When millions of parcels are shipped in December, the logistics industry is in a state of emergency. Warehouses are full, parcel volumes double, and delivery times are under intense pressure. Without the massive deployment of seasonal workers, many companies would not be able to cope with this Christmas parcel flood.
However, integrating additional workers is highly complex from an organizational standpoint. Shift work around the clock, strict working time laws, and fluctuating order volumes require maximum flexibility. Digital tools help logistics companies overcome this challenge.
Challenges in logistics
Shift work around the clock
Logistics centers often operate in three shifts. Seasonal workers must be flexible, even working nights and weekends.
Legal requirements
Legal requirements regarding working hours, breaks, and overtime must be strictly adhered to—violations result in penalties and can jeopardize operating licenses.
Dynamics of parcel volume
Parcel volumes fluctuate massively from day to day. Rigid planning is not sufficient here.
Different roles and qualifications
Drivers, order pickers, warehouse assistants—they all have different tasks that need to be coordinated.
Example: Flood of parcels before Christmas
A logistics center that normally processes 50,000 parcels per day suddenly has to handle 120,000 parcels in December.
Without digital support: Duty rosters are created manually, and changes are difficult to manage. This leads to overloads, failures, and inefficient processes.
With digital shift planning: Additional shifts can be generated automatically. Availability and qualifications are taken into account so that no gaps arise.
Digital time recording: Working hours, overtime, and bonuses are transparently documented. This ensures that the company remains legally compliant.
Digital onboarding: Seasonal workers receive training on safety rules and processes before starting work. This significantly reduces the error rate.
Result: Even under maximum load, processes remain efficient and employees remain motivated.
Digital solutions
Shift planning with automation
Work schedules are adjusted to order volumes in real time. Additional shifts can be distributed fairly.
Digital time tracking
Working hours are accurately documented via app, terminal, or scanner. Break regulations and overtime are immediately visible.
Digital onboarding & training
Employees can complete safety and process training online before they set foot in the warehouse for the first time. Consistent onboarding ensures that new employees are well trained.
Mobile communication
Push notifications keep teams up to date when order situations or shifts change.
Best practices
- Use employee pools: Mark proven seasonal workers for the next peak season.
- Fair shift distribution: Transparent rules avoid frustration and overload.
- Follow-up: Evaluate key figures after the season to continuously improve processes.
- Self-service: Employees can maintain their own availability and submit shift requests.
Conclusion
The logistics industry is under enormous pressure during the Christmas season. Seasonal workers are indispensable, but they can only be integrated efficiently and in compliance with legal requirements with digital support. Digital tools ensure planning reliability, transparency, and compliance, thereby guaranteeing the smooth operation of the entire supply chain.
