What is a Fachlagerist (warehouse operative)?
A Fachlagerist/in is a trained warehouse specialist who is responsible for receiving, checking, storing, picking and dispatching goods, as well as documenting all stock movements and supporting accurate inventory management.
Type of training: Dual vocational training (company + vocational school)
Duration: 2 years
Practice: in logistics companies, distribution centres, wholesale, industry, etc.
Theory: at vocational school (warehouse processes, safety, IT systems, shipping, etc.)
Qualification: Final IHK examination as Fachlagerist/in
Next step (optional): + 1 extra year to qualify as Fachkraft für Lagerlogistik (warehouse logistics specialist)
Checking quantity and quality of incoming goods
Comparing deliveries with orders, delivery notes and invoices
Labelling and entering deliveries into the system
Placing goods in the correct storage locations
Observing storage conditions (temperature, humidity, special requirements)
Keeping the warehouse area clean and well organised
Picking items according to customer or production orders
Packing and securing goods safely for shipment
Labelling parcels and preparing them for carriers and freight forwarders
Loading and unloading trucks using forklift trucks, pallet trucks or manual handling
Securing loads in accordance with safety regulations
Recording stock movements in IT systems / WMS / ERP
Updating stock lists and supporting stocktakes and inventories
Reporting shortages, damages or irregularities
Logistics and freight forwarding companies
E-commerce and mail-order distribution centres
Industrial companies (automotive, pharmaceuticals, food, machinery, etc.)
Wholesale and retail companies with their own warehouses
Public and private storage and transshipment facilities
Accuracy and attention to detail
Strong organisational skills
Physical fitness and resilience
Teamwork and reliability
Logical thinking and efficient working style
Willingness to work shifts, depending on the company
1 additional year of training → Fachkraft für Lagerlogistik
Promotion to team leader, shift supervisor or warehouse manager
Further training as Logistikmeister/in (master craftsman in logistics)
Later, possible degree in logistics, supply chain management or business
| Aspect | Fachlagerist/in (2 years) | Fachkraft für Lagerlogistik (3 years) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 years | 3 years |
| Focus | Receiving, storing, picking and dispatching | Same tasks plus planning, optimisation and stock management |
| Responsibility | Primarily operational work | Additional organisational and process responsibility |
The Fachlagerist/in profession is a core building block of the logistics sector and is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on, well-structured work.
Offers strong employment prospects across many industries.
Provides a solid base for further development in logistics.
Combines physical activity with organisation and precision.
The editorial team of the website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and several sources. However, errors or incomplete information may still occur. Please treat this article as an initial guide only and always consult official authorities, chambers or career counselling services for binding information.
