Life as a Package Handler: Insights from Switching Between UPS and FedEx

My recent experience working as a package handler at FedEx, after being fired from Amazon, has been both enlightening and physically demanding. FedEx, while offering a decent income, has its fair share of challenges that have ultimately pushed me to reconsider my role. This article delves into the day-to-day experience, the pros and cons, and the personal insights gained from this role.

Hard Work and Physical Demands

Compared to my time as a picker at Amazon, where my work involved mainly selecting and packing items, working as a package handler at FedEx is a constant workout. The role does not only require physical strength but also robust resilience to handle the weight of heavy packages all day long. Filling packages, scanning them, and ensuring they are properly loaded onto trucks, if excessive or done too slowly, can lead to employees being shouted at or even bullied. It's physically taxing, and I often leave work feeling exhausted.

Financial and Schedule Discrepancies

One of the major points of friction between working at Amazon and FedEx is the financial discrepancy. The pay at FedEx is notably the same as I received at Amazon, yet the lack of a fixed schedule is a significant drawback. Unlike Amazon, FedEx does not provide a consistent time frame for shift starts; we are called in intermittently throughout the day, making it difficult to plan for other obligations or responsibilities.

Flexibility and Personal Convenience

While some might see the flexibility as a benefit, in my case, it has more often been a source of frustration. We can come in at any time between 12pm and 4pm, which means there is no established routine. This inconsistent schedule contrasts starkly with Amazon's structured shifts, where breaks were allotted in a balanced manner. My experiences at FedEx have taught me to cherish the stability and predictability of a set schedule, which allowed for more personal time and planning.

Reevaluation and Future Plans

After being fired from Amazon, I started working at FedEx, and my experiences have been a mix of satisfaction and exasperation. Despite the hard work and physical exercise, there are aspects that keep me reconsidering my choice. I have had a good amount of time to weigh the pros and cons, and after working for 80 days, I am seriously contemplating quitting and going back to Amazon after the 90-day rehire window.

Comparative Analysis

Amazon offered a consistent schedule, regulated breaks, and a more controlled, less physically demanding environment. While FedEx provided only part-time work and an absence of a set schedule, it did offer a unique opportunity to perform physical labor and maintain a decent income. However, the inconsistencies and lack of support made the role less appealing.

Conclusion and Future Steps

Working as a package handler at FedEx has been a challenging but rewarding experience. The job affords ample physical activity and decent pay, which is appealing for those who enjoy hands-on labor. However, the lack of a fixed schedule and the inconsistent nature of the work can be frustrating and make the role less desirable.

For individuals looking for a job that involves physical exertion, becoming a package handler can be a viable option. However, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of the role, such as the lack of a set schedule, the physical demands, and the pay structure, to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional goals.

In conclusion, while I have gained valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of working as a package handler at FedEx, my ultimate decision to return to Amazon after 2 more months is rooted in the desire for a more stable and structured work environment.