Devanner – job overview

2nd April 2025

Are you looking for a physical, hands-on role in a fast-paced environment? A job as a devanner could be the perfect fit for you! Devanners play a crucial role in warehouses, distribution centres, and logistics operations by unloading shipping containers and sorting goods for storage or distribution

What does a devanner do?

Devanners are responsible for efficiently unloading products from shipping containers, checking for damage, and ensuring goods are correctly sorted and stored. This role is vital in industries such as retail, food distribution, and manufacturing, where timely unloading and processing of goods are essential to keeping supply chains running smoothly. The job can be physically demanding, requiring heavy lifting, repetitive movements, and working in varying temperatures.

Typical tasks & duties

Unloading goods from shipping containers
Sorting and stacking products for storage or dispatch
Checking products for damage and reporting issues
Working efficiently to meet unloading deadlines
Using equipment like pallet jacks and forklifts (if certified)
Keeping work areas clean and safe
Following health and safety guidelines, including correct lifting techniques

Skills & experience employers look for

No formal qualifications required – entry-level roles available
Physical fitness, as the job involves heavy lifting and repetitive movements
Ability to work efficiently under time constraints
Strong teamwork skills to coordinate unloading with others
Good attention to detail to check for damaged or incorrect stock
Previous warehouse or logistics experience is a plus but not essential
Forklift license (F endorsement or OSH certificate) can be an advantage

Typical salary for a devanner in New Zealand

Devanner salaries can vary based on location, experience, and industry. As an indication, typically pay rates for this work in New Zealand are around or just over the minimum hourly wage*, with opportunities for overtime and career progression in warehousing and logistics.

Interested in becoming a devanner?

If you're looking for reliable work with immediate start options, we may be able to help! Our recruitment advisers are always looking for motivated individuals to join our clients in manufacturing and production roles.

Contact us today to learn more about available devanner jobs near you!

*Note: these are indicative hourly rates only to reflect the wide range of work opportunities in these roles across New Zealand. Actual hourly rates are subject to change, they also depend on location, experience and skills required. We can give candidates a better idea of what Martin Personnel will pay for specific jobs when they register with us.