As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Distribution Clerk in the United States is $40,915 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $20.
However, a Distribution Clerk's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Distribution Clerk's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Distribution Clerk's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Distribution Clerk | 1-3 years | $40,915 |
| Distribution Clerk, Sr. | 3-5 years | $45,801 |
| Distribution Manager | 5+ years | $89,199 |
| Distribution Senior Manager | 5+ years | $129,640 |
| Distribution Director | 5+ years | $183,151 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Distribution Clerks. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 10.99% |
| Order Picking | 2.06% |
| Container | 1.75% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Influencing
|
$50,735 |
24%
|
|
Analysis
|
$47,052 |
15%
|
|
Coaching
|
$45,825 |
12%
|
|
Continuous Improvement
|
$45,007 |
10%
|
|
Product Pricing
|
$44,597 |
9%
|
|
Initiative
|
$44,188 |
8%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Distribution Clerks enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Distribution Clerk with a No Diploma is between $39,047 and $39,816).
Distribution Clerk Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 16.7% |
| High School | 50.0% |
| Associates | 16.7% |
| Bachelors | 16.7% |
| Masters | 16.7% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Distribution Clerk's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Distribution Clerk, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Distribution Center Supervisor | $64,073 | 57% |
| Terminal Operations Specialist III | $74,966 | 83% |
| Distribution Clerk, Sr. | $45,801 | 12% |
| Spares Coordination Manager | $87,626 | 114% |
Salaries for a Distribution Clerk can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $44,534 in 2023 to around $43,105 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Distribution Clerk salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $44,534 |
| 2024 | $43,696 |
| 2025 | $43,105 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Distribution Clerk's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Distribution Clerk earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Distribution Clerk is $51,606.
The highest pay for Distribution Clerk is $51,470.
The lowest pay for Distribution Clerk is $33,237.
Performs a variety of clerical, customer service, and administrative duties to support operations of a distribution center. Monitors inventory levels to ensure sufficient levels are available to fulfill all orders. Ensures that all required paperwork, including labels, packing lists, and transport instructions, is prepared. Utilizes tracking systems to input or look up information. Complies with all OSHA and other regulations, policies, safety procedures, and documentation requirements. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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