, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and follow established protocols to prevent accidents. Understanding workplace safety minimizes injuries and ensures compliance with Ontario’s occupational health regulations.
At GHRC, we ensure all our workers are WHMIS tested and certified and it is important that any temporary warehouse workers you hire receive the same training.
5. Teamwork and Collaboration
Temporary warehouse workers trained in forklift operation can increase efficiency.
Warehouse environments rely on synchronized teamwork to meet deadlines and ensure operational efficiency. Temporary workers must integrate seamlessly into teams, communicating effectively with supervisors and colleagues. Strong collaboration skills contribute to a smoother workflow and reduce operational bottlenecks.
Problem-solving abilities are essential for temporary warehouse workers in dynamic environments.
6. Time Management Skills
Dependable temporary warehouse workers contribute significantly to operational success.
Warehouses operate under tight schedules, requiring workers to prioritize tasks and maintain steady productivity. Meeting shipping deadlines, efficiently unloading shipments, and keeping pace with workflow demands are crucial aspects of effective time management.
As a hiring manager, to ensure your temporary warehouse workers have strong time management skills, watch their productivity for their first couple of shifts and benchmark against what you would normally expect.
7. Basic Math and Inventory Management Skills
Temporary warehouse workers with technology knowledge enhance processing speed.
Workers often need to count stock, verify shipments, and process orders. Basic arithmetic skills help prevent discrepancies in inventory tracking, ensuring proper stock levels and reducing loss. Familiarity with barcode scanning and warehouse management systems (WMS) enhances efficiency.
One way to test for basic math proficiency is to include a simple math problem on your application when hiring temporary warehouse workers.
8. Forklift Operation and Other Equipment Handling
Temporary warehouse workers must ensure accurate order fulfillment to satisfy customers.
Certain roles require experience with forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyor systems. Workers with forklift certifications or machine-operating experience bring added value to warehouse operations, improving material movement efficiency and reducing the burden on manual labor.
If you are hiring temporary warehouse workers with the expectation they will be operating a forklift, make sure they are licensed to do so in Ontario.
9. Problem-Solving Abilities
Regulatory compliance awareness is crucial for temporary warehouse workers in Ontario.
Unexpected issues arise in warehouse settings, from stock shortages to equipment malfunctions. Workers who can think critically and respond to challenges effectively help maintain smooth operations. Quick decision-making in high-pressure situations prevents delays and ensures workflow continuity.
10. Dependability and Work Ethic
Reliability is one of the most sought-after traits in warehouse workers. Punctuality, commitment to scheduled shifts, and a strong work ethic contribute to an efficient workforce. Absenteeism and tardiness can disrupt operations and strain existing staff, making dependability a critical hiring factor.
As a hiring manager, monitor the attendance of any temporary warehouse workers you hire early on to ensure they are dependable.
11. Strong Communication Skills
Warehouse workers need to understand verbal and written instructions clearly. Effective communication helps prevent errors, ensures tasks are completed correctly, and fosters a more cohesive work environment. Reporting damages, delays, or discrepancies promptly enhances efficiency. These skills can be assessed during the interview process.
12. Knowledge of Warehouse Technology
Modern warehouses utilize various technologies, including inventory tracking software and automated picking systems. Workers with experience in using handheld scanners, RFID technology, and warehouse management software contribute to faster processing and fewer errors.
13. Organizational Skills
Maintaining a structured and clean workspace improves efficiency and safety. Workers should follow best practices for storing goods, labeling inventory correctly, and minimizing clutter to streamline operations. Proper organization also helps with inventory control and order fulfillment.
14. Customer Order Fulfillment Expertise
Accurate and timely order fulfillment directly impacts customer satisfaction. Workers who understand packing standards, quality checks, and correct labeling help minimize mispicks and returns. Efficient order handling strengthens a company’s reputation and customer loyalty.
Look for previous experience in warehouses and in different roles such as order picker when hiring temporary warehouse workers.
15. Multitasking in a Fast-Paced Environment
Warehouses are dynamic, requiring workers to juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously. Balancing picking, packing, loading, and inventory tasks efficiently is crucial, particularly during peak seasons or high-demand periods.
16. Regulatory Compliance Awareness
Understanding Ontario’s labor laws, workplace safety standards, and hazardous materials handling regulations is valuable. Workers who follow compliance requirements help businesses avoid fines, legal issues, and operational disruptions.
When hiring a temporary warehouse worker, ensure they are properly trained in Ontario’s worker health and safety awareness in 4 steps. At GHRC, we ensure all our employees receive this training.
17. Experience with Shipping and Receiving Procedures
Workers involved in shipping and receiving must be familiar with packing, labeling, loading, and unloading processes. Understanding carrier logistics, scheduling, and documentation ensures efficient warehouse operations and timely deliveries.
18. Soft Skills That Make a Difference
Beyond technical abilities, attitude matters. Workers who demonstrate a positive outlook, willingness to learn, and professionalism contribute to a more productive workplace. Respect, accountability, and enthusiasm make temporary workers more valuable assets.
Conclusion
Hiring the right temporary warehouse workers in Ontario is about more than just filling roles; it’s about ensuring efficiency, safety, and operational success. Identifying candidates with the right mix of physical capabilities, technical knowledge, and interpersonal skills helps temporary warehouse workers function smoothly and meet demand fluctuations with confidence.
If you are looking to hire temporary warehouse workers in Ontario, reach out to us today. Our experienced employment agency can provide you with skilled workers who possess the essential skills needed for success in warehouse operations.
