Before starting any activity, the new employee must become familiar with the company’s facilities, understand the distribution of departments, and know where important areas such as goods reception, storage, shipping, and customer service are located. Familiarity with the space helps prevent accidents and facilitates safe movement. Additionally, it is important to respect signage and follow the defined operational flows. Prior knowledge of the environment reduces errors and increases productivity from the first days of work, demonstrating commitment and professional conduct.
Mandatory participation in initial training
Every new employee in the wholesale sector must participate in mandatory training before taking on their duties. These trainings focus on equipment usage, load handling techniques, customer service, and the company’s internal rules.
Read more related content:
– The importance of understanding the company’s values and dynamics before the job interview
– Practical tips to start your career as a forklift operator: required courses and training
During this phase, behavioral issues, workplace ethics, and teamwork are also addressed. Companies that prioritize safety and operational quality require participation in integration training. Actively engaging in these training sessions is a way to gain the confidence needed to perform efficiently from day one in the sector.
Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The use of Personal Protective Equipment is a legal and indispensable requirement for working in wholesale. PPE must be used according to company guidelines and adapted to the performed function. Common items include helmets, gloves, ergonomic belts, steel-toe boots, and reflective vests. It is the employee’s duty to use the equipment correctly and report any damage to the responsible department. Failure to use PPE may result in warnings or removal from duties. Personal safety is the responsibility of each professional and begins with conscious actions.
Safe techniques for handling loads
Handling heavy goods must follow specific techniques to preserve the physical integrity of the employee. One of the main rules is to avoid bending the spine when lifting loads. Ideally, one should bend the knees, keep the load close to the body, and use leg strength. Sudden movements or twisting must be avoided. Moreover, when the weight is high, equipment such as pallet trucks, carts, or forklifts must be used. Training in ergonomics and safe handling must be strictly followed. Failure to comply with these guidelines can result in serious injuries and work absences.
Workplace organization
A well-organized environment directly influences operational efficiency. All employees must keep their areas clean, with materials stored properly and no obstructions in the aisles. Out-of-place products, torn packaging, or scattered objects pose safety risks. The use of labels, colors, and signage helps with quick item identification and improves logistics. Areas should be organized based on product output volume, respecting rotation and accessibility criteria. Working in a well-structured space makes daily routines easier and helps prevent accidents.
Rules for stock control and verification
Stock control in wholesale follows strict rules to ensure information accuracy. Every product entering or leaving must be recorded in the system. Employees responsible for verification must check quantities, barcodes, expiration dates, and the product’s condition. It is forbidden to release products without prior verification or manipulate system data without authorization. Lack of attention can result in financial losses and disorganization. Therefore, following internal procedures is essential to maintain balance between demand, storage, and continuous supply.
Customer service standards
Customer service in wholesale must be courteous, attentive, and patient. Employees should be in uniform, maintain a professional attitude, and promptly address questions or requests. Speaking clearly, avoiding slang, and staying solution-focused are recommended practices.
Read more related content:
– Large supermarkets: tips for dealing with intense work and demanding customers
– Solutions to common wholesale network problems: be a prepared employee
It is never allowed to argue with the customer or raise one’s voice. In case of problems, the department head should be called. The company’s image is directly linked to the quality of service provided, and employees who follow these rules stand out for good relationships and competence.
Clear communication between departments
The wholesale environment involves various teams working simultaneously. Therefore, clear communication between departments is essential to avoid errors. Instructions must be relayed correctly to avoid misunderstandings and incomplete information. The use of walkie-talkies, internal messages, or notice boards facilitates this process. Every employee must report anomalies, delays, or material shortages to the responsible parties. Hiding information or failing to report problems is a serious offense. Transparency and constant data exchange contribute to the proper functioning of the supply and service chain.
Infographic: Rules for operating forklifts and pallet trucks
🟢 Specific training
Only certified operators can use the equipment.
🟢 Daily inspection
Check brakes, tires, horn, and fuel before each use.
🟢 Respect the load limit
Never exceed the capacity indicated by the manufacturer.
🟢 No passengers allowed
Do not carry people on forklifts or pallet trucks.
🟢 Mandatory use of PPE
Helmet, gloves, and boots must always be worn.
🟢 Controlled speed
Follow internal signage and traffic areas.
Personal and professional hygiene
Maintaining personal hygiene is a requirement for all wholesale employees. Presentation must be appropriate, with clean uniforms, tied hair (when necessary), and hands always sanitized. Employees with symptoms of contagious illnesses must immediately inform their supervisors. In the case of handling food or sensitive products, extra care must be taken. Environmental hygiene includes proper disposal of packaging, cleaning of common areas, and care of restrooms and lunch areas. Lack of hygiene compromises the company’s image and can lead to warnings and dismissals.
Planning and punctuality in meeting schedules
Punctuality is a basic rule in the wholesale sector. Arriving at the set time, taking breaks as instructed, and respecting work hours are expected behaviors. Unjustified absences or frequent delays disrupt the department’s routine and affect team members. Personal planning is also important: organizing transport, meals, and clothing in advance prevents unforeseen issues. Non-compliance with these rules may result in warnings and negatively affect professional performance. Consistently meeting schedules reflects responsibility and commitment to the role.
Shelf restocking precautions
Restocking shelves requires attention, especially with heavy or fragile products. Rules dictate that larger items should be placed on lower shelves, while smaller or lighter ones go on top. Fast-moving products must be easily accessible, and those nearing expiration should be highlighted. Products must never be stacked beyond the indicated limit. Leaving open boxes or loose items in aisles is also prohibited. Visual organization affects customer perception and service flow. Employees who follow these guidelines directly contribute to store safety and efficiency.
Rules for handling perishable products
Perishable products require special care. Rules state they must be stored in refrigerated areas at the manufacturer’s recommended temperature. Handling must be done with gloves, hairnets, and under proper sanitary conditions. Expired or non-standard items must be discarded immediately. It is forbidden to repackage perishable goods without authorization or mix them with items from other categories. Expiration control must be done daily and recorded according to company guidelines. Breaking these rules can endanger consumer health and lead to legal sanctions against the company.
Waste disposal procedures
The wholesale environment generates a large amount of waste, and disposal must follow clear rules. Paper, plastics, product remnants, and damaged materials must be separated according to recycling guidelines. Expired or unfit products must be recorded and safely discarded. It is forbidden to leave waste in traffic areas or mix them with good products. The company may establish selective collection points and inspection routines. Employees who respect these procedures help keep the environment clean, prevent contamination, and demonstrate commitment to sustainability.
Teamwork behavior
Teamwork in wholesale is based on respect, cooperation, and empathy. Coexistence rules require employees to help one another, communicate respectfully, and avoid conflicts. Disrespectful behavior, offensive language, or hindering colleagues’ performance is prohibited. Group harmony contributes to overall efficiency and improves the professional environment. Interpersonal issues should be taken to leadership for appropriate mediation. Working as a team is not only a functional requirement but also a differentiator that helps achieve goals more quickly and with better quality.
Ongoing performance evaluation
Performance evaluation is part of the routine in wholesale. Employees are assessed based on punctuality, productivity, rule compliance, and professional conduct. The company may conduct tests, observe daily behavior, and collect feedback from peers and supervisors. Those who show dedication and continuous improvement may be promoted or assigned more responsible roles. On the other hand, frequent rule violations can lead to formal warnings. Being open to learning and suggestions is a way to ensure professional growth and job stability.
Health and well-being care
The work environment demands energy, so taking care of physical and mental health is part of preparation for wholesale work. Eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep improve task performance. Breaks must be respected to avoid physical strain.
Read more related content:
– Large supermarkets: tips for dealing with intense work and demanding customers
– Solutions to common wholesale network problems: be a prepared employee
Mental health can be preserved with team support, good relationships, and company-promoted wellness practices. Valued employees tend to perform better and stay longer in their roles. Well-being at work is everyone’s responsibility and a key part of daily performance.
Commitment to rules and professional growth
Following the company’s established rules and practices is the first step toward advancement in the wholesale sector. In addition to technical knowledge, ethical behavior, the ability to handle challenges, and commitment to collective goals are valued. Complying with regulations, seeking continuous training, and delivering results are attitudes that highlight the employee. The wholesale environment offers opportunities for those willing to learn, collaborate, and exceed goals. By respecting preparation stages and applying acquired knowledge, professionals build a solid and promising career in this challenging field.