Order Picker in Flanders: How to Find the Right Job?

What exactly does an order picker do?

As an order picker, you are responsible for collecting products in a warehouse. You receive an order list or scanner and retrieve the correct items from the shelves. Depending on the company, you work with a pallet truck, forklift, or an electric cart. You check quantities, pack goods, and prepare them for shipment. Accuracy is important because mistakes lead to incorrect deliveries.

The job is physical: you walk a lot, lift boxes, and sometimes work in cold or refrigerated areas. Nevertheless, it is an accessible position where you can grow quickly. Many companies offer internal training, for example to obtain a forklift certificate.

How much do you earn as an order picker in Flanders?

The salary of an order picker depends on experience, shifts, and the sector. Starters without experience often earn the minimum wage according to the joint committees, but with shift premiums and allowances for night or weekend work, the hourly rate increases quickly. On average, you can expect a gross monthly salary between €1,800 and €2,400. If you work in the food or pharmaceutical sector, wages are often higher.

Students and flexi-jobbers receive a favorable net salary because they fall under specific regulations. As an order picker, there is often a good balance between effort and pay.

What types of contracts are available?

• Student contract: ideal for those who want to earn extra during the holidays. You do not build up social rights, but you pay less tax.
• Flexi-job: for those who already work at least 4/5 for another employer. Your net income is particularly attractive because it is not taxed.
• Temporary contract: often day or week contracts, with the prospect of permanent work. Good for building experience.
• Permanent contract: after a positive temporary period, many order pickers can count on an indefinite contract.

On our platform, you can easily filter by these contract types, so you only see vacancies that match your situation.

What skills and qualifications do you need?

A specific diploma is not required for most order picker positions. Basic knowledge of Dutch is important to understand instructions and work safely. A forklift certificate is a plus, but you are often trained internally. Physical condition, punctuality, and a team spirit are the most important assets.

Experience with scanners or a forklift certificate speeds up your hiring, but even without it, there are plenty of opportunities.

How do you quickly find a job as an order picker in Flanders?

The fastest way is a platform that only aggregates logistics vacancies. This way you avoid the noise of IT and office jobs. Our tool allows you to filter by region (for example order picker vacancies in Ghent or Antwerp) and by contract type. Within three clicks, you see an up-to-date list of available jobs. Sign up and your application is sent immediately.

Difference between order picker and warehouse worker?

An order picker focuses on collecting goods for specific orders. A warehouse worker has a broader range of tasks: loading and unloading, inventory management, processing returns. In smaller warehouses, these roles often overlap. In vacancies, you sometimes see both terms used interchangeably, but the core of order picking is accurately preparing orders.

Benefits of working as an order picker

• Start quickly: due to high demand, you often start immediately after your application.
• Flexibility: many jobs offer shifts, day or night work, so you can find a rhythm that suits you.
• Growth: you can become a team leader, planning employee, or specialize in logistics processes.

Tips for your application

Update your CV with relevant experience, even if it's just a student job. Be honest about your availability. In a job interview, showing that you are motivated and have no problem with physical work is often enough to get a chance. Some companies also invite you for a trial day to see if the job suits you.