Putaway

Term from Logistics industry explained for recruiters

Putaway is an essential warehouse process where items are moved from receiving areas to their designated storage locations. It's like organizing a giant walk-in closet – workers need to make sure everything goes in the right place so it can be found easily later. This process is crucial because proper putaway ensures efficient storage space use and makes it easier to find and retrieve items when needed. Many modern warehouses use computer systems (like WMS - Warehouse Management Systems) to help workers know exactly where to store items.

Examples in Resumes

Managed a team of 15 workers handling Putaway operations in a 500,000 sq ft warehouse

Improved Putaway efficiency by 30% through implementation of new scanning procedures

Supervised Put-away processes for high-volume retail distribution center

Typical job title: "Putaway Operators"

Also try searching for:

Warehouse Operator Putaway Associate Inventory Control Specialist Warehouse Team Member Material Handler Storage Operator Warehouse Worker

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you improve a warehouse's putaway efficiency?

Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies like optimizing storage locations based on item movement, implementing proper training programs, using technology for location tracking, and measuring key performance indicators (KPIs) to track improvement.

Q: How do you handle peak season putaway operations?

Expected Answer: Should explain managing increased workload through proper staffing, prioritizing critical items, maintaining organized receiving areas, and coordinating with other warehouse operations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What systems do you use to ensure accurate putaway?

Expected Answer: Should mention scanning systems, location verification processes, organizing items by type/size, and methods for double-checking work.

Q: How do you train new employees on putaway procedures?

Expected Answer: Should discuss hands-on training methods, safety procedures, use of equipment, and importance of accuracy in storage location assignment.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety considerations are important during putaway?

Expected Answer: Should mention proper lifting techniques, use of safety equipment, awareness of surroundings, and following warehouse safety rules.

Q: Explain the basic putaway process steps.

Expected Answer: Should describe receiving items, checking documentation, finding correct storage location, safely moving items, and confirming placement.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-1 years)

  • Basic warehouse safety knowledge
  • Understanding of storage locations
  • Operation of hand trucks and pallet jacks
  • Basic scanning and computer skills

Mid (1-3 years)

  • Forklift operation certification
  • Knowledge of inventory management systems
  • Team coordination
  • Problem-solving skills

Senior (3+ years)

  • Team supervision
  • Process improvement
  • Training and mentoring
  • Warehouse management system expertise

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No forklift certification when required
  • Poor attention to detail and accuracy
  • Limited understanding of safety procedures
  • No experience with warehouse management systems