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4 Ways to Maximise
Gig Workers' Impact in Warehousing

The utilisation of gig workers is on the rise in nearly every industry, creating monumental shifts in the way we do business, and the warehousing space is no different. Learn the impacts of these workers and four key ways you can prepare your operations to overcome labour challenges.

by Darren Jorgenson

Taking an Uber to a local show, ordering your grocery delivery while you’re on the go or enjoying your favorite restaurants from the comfort of your own home – gig workers serve as the backbone of many modern conveniences. This type of ad-hoc work is on the rise in nearly every industry, creating monumental shifts in the way we do business. And the warehousing space is no different.

As workers crave flexibility and adaptability in their careers, labour dynamics shift, putting a strain on employers everywhere working to control costs, find labour and manage payroll. The rise of gig workers in the warehousing industry is no longer a trend to anticipate—it’s a reality to embrace. As companies navigate this new landscape, it’s crucial to consider how to harness the potential of gig workers effectively to optimise operations while ensuring employee safety, productivity and worker well-being.

Despite the novelty of flex-time and gig warehouse workers, the trend isn’t entirely new. For years, especially during peak holiday seasons, companies have used staffing agencies to keep up with demand. However, utilising gig workers for strictly seasonal work is no longer enough. Companies like HapiGig can offer experienced and reliable warehouse gig workers to absorb the unanticipated work.

And yet, it’s not that simple.

fortna
You can’t just have someone who lists themselves as a warehouse worker go into a facility. It actually takes someone who understands warehousing and knows how to operate a forklift. 1

Hisham Khaki, President and Founder

Alpharetta, GA-based flexible labour service HapiGig

While companies like HapiGig and EmployBridge can help vet potential gig workers coming into your warehouse facility, some steps must be taken on-site to prepare for this new type of worker. Realising the full potential of gig workers requires more than simply plugging them into existing workflows; it demands a strategic approach to solve complex distribution challenges.

So, what can companies do to prepare for and maximise the impact of gig workers in warehousing? Here are four ways to prepare.

warehouse gig worker operating a forklift carrying pallets

1.  Invest in training and development.

While gig workers bring valuable skills and experience to the table, providing targeted training and development opportunities can enhance their effectiveness and integration into the workforce. By offering access to online learning resources and efficient on-the-job training, companies can empower gig workers to perform their roles confidently and proficiently, driving productivity and quality standards.

2.  Prioritise communication and collaboration.

Effective communication ensures seamless coordination between gig workers and full-time employees. Invest in technology that coordinates worker communication, leverages digital tools and platforms for real-time updates and feedback, and fosters a culture of collaboration that considers all workers in the process, regardless of their employment status.

warehouse worker using RF scan technology on inventory

3.  Prioritise worker safety.

The well-being of gig workers should be a top priority for companies operating in the warehousing industry. Implementing safety protocols and training and conducting regular inspections and audits can help mitigate risks and ensure a safe working environment for all workers, regardless of their employment status.

4.  Embrace technology.

Technology plays a pivotal role in facilitating the seamless integration of gig workers into warehousing operations. Implementing key technology to orchestrate people, processes and automation can help ease your workforce challenges. Software solutions like FORTNA WES™ and FORTNA WCS™ are designed to maximise visibility and enterprise resource planning software to empower your control of operations.

By adopting these strategies, companies can not only prepare for the inevitable influx of gig workers but also unlock their full potential as valuable contributors to organisational success. Embracing the gig economy isn’t just about adapting to change—it’s about embracing opportunity, innovation and technology in the evolving worker landscape.

 

FORTNA Can Help

Not sure how to optimise your operations to be ready for gig workers? Labour challenges are unlikely to ease soon, so finding a supply chain partner to guide you through workforce challenges is critical. FORTNA has a team of industry experts and data scientists with the experience and expertise to transform your operations.

<sup>1</sup><a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/warehouses-are-calling-in-the-gig-workers-1357c685">https://www.wsj.com/articles/warehouses-are-calling-in-the-gig-workers-1357c685</a>

About the author

photo-of-darren-jorgenson-practice-lead-strategy

Darren Jorgenson

Practice Lead, Global Strategy

Darren Jorgenson is the Global Strategy Practice Leader for FORTNA and has been in the industry for 20+ years, serving in multiple industries and consulting roles. Darren is a member of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals and has been recognised as a Pro to Know by Supply & Demand Chain Executive magazine.