Hiring Material Handlers for Warehouse Projects: Key Duties and Specialized Skills

It’s hard enough to hire, train, and hang on to warehouse workers. Expecting them to stick around long enough to learn the specialized skills they need to handle warehouse projects, installations, and specialized operations is asking a lot.

And making mistakes during a project can cause all sorts of problems. Delays, damage, improper installation, downtime, accidents—it can get costly and slow you down.

The solution? Hiring experienced material handlers  who know the right way to get the job done and work efficiently.

The Benefits of Using Experienced Material Handlers

You cannot afford to put your operation at risk. When you hire experts who understand material handler duties and how to manage integrations, you get a long list of benefits.

Faster Ramp-Up Time

Seasoned handlers know how to read floor plans, adapt to unfamiliar layouts, and get up to speed without extensive supervision. Unlike general workers who may need days of training, experienced handlers can often start contributing within hours.

Safer Operations

Specialized projects typically involve heavy equipment, elevated platforms, and tight timelines—all of which increase risk. Workers with prior experience understand how to spot hazards, follow site-specific protocols, and minimize downtime due to accidents or compliance violations.

Equipment Familiarity

Whether it’s forklifts, pallet stackers, scissor lifts, overhead cranes, or specialized equipment for specific material handler duties, experienced crews have already been trained on (and used) the machinery these projects require. That reduces the risk of equipment misuse, costly errors, or injury during critical phases of an installation or relocation.

Integration With Technical Teams

Unlike standard pick-and-pack roles, project-based handling often involves collaboration with system integrators, installers, engineers, and contractors. Skilled handlers know how to work in sync with these teams, follow instructions precisely, and anticipate what comes next in the build or move sequence.

Problem Solving on the Fly

Even with solid planning, things can change quickly. Experienced handlers can adapt on the spot, reorganizing staging areas, rerouting inventory flow, or troubleshooting delays without needing step-by-step direction.

Higher Quality of Work

From securing delicate equipment to navigating narrow aisles without damage, experienced material handlers take pride in precision. Their attention to detail can mean the difference between a successful installation and a costly rework.

Sourcing the Right Talent for Specialized Warehouse Projects

Hiring experienced material handlers is only part of the equation. Finding them quickly and ensuring they’re the right fit for the project scope is where many warehouse managers face challenges. Not every staffing agency understands the difference between someone who moves boxes and someone who can stage pallet rack components, work around electricians, or prep material for lift-and-set installation work.

Here are a few factors to keep in mind. Start by clarifying the type of project you’re running. Are you:

• Installing new racking systems?
• Relocating an entire facility?
• Integrating new conveyor lines or automation?

Get the Right Skill Set

Each scenario requires a different skill set. A team that handled a rack tear-down last month may not have the right capabilities for a mezzanine build or robotic system install. Look for labor partners who specialize in the equipment or process you’re working with.

It also helps if crews are cross-trained to handle multiple facets of your project. For example:

• Interpreting CAD layouts or installation drawings
• Assisting with bolt-up or mechanical assembly
• Coordinating with delivery schedules and staging plans
• Rigging and hoisting

Cross-trained labor adds flexibility and can keep your projects on track.

Don’t Underestimate Soft Skills

Material handlers on project sites need more than muscle. They must be dependable, punctual, and able to follow evolving directions without frustration. Many projects run multiple shifts or require tight coordination with vendors and trades, so clear communication and professionalism matter just as much as skill.

Consistency in Project Management

If you’re running a multi-site rollout, like installing racking at several distribution centers, consistency is key. Working with a labor partner who can deploy experienced handlers across regions makes for a smoother execution and less retraining.

The Right Labor Makes the Difference

Whether you’re reconfiguring your warehouse, setting up new systems, or relocating an entire facility, experienced material handlers can make or break the success of your project.

For experienced labor solutions tailored to warehouse projects, trust Conesco Storage Systems. Our teams are built for installation-ready work, with the know-how and professionalism to get the job done right. Contact us today to discuss your warehouse project.