How to Address Labour Shortages in Your Warehouse

Running a warehouse can be exhausting and sometimes, too much work. So, when labour shortages hit, it can feel even more complex and tiring than usual. You’re already responsible for overseeing the operations that seem to never end.

Warehouse operations depend on speed, accuracy, and consistency. But what happens when you’re missing pickers, packers, forklift drivers, or your inventory manager?

Let’s talk about how to address these shortages.

Find Out Who You’re Missing

Before going into a full-blown panic episode, get clear on where the real gaps are.

Is it seasonal? Is it a skills shortage? Or is it just mass burnout where your workers are quietly taking sick leaves and maybe even quitting?

If you have a new warehouse and are just getting around to hiring workers, the shortage could be more tied to the lack of availability of labour in the market. In either case, take the time to note down which type of workers you need.

Break it down by role, shift, and urgency. This will help you prioritise your next steps.

Partner with a Labour Hire Agency

When your core team isn’t enough, labour hire can step in to save the day. A good agency can hook you up with trained warehouse workers who actually know their way around.

If you’re in a high-demand zone like Perth and looking to hire locally, you can reach out to agencies offering labour hire Perth for a better match. These agencies often specialise in warehousing and can give you access to:

• Casual or temporary workers
• Long-term placements
• Specialised roles like forklift drivers and inventory clerks

Cross-Train Your Existing Staff

Don’t underestimate the power of a multi-skilled team. If you have someone in dispatch who can also pick orders, they can bridge the gap or shortage. Similarly, packers who can drive the forklift can lessen the burden and stress that comes with labour shortages.

Cross-training also keeps operations flowing even when certain roles are understaffed. It can:

• Reduce downtime
• Improve team morale
• Give you more flexibility with shift rotations

Automate What You Can

If you’re consistently low on staff, it might be time to upgrade your operations. Look at how the easiest and most entry-level tasks are being done. If there are areas where manual labour is no longer required, switch to automation.

Consider:

• Inventory software to reduce manual checks
• Barcode scanners for faster processing
• Conveyor belts or similar machinery, if your budget allows

Automation won’t replace your workers, but it can support them, leading to higher efficiency and lower strain.

Find and Fix Why People Are Leaving

Labour shortages don’t always happen to you. Sometimes, your work environment is what’s pushing people away from staying.

Ask yourself if:

• The shifts are too long or unpredictable
• You’re underpaying your staff compared to similar warehouses nearby
• The work culture is negative or uncomfortable
• Safety protocols are being followed

Small changes can go a long way. Even adding proper break areas, shift flexibility, or offering upskilling opportunities can make you a more attractive employer and lead to fewer shortages.