Have you recently been hired by a warehouse, but you are unsure of what to expect? Check out these tips for your first day working at a warehouse for practical advice on how to handle your inaugural shift.

Wear Comfy Footwear

Depending on the warehouse you’re working at, there may or may not be a requirement for steel-toe boots, but you’ll always want to get a shoe that you’ll be comfortable standing in for eight or more hours. Consider getting orthopedic work shoes with custom insoles for optimal comfort.

In the beginning, as your body adjusts to the job, your feet will be killing you at the end of the day. It’s in the best interest of your short- and long-term health if you start managing any pain or stress from the job early. Good insoles will help prevent burnout, and it’ll make your quality of living higher during your off time.

Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re confused. Your team wants you to succeed, and they’ll be more than willing to help you. They would much rather help you than you fall behind on your work. They won’t expect you to pick everything up in one day, and even if you have previous experience, every warehouse has its standards and practices you’ll need to learn over time.

Work Smart

The standard warehouse does a lot of business in a day, with products constantly coming in and out of the facility. It’s strenuous work at times. If you aren’t working effectively, you most likely won’t complete all your work.

Especially around the cargo bay, with all its moving parts and heavy machinery, a lot could go wrong. You might be responsible for helping semi-trucks back in or unloading pallets with the forklift, and a mistake operating one of these machines could lead to severe injuries or lost product. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain clear communication in the loading dock.

Get Your Hands Dirty

Working in a warehouse is hard work. On your first couple of days, they may not expect you to do as much as the other employees, but before long, they’ll expect you to carry your equal share of the load. So, don’t be afraid to get a head start by tackling the strenuous jobs on your first few shifts. This extra effort will show your employers they’ve made the right choice in hiring you and that you’re prepared for the work ahead.

Hopefully, with these tips for your first day working at a warehouse, you’ll make a great first impression at your new job!