Because of the continuous growth of consumerism, warehouse and storage companies continue to be on a roll. In fact, there are more than 500 million square feet of warehouses throughout the nation.

If you plan on delving into the warehousing industry, then you know that size almost always equates to stability. If you want to work for the biggest names in the storage industry, then make sure to consider these largest warehouse companies in the United States.

1. Exel – DHL Supply Chain Americas

When Exel says that is the leading contract logistics provider in the Americas, it is not an understatement. Exel continues to be at the forefront of supply chain management, catering solutions to companies immersed in automotive, industrial, consumer, and retail industries, to name a few.

Headquartered in Westerville, Ohio, Exel dominates the top spot of the largest warehouse companies in the continent. After all, it is the supply chain arm of DHL, the world’s leading logistics group.

To date, the company owns 109 MSF of raw storage space. This equates to a total of 468 warehouses servicing numerous trades. With more than 400,000 employees under its belt, Exel continues to provide its excellent warehousing services through its 500 sites all around the world.

2. Genco ATC

Always the bridesmaid, but never the bride, Genco ATC remains as one of the largest warehouse companies in the continent. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Genco ATC owns 35 MSF of warehouses – which is a little more than 30% of Exel’s current holdings. Although this is the case, it proves to be one of the third-party logistics company that most corporations trust.

Operating since 1898, Genco ATC had its humble beginnings as the H. Shear Trucking Company. More than a centennial after its institution, it now boasts of 140 warehouses strategically located throughout the nation.

3. Americold

Losing 0.5 MSF to the silver-ranked warehousing company is Americold. With 34.5 MSF of storage space, it goes down to the history books as one of the country’s largest warehouse companies.

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Americold currently has 182 warehouses under its name. True enough, the company specializes in consolidation, transportation, and warehousing services.

Apart from its immense space, Americold differs from other storage companies because of its temperature-controlled logistics and warehouse offers. In fact, it has the largest cold storage network in the world with more than 1 billion cubic feet of storage space. With these properties, the company can cater to the stressful demands of the food industry.

4. CEVA Logistics Americas

Making business flow – this is the motto of CEVA Logistics Americas, one of the largest warehouse companies in the continent. Based in Houston Texas, CEVA Logistics is one of the youngest companies in the list. After all, it first started out as a single truck enterprise based in Australia.

More than two scores after its founding, CEVA Logistics Americas now has 164 warehouses that translate to 33 MSF of space. With 42,000 employees under its helm, CEVA Logistics now offers freight management services to 17 regions all around the globe.

5. Jacobson Companies

Based in Des Moines, Iowa, Jacobson Companies is one of the five largest warehouse companies in the region. As one of the world’s biggest logistics provider, it also deals with intermodal rail, freight brokerage, distribution, and warehousing.

With 32 MSF of warehouse space, the company maintains its glimmering name through a total of 141 storage facilities in the country. This is just the tip of the iceberg though, as the company operates in 27 countries through a total of 863 satellite offices. It has recently established an off-shore legal entity, Jacobson Global Logistics, which is based in Hong Kong.

Now that you know the largest warehouse companies in the country, it’s high time that you applied for any of its vacancies. Good luck!

While the warehouse distribution jobs are not exactly the dream jobs of many, such occupations can be fulfilling – both mentally and financially. If there are many distribution job openings in your area, you can make the most out of these opportunities by engaging in the best warehouse distribution jobs:

Warehouse Manager

If you have got what it takes to be a leader, then the best warehouse distribution job for you is that of a warehouse manager. For this work, you need to do the following:

• Coordinate and schedule shipments.
• Maintain adequate number of supplies.
• Manage inventories.
• Supervise warehouse workers.
• Monitor activities and implement programs that will enhance/streamline such processes.

As a warehouse manager, you get a chance to earn the average annual salary of $48,669. This is just the median, as you can earn as much as $70,000 per year.

Apart from the competitive pay and engaging benefits, the job of warehouse manager comes with a high level of satisfaction – at least according to majority surveys. With that being said, this is indeed one of the best warehouse distribution jobs for you.

Warehouse Supervisor

Another one of the best warehouse distribution jobs is that of a warehouse supervisor. For this line of work, you need to oversee the efficient and safe movement of products within the distribution center. You are also responsible for meeting the deadlines and distribution center targets. In essence, you need to direct the workers towards proficient production.

Apart from ensuring the smooth flow of warehouse processes, a supervisor also needs to have good mentorship skills. As a middle manager, you are also responsible for the training and development of the staff members.

So why is a warehouse supervisor job one of the best warehouse distribution jobs in the planet? For one, you get the chance to earn an average $46,314 per year. Depending on your skills, you can take home as much as $60,000 annually.

Shipping and Receiving Supervisor

The warehouse is a conglomerate of many activities, the most vital of which are shipping and receiving. To ensure the smooth flow of the processes, a shipping and receiving supervisor is needed.

The primary responsibility of a shipping and receiving supervisor is inventory maintenance, keeping at par with the incoming and outgoing goods in the warehouse. He is also responsible for verification of the state and quantities of the said items. Most importantly, he needs to ensure that goods are shipped on time.

With a median annual salary of $41,876, a shipping and receiving supervisor is considered as one of the best warehouse distribution jobs in the United States. This is just the average, as the upper 10% of the workforce can earn as much as $58,000 yearly.

Warehouse Material Handler

If it’s your first time to engage in warehousing, you need not worry as there are best warehouse distribution jobs for entry-level employees. A good example is that of a warehouse material handler, who is responsible for loading and unloading materials from pallets, vehicles, etc.

It can be said that the warehouse material handler is one of the most important employees in the distribution center, as he is the backbone of the workforce. After all, he needs to perform a multitude of functions that maintain the smooth operations within the warehouse.

If you want to engage in these best warehouse distribution jobs, you don’t have to obtain a college diploma (although it would be necessary for higher-ranking positions.) With a high school diploma or a GED equivalent, you can get started on your work as a warehouse material handler.

For this job, you can take home an average of $32,085 per year. However, depending on your skills or the company you are working for, you stand to earn as much as $48,000 yearly.

Congratulations, you are now part of the world’s budding workforce! As a first-time applicant, you might feel some butterflies in your stomach prior to your first interview. This is completely normal; it is merely a matter of getting over the first-time jitters.

Want to impress your first prospective employer? Then here are some tips that can help you ace your first-ever job interview:

Come prepared.

Winning the battle (or your job interview) entails careful preparation. If you want to get hired, then you must come to the battlefield prepared. Before that dreaded schedule, make sure to do the following:

• Learn more about the company. In this digital age, researching about a firm is as easy as searching it online. Brushing up your knowledge about the company can help you during the interview.
• Research more about the job. What is the job you are applying for? What are the responsibilities that it entails? You need to know these fully before you step inside the interview room.
• Stream some job interview videos. Want to know how to conduct yourself in an interview? There are many helpful how-to videos that you can watch online.
• Practice the interview portion. Ask a family member or a friend to simulate the interview for you. Ask them for feedback and suggestions right after.

Be early for the interview.

Make a good impression on the interviewer by arriving earlier than the specified time. Not only will this give you the chance to navigate through the mazes en route to the location, this will show the interviewer that you are truly committed to the opportunity that he has given to you.

Demonstrate proper posture.

Do not slouch or hunch your shoulders. Keep your back straight, even if it is a little bit uncomfortable. Remember, the interview is just for a few minutes.

Establish eye contact.

Don’t be shy – look straight into the eyes of the interviewer. Avoid looking into other directions (specifically that of the ceiling or the floor.) Establishing eye contact shows that you are confident about yourself and your skills – even if you are just a new applicant.

Listen closely.

Your sweaty palms and palpitating heart might be distracting you, but do make sure to listen intently to what the interviewer has to say. If not, you might end up answering the question incorrectly. Do not be shy to say “Beg your pardon” if you do not understand some aspects of his questions.

Be calm and collected.

Your heart might be racing, but you don’t have to show it! During your interview, stay as calm and collected as possible. Flush out the negativity in your head and focus on what the interviewer has to say. If you feel overwhelmed, pause for a while and take a deep breath. Collect your thoughts before you respond once again.

Be confident.

You might be a newbie who does not know much about the industry – this is expected. But this does not mean that you should be negative about your lack of experience. Do not be afraid to exude some confidence. Believe in yourself! For sure, this optimism will transcend to the interviewer.

Be honest.

Are there any activities that might hinder you from accomplishing your job to the fullest of your potentials? Do not be afraid to tell it to the interviewer. However, make sure to tell him that you are willing to make adjustments in order to adhere to the company’s specified schedules.

Say thank you.

Don’t be in a hurry to storm out the door. Say thank you and offer a handshake to the interviewer. After all, he has given you a chance to showcase your potentials.

Your first job interview might be nerve-wracking – but you can overcome the obstacles by following these tips. Who knows? You might be hired on your first try!

Feeling stressed and tired after a long day at work? Let the anxieties melt away by rewarding yourself with a pleasurable activity after heading out of the office. Escape from the clutches of paperwork (even your hotheaded boss) by rewarding yourself with any of these relaxing endeavors:

1. Exercise!

Feeling emotionally battered after a long day at the office? Chase the blues away by running around the park or hitting the gym. Exercise – while tiring – can uplift your spirit. That’s because it leads to the release of endorphins – the body’s feel-good hormones. Not only will exercise make you feel better, it can stave off the pounds that you have gained because of stress eating.

2. Stretch your muscles.

Are you too tired to do some exercises after work? Well then, you can always revert to the gentler activity that is stretching. Not only does it relax your tightened muscles (mainly due to stress), it improves range of motion and flexibility as well. Best of all, it can enhance your posture, as well as your blood circulation. These are especially helpful if you are confined to a chair for most of your day.

3. Walk Your Dog.

Are you guilty of not spending enough time with your dog? Give him the attention that he yearns for – and the stress relief you are looking for – by taking him out on a run. Not only will it give you the bonding time that you both need, a stroll with your pooch can help take your mind away from office-related problems. Who knows? You might find the pet-loving soulmate you are looking for along the way.

4. Cook.

If you are a self-confessed foodie – or better yet, a culinary rock star, then cooking after a day of hard work will definitely relieve you from the anxieties at the office. It does not matter if you follow your grandmother’s recipe. You can let it all loose and just ‘wing’ it. What matters is the cooking process, as the ability to whip up great food will surely melt your work worries right away.

5. Drink.

The bar might be your first go-to after a long day at work, but the truth of the matter is constant alcoholism will not solve your problems. However, if you are hankering for a sip of alcohol, a glass of wine should do the trick. A serving prior to hitting the sack will help you relax, chill out and calm down.

On a positive note, a glass of alcohol a day can also work wonders for your heart.

6. Read.

Take your mind off your work-related stresses by focusing your mind on a good read. Pick a good book, or catch up on the day’s hottest events by reading the newspaper. Whatever form of literary piece you choose, reading will surely take your office problems away.

7. Take a Bath.

Cleanse your mind and body simultaneously by engaging in a relaxing bath after work. Bath bubbles and aromatherapy candles are optional, but they can help eradicate the tension almost immediately!

8. Meditate.

Sometimes, a little down time is just what you need to distract your mind from work squabbles. That’s where meditation comes into play. This zen-inducing activity involves simple breathing activities that can erase the bothersome worries from the back of your head.

9. Go on a vacation.

If all else fails, then why not take a breather from the office and go on a well-deserved vacation? Seeing new sights and exploring novel territories will surely take your mind off the stresses at work. While waiting for your much-anticipated vacation leave, build up the excitement by planning your itinerary or googling the interesting sites in the city or country you wish to visit.

 

 

Do you often feel a sharp pain whenever you flex your wrist? How about a tingling or burning sensation? Unfortunately, these can be signs that you are suffering from a common condition often found in the warehouse: carpal tunnel syndrome.

Although this disorder is very rampant in warehouse workers, you can break free from this uncomfortable, occupation-related condition. Here are some tips that can help you prevent carpal tunnel injuries while you work your hardest:

Utilize ergonomically-designed controls.

Warehouse workers, especially those who operate transporters, are at a huge risk of suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. The repetitive nature of wrist-twisting – a necessary act in order to maneuver the transporter – is said to be the culprit behind carpel tunnel injury in most employees

Since wrist-twisting cannot be avoided, the best way to circumvent the pain and discomfort associated with transporter operation is to make use of ergonomically-designed controls. Make sure to request one from your boss. After all, an operator-friendly control is definitely cheaper than health insurance claims (especially if you need to undergo surgery.)

Reduce your force and lighten your grip.

More often than not, individuals diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome make use of excessive force and tightened grips in their jobs. To prevent the development of such a disorder, make sure to reduce your force and your grip. For example, use a lighter force when operating the controls in your transporter.

Maintain the proper form.

Bending your wrist up and down frequently can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. In order to avoid this, you need to maintain the proper form: the wrist should be relaxed and in the middle.

While manipulating your transporter, position your wrist so that it is at the height of your elbow – or lower. While carrying heavy objects, maintain the same form as well.

Mind your posture.

You might not notice it, but improper posture while carrying objects or operating the transporter can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. How does this happen? When your back is hunched, the muscles in your neck and shoulders are gradually shortened, while neck nerves get compressed. Such nerve compression can take a toll on your wrists – and therefore lead to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Take a break.

Sometimes, when you are all focused on your warehouse work, you forget to take a breather. While this might earn you points with your employer, it can lead to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. Whenever you can, take a break – so you can stretch your wrist or give it a rest. Change your position or perform another activity in order to give your wrist its much-deserved breather.

Keep it warm.

Most carpal tunnel syndrome injuries are developed in working environments with cold temperatures. If you need to mobilize goods to extremely cold stockrooms and warehouses, make it a point to wear fingerless gloves. These can keep your wrists warm and pain-free.

Wear a wrist splint.

Overuse of the hand and the wrist, as well as constant flexing of the wrist, are some of the biggest causes of carpal tunnel syndrome. If these activities are common in your daily job, a good way to prevent the pain related with the condition is to wear a wrist splint. This can keep the affected wrist in a neutral and relaxed position.

Consume a Vitamin B6-rich diet.

New studies show that workers with carpal tunnel syndrome usually suffer from Vitamin B6 insufficiency. If you do not want to develop this work-hampering disease, then make sure to consume a diet rich in Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6.) Foods brimming with this nutrient include bran, pistachios, raw garlic, liver, fish and sesame seeds.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful and uncomfortable condition that can minimize your productivity at work. Worse, it can lead to surgery if left untreated. So before it leads to this – follow these tips! After all, prevention is better than cure.

In this modern day and age, scoring a job can only be possible if you fill up the application form appropriately. While you view might this as a piece of cake, careful and thoughtful filling up will actually help get you the job you are hoping for.

Want to have a successful career switch? Then make sure to follow these tips on filling out a job application:

Read the instructions carefully.

Don’t just skim through the instructions; read them carefully. While most job application forms might have the same mechanics, some might have entirely different specifications. If you want to get that job, you need to make sure to answer the form correctly. The only way you can do that is if you follow the instructions to the tee. If you skip this, you might end up filling the form incorrectly – and this will surely be a point against you.

Keep it neat.

Want to convey a good impression? The best way to do so is to keep your form neat and tidy. Your future depends on it, for crying out loud – so avoid folding it, wrinkling it, or even tainting it with the littlest of stains.

Keep it clear.

Your application form mirrors your professionalism, so write legibly with black ink. Avoid accomplishing a form with a pencil. If you have terrible handwriting, have your answers typewritten or computerized.

No blanks please.

There might be some parts in the form that are not applicable to your case. Instead of leaving them blank, write N/A or not applicable.

Be honest.

Honesty is the best policy, especially in filling out application forms. Say you have been fired – you do not have to necessarily put the words “terminated.” Simple terms such as “Job Ended” or “Contract Ended” will demonstrate why you got out of the job – in a not-so-negative way.

Remember: When this comes up in the interview, be sure to tell the employer what happened in your previous job. But make sure to choose your words carefully! 

Be flexible about the salary.

You might have expectations about the salary – and writing a certain figure on the application form can leave you in limbo, as it might be too high or too low for the company’s standards. The safest answer is “negotiable,” as it can make you more desirable to the eyes of the employer. This means you are flexible to the terms that the firm might have at hand.

State answers that relate to the job.

Good news: you can use personal questions such as “volunteer activities” and “hobbies” to your advantage. If you have engaged in such activities that relate to the job, then make sure to put it in. For example, if you are applying for a teaching job, then make sure to include your education-related voluntary stints in college.

Make sure that all the data are accurate.

Ensure that all the entries you put there – your references’ names, addresses and contact numbers – are accurate and updated. Your prospective employer might call them up – and if he comes across a wrong number – your chances of getting hired will surely go down the drain. Don’t waste his valuable time!

Most importantly, proofread your application form!

You might have followed all the aforementioned tips – but if you do not proofread your application form, your efforts might end up in futility. Wrong figures, spellings, grammar and syntax can make the employer think that you are sloppy. Of course, you do not want this! Proofread your form at least 2 to 3 times before sending it in.

Carefully filling out a job application form is one of the most crucial steps to employment. Don’t waste your golden chance! Follow the aforementioned tips in order to get your hands on that prized work opportunity.

Worried about your resume. since it is not as impressive as that of other applicants? While this might seal your deal, there is still hope! All you just need to do is make a good impression in a job interview. After all, first impressions last!  

Make yourself memorable in the eyes of the employer by keeping these interview tips in mind:

1. Be early.

Even if you are familiar with the place of interview, it pays to come early. This will give you enough time to park your car – or walk if there’s no spot near the building. You don’t want to get into the room all sweaty and jittery just because you had to run two blocks in order to reach the building.

2. Have all of the needed documents ready.

You might be asked about your former projects – of course, the best way to show your worth is to have all the pertinent documents in tow. While you might have done promising projects, don’t store them in dirty, stained folders. At least transfer them in a new set of folders before attending the job interview.

3. Dress Appropriately.

You might be a shirt and jeans type of guy, but save this staple for casual day outs. For job interviews, you need to dress appropriately. For men, come to the interview in a suit and tie. For women, a formal blouse paired with pants or a skirt is recommended.

Jewelries and fragrances should be kept to a minimum, so avoid bathing yourself with your favorite pour homme. Make sure to sport trimmed fingernails during the interview as well.

4. Do the Shake.

The shake of hands, that is. Upon entering the room, extend your hand for a warm initial handshake. Even if your interviewer does not extend his hand, reaching yours shows good will.

If you constantly suffer from a case of sweaty palms, remember to wipe the moisture away with a handkerchief before entering the interview room.

5. Mind Your Posture.

Waiting outside the interview room might take much of your energy, and as a result, you might find yourself fighting the urge to slouch. When your mind tells you to slouch, don’t! Improper posture might tell the interviewer that you just don’t care enough to get the job. The interview will last for just a few minutes – so keep your head up and maintain your good posture.

6. No Filler or Fluff.

Even if you have come to the interview with much eagerness and preparedness, there is no telling when the interviewer might stump you. If you suddenly find yourself off-guard, avoid muttering filler words such as “like” or “um.” Instead, try to gain some footing (and additional thinking time) by replying with “That’s a good question.”

7. Be Positive.

Avoid saying anything negative about your past job, bosses or co-employees, as this can give the interviewer a bad impression. Relay your enthusiasm and flexibility – as these are two important factors that interviewers are looking for in a potential hire.

8. Show Your Gratitude.

Remember: the interviewer has allotted a lot of time in order to converse with you. As such, it is important that you show gratitude for the effort he has extended. While you might be in a hurry to bolt out the door because of the need to empty your bladder – take some time to extend thanks to the interviewer.

Even if you have been on the job market for a couple of years, a new job interview can render you off-guard. So if you want to get hold of a new employment opportunity, then make sure to follow these tips on how to make a good first impression for a job interview.