TL;DR: Write a strong warehouse operative CV with the right skills, duties, and keywords. Includes an ATS-friendly example and tips for picking, packing, and FLT roles.
What Recruiters Look For in a Warehouse CV
Warehouse recruiters scan for specific skills and certifications: forklift licence (FLT), manual handling, health and safety awareness, picking and packing accuracy, and experience with warehouse management systems (WMS). They also look for reliability indicators — attendance records, shift flexibility, and physical fitness.
Essential Skills to Include
• Order picking and packing
• Goods-in and goods-out processing
• Forklift operation (counterbalance, reach truck — specify which)
• Inventory management and stock control
• RF/barcode scanner operation
• Manual handling and heavy lifting
• Health and safety compliance
• WMS software (SAP, Oracle, Manhattan — name the specific system)
• Loading and unloading vehicles
• Quality checking and returns processing
How to Describe Warehouse Experience
Quantify everything. Don't write "Responsible for picking orders." Instead write:
"Picked and packed an average of 150 orders per shift with 99.7% accuracy, consistently exceeding the team target of 120."
Other good examples:
• "Operated counterbalance forklift to load 40+ pallets daily across 3 loading bays"
• "Processed goods-in for 200+ SKUs daily using SAP WMS, maintaining 99.5% inventory accuracy"
• "Trained 5 new starters on picking processes and safety protocols"
ATS-Friendly Warehouse CV Structure
1. Contact Details
2. Professional Summary (mention years in warehousing, key certifications, and type of warehouse)
3. Key Skills (use the exact terms from the job advert)
4. Employment History (reverse chronological, with quantified duties)
5. Certifications (FLT licence, manual handling, first aid)
6. Education
Certifications That Strengthen Your CV
• Forklift Licence (RTITB or ITSSAR — specify type: counterbalance, reach, PPT)
• Manual Handling Certificate
• CSCS Card (for construction warehouse roles)
• First Aid at Work
• Fire Marshal Training
• IOSH Working Safely
List the issuing body and date obtained. Expired certificates should be noted as "renewal in progress" if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a forklift licence for all warehouse jobs?
No, but it significantly increases your options and earning potential. Many picking and packing roles don't require one, but supervisory and logistics roles usually do.
How long should a warehouse operative CV be?
One page is ideal for operative roles. Expand to two pages only if you have extensive experience or are applying for a supervisory position.