Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand Salary Guide 2025: Median $40,240
The median annual wage for Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand is $40,240, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That works out to about $19 per hour, with half of workers earning between $31,270 and $55,140. This occupation employs nearly 3 million people in the U.S., making it one of the largest manual labor roles.
How much Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand earn
The national median salary is $40,240, but pay ranges widely. The lowest 10% earn $31,270 or less, while the top 10% earn $55,140 or more. The mean annual wage is $42,260, reflecting some workers earning above the median.
Wages vary by industry. Workers in warehousing and storage often see higher pay due to demand and shift differentials. Entry-level positions typically start near the 10th percentile, but experience and certifications can boost earnings into the top bracket.
Pay by state
Location heavily influences pay. The highest-paying state is Minnesota, where the average annual wage is $46,280. Washington follows at $46,190, then the District of Columbia ($45,740), North Dakota ($45,690), and Colorado ($45,370).
Lower-paying states include Mississippi at $36,400, Arkansas at $35,920, and Louisiana at $35,340. That's a gap of roughly $11,000 between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand
Entry requires a high school diploma or equivalent, though some employers accept less. On-the-job training is standard. New hires learn safety procedures, equipment operation, and inventory systems from experienced workers.
Steps to enter:
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for entry-level positions at warehouses, distribution centers, or freight companies.
- Complete on-the-job training, typically lasting a few weeks to a month.
- Optional: Obtain forklift certification or OSHA safety training to improve job prospects.
- Gain experience to qualify for higher-paying roles or supervisory positions.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 1.5% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. Even with slow growth, the large size of the occupation—2,950,280 workers—means about 384,300 openings each year due to workers leaving or retiring.
Demand is tied to e-commerce and warehousing. Automation may reduce some manual handling, but many tasks still require human judgment and dexterity.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand?
The mean hourly wage is about $19, according to the BLS. The median annual salary is $40,240.
What education do I need to become a Laborer and Freight, Stock, and Material Mover?
Typically a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is provided. Certifications like forklift operation can be helpful.
Is this occupation growing?
Growth is projected at 1.5% from 2024 to 2034, slower than average. But with nearly 3 million jobs, there are still many openings each year.
Which state pays the most for this job?
Minnesota pays the highest average wage at $46,280, followed by Washington ($46,190) and the District of Columbia ($45,740).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand data.