Warehouse Picker Packer

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, hand packers and packagers earn a median hourly wage of $18.50 in 2026, with the 10th percentile at $13.50 per hour and the 90th percentile at $24.00 per hour. Annual median earnings are $38,480 based on full-time work. Entry-level positions in warehouses start at $15.00 per hour on average.

The U.S. Department of Labor sets the federal minimum wage at $7.25 per hour for nonexempt packing jobs as of 2026, unchanged since July 24, 2009. Overtime pay is required at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours over 40 per week. States like New York require $15.00 to $18.00 per hour depending on region.

International workers need an H-2B visa for temporary non-agricultural packing jobs, with a FY2026 cap of 130,716 visas including supplements (66,358 for first half, 64,358 for second half). Employers must obtain labor certification from DOL and file Form I-129 with USCIS at least 75 days before start date. H-2B status is valid up to 12 months.

No formal education beyond 9th grade is required, and high school diploma is preferred but not mandatory for hand packing roles. Short-term on-the-job training lasts less than 1 month with no prior experience needed for 75% of positions. Physical ability to lift 50 pounds is typically required.