Job outlooks for Material handlers

Discover the employment prospects for your dream job across Canada, or compare different occupations.

Occupation

forklift truck operator (75101)

Location

All regions across Canada

Did you know? You can visit the Open Government Portal to search through and download our Employment Outlooks data all in one place. There, you will find current and previous versions of our 3-Year Employment Outlooks reports for the periods of 2013-2015 to 2025-2027. View the dataset on the Open Government Portal.

These outlooks were updated on December 10, 2025.

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  • Newfoundland and LabradorLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Newfoundland and Labrador for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Some individuals in this occupation mainly perform manual tasks while others operate equipment. A forklift operator certification is an asset for securing employment. Material handlers may also be required to obtain training and receive a licence to transport dangerous goods and hazardous materials. Individuals who are willing to work flexible shifts, including overnight, will have more favourable job prospects.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Newfoundland and Labrador:

    • Approximately 1,600 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 24%
      • Other transportation and warehousing (NAICS 482, 486, 487, 493): 13%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 12%
      • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 10%
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 7%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 88% compared to 83% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 12% compared to 17% for all occupations
    • 50% of material handlers work all year, while 50% work only part of the year, compared to 56% and 43% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 38 weeks compared to 40 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 8% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 90% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 10% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 20% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 49% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 15% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 14% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Avalon Peninsula Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Avalon Peninsula region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Avalon Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 920 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 32%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 25%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 10%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 8%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 6%

    • Notre Dame-Central-Bonavista Bay Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions:

      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 28%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 26%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 14%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 10%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 6%

    • South Coast–Burin Peninsula Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions:

      • Approximately 500 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 28%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 26%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 14%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 10%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 6%

    • West Coast–Northern Peninsula–Labrador Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the West Coast - Northern Peninsula - Labrador region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the West Coast - Northern Peninsula - Labrador region:

      • Approximately 280 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 25%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 23%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 16%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 13%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 11%

  • Prince Edward IslandModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Prince Edward Island for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    The prospect for employment in this occupation is good as the demand for workers has been on the rise. Job opportunities are mostly found across the manufacturing, transportation and warehousing, and wholesale and retail trade industries. Some individuals in this occupation mainly perform manual tasks while others operate equipment. A forklift operator certification is an asset for securing employment. Material handlers may also be required to obtain training and receive a licence to transport dangerous goods and hazardous materials. Individuals who are willing to work flexible shifts, including overnight, will have more favourable job prospects.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Prince Edward Island:

    • Approximately 600 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 19%
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 18%
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 10%
      • Paper manufacturing (NAICS 322): 8%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 8%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 89% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 11% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 48% of material handlers work all year, while 52% work only part of the year, compared to 59% and 41% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 39 weeks compared to 41 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 91% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 9% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 17% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 45% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 11% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 24% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations

  • Nova ScotiaGood

    The employment outlook will be Good for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Nova Scotia for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Demand is strong for material handlers throughout the province, with vacancies arising continuously. Openings occur frequently due to turnover, as the fast pace and physicality in certain workplaces are not suitable for all workers. Applicants may find that training and experience operating a forklift are assets for certain positions. Candidates may be expected to have their own vehicle as shiftwork may occur at night when public transit is not available.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Nova Scotia:

    • Approximately 4,750 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 22%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 13%
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 10%
      • Plastics and rubber products and chemicals manufacturing (NAICS 325-326): 8%
      • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 84% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 16% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 60% of material handlers work all year, while 40% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 41 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 89% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 11% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 21% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 50% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 9% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 12% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 7% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Annapolis Valley Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Annapolis Valley region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Annapolis Valley region:

      • Approximately 840 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 25%
        • Plastics and rubber products and chemicals manufacturing (NAICS 325-326): 19%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 18%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 12%
        • Other manufacturing (NAICS 313-316, 322-323, 327, 331, 333-335, 337, 339): 7%

    • Cape Breton Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Cape Breton region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Cape Breton region:

      • Approximately 300 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 46%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 18%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 9%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 5%

    • Halifax Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Halifax region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Halifax region:

      • Approximately 2,040 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 37%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 24%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 15%

    • North Shore Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the North Shore region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the North Shore region:

      • Approximately 1,040 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 36%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 14%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 12%
        • Plastics and rubber products and chemicals manufacturing (NAICS 325-326): 9%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 8%

    • Southern Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Southern region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Southern region:

      • Approximately 440 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 22%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 17%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 14%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 11%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 10%

  • New BrunswickModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in New Brunswick for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Material handlers are employed by transportation, storage and moving companies, as well as in warehouses throughout a variety of sectors.  
    • This work is physically demanding and involves handling heavy loads. 
    • Most material handlers are employed in Moncton and Saint John, where the majority of the province's industrial activity takes place. Both are significant railway hubs, while the latter is also home to the Port of Saint John, which is New Brunswick's largest port.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in New Brunswick:

    • Approximately 3,650 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 18%
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 13%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 8%
      • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%
      • Food and beverage stores (NAICS 445): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 90% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 10% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 62% of material handlers work all year, while 38% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 10% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 91% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 9% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 20% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 52% compared to 30% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 11% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 16% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Campbellton–Miramichi Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Campbellton - Miramichi region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Campbellton - Miramichi region:

      • Approximately 530 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Machinery manufacturing (NAICS 333): 24%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 23%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 12%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 10%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212-213): 10%

    • Edmundston–Woodstock Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Edmundston - Woodstock region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Edmundston - Woodstock region:

      • Approximately 280 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 23%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 18%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 14%
        • Paper manufacturing (NAICS 322): 12%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 10%

    • Fredericton–Oromocto Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Fredericton - Oromocto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Fredericton - Oromocto region:

      • Approximately 600 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 37%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 28%
        • Forestry and logging (NAICS 113, 1153): 9%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 8%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 8%

    • Moncton–Richibucto Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Moncton - Richibucto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Moncton - Richibucto region:

      • Approximately 1,740 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 35%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 27%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 13%

    • Saint John–St. Stephen Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Saint John - St. Stephen region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Saint John - St. Stephen region:

      • Approximately 780 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 24%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 23%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 9%
        • Paper manufacturing (NAICS 322): 6%
        • Plastics and rubber products and chemicals manufacturing (NAICS 325-326): 6%

  • QuebecLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Quebec for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

    The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

    In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Quebec:

    • Approximately 55,150 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 15%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 12%
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 9%
      • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 8%
      • Other transportation and warehousing (NAICS 482-483, 485-486, 487, 493): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 86% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 14% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 61% of material handlers work all year, while 39% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 87% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 13% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 30% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 34% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 18% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Abitibi-Témiscamingue Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region:

      • Approximately 450 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 24%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 21%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 16%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 14%
        • Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (NAICS 21): 6%

    • Bas-Saint-Laurent Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region:

      • Approximately 760 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 19%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 17%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 13%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 13%
        • Transportation equipment manufacturing (NAICS 336): 5%

    • Capitale-Nationale Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Capitale-Nationale region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Capitale-Nationale region:

      • Approximately 3,200 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 23%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 19%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 11%
        • Fabricated metal product manufacturing (NAICS 332): 6%
        • Management and Administrative Services (NAICS 55-56): 5%

    • Centre-du-Québec Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Centre-du-Québec region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Centre-du-Québec region:

      • Approximately 2,400 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Paper manufacturing (NAICS 322): 12%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 11%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 9%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 9%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 7%

    • Chaudière-Appalaches Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Chaudière - Appalaches region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Chaudière - Appalaches region:

      • Approximately 2,730 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 11%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 11%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 9%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 8%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 8%

    • Côte-Nord Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Approximately 470 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 26%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 16%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 12%
        • Primary metal manufacturing (NAICS 331): 11%
        • Forestry and logging (NAICS 113, 1153): 7%

    • Estrie Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Estrie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Estrie region:

      • Approximately 2,030 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation equipment manufacturing (NAICS 336): 11%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 10%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 9%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 7%
        • Management and Administrative Services (NAICS 55-56): 7%

    • Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Gaspésie - Îles-de-la-Madeleine region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Gaspésie - Îles-de-la-Madeleine region:

      • Approximately 210 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 37%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 24%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 10%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 10%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 9%

    • Lanaudière Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Lanaudière region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Lanaudière region:

      • Approximately 4,320 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 24%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 13%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 11%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%
        • Paper manufacturing (NAICS 322): 7%

    • Laurentides Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Laurentides region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Laurentides region:

      • Approximately 3,590 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 24%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 12%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 12%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 10%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 7%

    • Laval Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region, for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region,:

      • Approximately 27,280 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Mauricie Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Mauricie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Mauricie region:

      • Approximately 1,110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 19%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 12%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 8%
        • Printing and related support activities (NAICS 323): 7%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 7%

    • Montréal Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the census metropolitan area of Montréal:

      • Approximately 27,280 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Montérégie Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Montérégie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Montérégie region:

      • Approximately 13,550 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 21%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 13%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 13%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 11%

    • Nord-du-Québec Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 26%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 16%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 12%
        • Primary metal manufacturing (NAICS 331): 11%
        • Forestry and logging (NAICS 113, 1153): 7%

    • Outaouais Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Outaouais region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Outaouais region:

      • Approximately 1,030 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 28%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 20%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 8%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 7%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

    • Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is evolving mainly with consumption and trends that influence commerce, transportation and warehousing.

      The climate of uncertainty linked to American tariffs could curb exports to the United States and slow the economy, which could limit the hiring in some companies in the short term.

      In terms of trends, the use of online shopping continues to grow and is expected to boost the need for this workforce. However, warehouse automation and new handling technologies could moderate the demand for these workers.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region:

      • Approximately 900 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 21%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 21%
        • Primary metal manufacturing (NAICS 331): 10%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 8%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 8%

  • OntarioLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Ontario for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    What Types of Employers Are Out There?

    • Employed by all major industries, but the leading shares are in manufacturing, warehousing and retail trade sectors
    • Wholesale trade is another key employer

    What are the Main Trends Affecting Employment?

    • Job prospects are dependent on the amount of goods to be moved
      • The overall volume of goods requiring transportation may decline given trade uncertainties
    • Expansions in warehousing facilities, however the use of automated storage and retrieval systems may alter some of the roles of material handlers

    What Skills Do I Need to Succeed?

    • Forklift operator certification is required for some roles.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Ontario:

    • Approximately 95,100 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other transportation and warehousing (NAICS 482-483, 486, 487, 493): 31%
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 14%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 9%
      • Motor vehicle, body, trailer and parts manufacturing (NAICS 3361-3363): 7%
      • Computer systems design services (NAICS 5415): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 87% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 13% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 57% of material handlers work all year, while 42% work only part of the year, compared to 63% and 37% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 41 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 79% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 21% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 17% compared to 9% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 46% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 6% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 15% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 12% compared to 24% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Hamilton–Niagara Peninsula Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 9,840 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 32%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 14%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 13%
        • Motor vehicle, body, trailer and parts manufacturing (NAICS 3361-3363): 8%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 6%

    • Kingston–Pembroke Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Kingston - Pembroke region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Kingston - Pembroke region:

      • Approximately 2,500 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 25%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 14%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 13%
        • Paper manufacturing (NAICS 322): 12%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 8%

    • Kitchener–Waterloo–Barrie Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region:

      • Approximately 12,200 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 23%
        • Motor vehicle, body, trailer and parts manufacturing (NAICS 3361-3363): 19%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 14%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 10%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%

    • London Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the London region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the London region:

      • Approximately 5,920 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 31%
        • Motor vehicle, body, trailer and parts manufacturing (NAICS 3361-3363): 16%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 15%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 11%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 9%

    • Muskoka–Kawarthas Region Very limited

      The employment outlook will be Very limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Muskoka - Kawarthas region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Muskoka - Kawarthas region:

      • Approximately 1,610 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Plastics and rubber products manufacturing (NAICS 326): 17%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 13%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 13%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 12%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 10%

    • Northeast Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Northeast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Northeast region:

      • Approximately 1,690 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 28%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 21%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 8%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 6%

    • Northwest Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Northwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Northwest region:

      • Approximately 770 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 39%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 24%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 14%

    • Ottawa Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Ottawa region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Ottawa region:

      • Approximately 7,300 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 36%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 28%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 9%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 6%

    • Stratford–Bruce Peninsula Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Stratford - Bruce Peninsula region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Stratford - Bruce Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 1,590 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 15%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 12%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 11%
        • Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 11%
        • Motor vehicle, body, trailer and parts manufacturing (NAICS 3361-3363): 11%

    • Toronto Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Toronto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Toronto region:

      • Approximately 48,330 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 43%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 17%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 9%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

    • Windsor-Sarnia Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Windsor - Sarnia region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Windsor - Sarnia region:

      • Approximately 4,100 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 28%
        • Motor vehicle, body, trailer and parts manufacturing (NAICS 3361-3363): 21%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 10%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 8%

  • ManitobaLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Manitoba for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    •Demand for this occupation is driven by trade and transportation and warehousing, which are currently tariff exposed and subject to economic cycles.

    •Key trends in this occupation include robotics (Autonomous Mobile Robots) and automation (Automated Guided Vehicles) for packing and palletizing. machine Learning (ML) allows systems and robots to learn and adapt to changes in warehouse environments.

    •Jobs are concentrated in the South Central, North Central and Winnipeg regions.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Manitoba:

    • Approximately 7,200 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 15%
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 14%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 12%
      • Computer, electronic and electrical product manufacturing (NAICS 334-335): 9%
      • Other transportation and warehousing (NAICS 482-483, 486, 487, 493): 9%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 86% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 14% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 64% of material handlers work all year, while 36% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 43 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 89% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 11% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 21% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 48% compared to 31% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 7% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 11% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Interlake Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Interlake region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Interlake region:

      • Approximately 350 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 35%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 21%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 13%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%
        • Agriculture (NAICS 111, 112, 1151, 1152): 6%

    • North Central Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the North Central region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the North Central region:

      • Approximately 760 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 27%
        • Fabricated metal product manufacturing (NAICS 332): 16%
        • Computer, electronic and electrical product manufacturing (NAICS 334-335): 12%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 9%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 9%

    • North Region Very limited

      The employment outlook will be Very limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the North region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the North region:

      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 33%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 24%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 14%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 13%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 7%

    • Parklands Region Very limited

      The employment outlook will be Very limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Parklands region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Parklands region:

      • Approximately 310 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 33%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 24%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 14%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 13%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 7%

    • South Central Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the South Central region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the South Central region:

      • Approximately 760 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 27%
        • Fabricated metal product manufacturing (NAICS 332): 16%
        • Computer, electronic and electrical product manufacturing (NAICS 334-335): 12%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 9%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 9%

    • Southeast Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Southeast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Southeast region:

      • Approximately 360 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 21%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 20%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 18%
        • Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 11%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 9%

    • Southwest Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Southwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Southwest region:

      • Approximately 400 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 18%
        • Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 18%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 17%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 11%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 9%

    • Winnipeg Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Winnipeg region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Winnipeg region:

      • Approximately 5,040 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 28%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 18%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 12%
        • Computer, electronic and electrical product manufacturing (NAICS 334-335): 11%

  • SaskatchewanModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Saskatchewan for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Job prospects may be softened by tariff-related disruption to U.S.-bound trade shipments, as growth prospects may be tempered for export-related sectors that hire this occupation.
    • Growth in e-commerce and the resulting rise in demand for more individualized material handling and logistics services in warehousing and transportation will support job opportunities for this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Saskatchewan:

    • Approximately 6,900 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 20%
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 16%
      • Other transportation and warehousing (NAICS 482-483, 486, 487, 493): 13%
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 9%
      • Food and beverage stores (NAICS 445): 7%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 87% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 13% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 63% of material handlers work all year, while 37% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 91% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 9% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 17% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 55% compared to 33% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 8% compared to 15% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 8% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 8% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Northern Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Northern region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Northern region:

      • Approximately 1,160 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 28%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 20%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 19%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 10%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 5%

    • Prince Albert Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Prince Albert region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Prince Albert region:

      • Approximately 1,160 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 28%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 20%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 19%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 10%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 5%

    • Regina–Moose Mountain Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Regina - Moose Mountain region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Regina - Moose Mountain region:

      • Approximately 2,440 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 31%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 21%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 18%
        • Machinery manufacturing (NAICS 333): 8%
        • Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 5%

    • Saskatoon–Biggar Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Saskatoon - Biggar region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Saskatoon - Biggar region:

      • Approximately 2,230 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 30%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 19%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 17%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 8%

    • Swift Current–Moose Jaw Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region:

      • Approximately 330 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 31%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 30%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 15%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 10%

    • Yorkton–Melville Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Yorkton - Melville region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Yorkton - Melville region:

      • Approximately 560 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 28%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 27%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 25%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 7%

  • AlbertaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Alberta for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
    • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.



    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Alberta:

    • Approximately 29,100 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other transportation and warehousing (NAICS 482-483, 486, 487, 493): 20%
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 19%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 14%
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 7%
      • Computer systems design services (NAICS 5415): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 86% compared to 80% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 14% compared to 20% for all occupations
    • 59% of material handlers work all year, while 41% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 41 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 81% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 19% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 17% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 47% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 8% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 12% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 12% compared to 21% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Athabasca–Grande Prairie–Peace River Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
      • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region:

      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 20%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 20%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 15%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 13%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 5%

    • Banff–Jasper–Rocky Mountain House Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
      • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region:

      • Approximately 1,120 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 20%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 20%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 15%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 13%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 5%

    • Calgary Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Calgary region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
      • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Calgary region:

      • Approximately 12,050 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 39%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 22%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 10%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

    • Camrose–Drumheller Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Camrose - Drumheller region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
      • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Camrose - Drumheller region:

      • Approximately 680 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 25%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 22%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 20%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 10%
        • Utilities (NAICS 22): 5%

    • Edmonton Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Edmonton region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
      • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Edmonton region:

      • Approximately 12,560 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 30%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 21%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 19%

    • Lethbridge–Medicine Hat Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
      • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region:

      • Approximately 1,560 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 27%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 17%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 13%
        • Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 11%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 8%

    • Red Deer Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Red Deer region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
      • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Red Deer region:

      • Approximately 750 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 25%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 21%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 20%
        • Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 11%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 6%

    • Wood Buffalo–Cold Lake Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Wood Buffalo - Cold Lake region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Fulfillment centres and warehouses near urban areas have brought down delivery costs and times, leading to a demand for workers in this occupation. It is unlikely that the trend will reverse in the near term.
      • A growing number of distribution centres across the province should improve economic activity, thereby raising the demand for material handling services across supply chains.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Wood Buffalo - Cold Lake region:

      • Approximately 600 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 25%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 22%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 17%
        • Oil and gas extraction (NAICS 211, 213): 12%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 6%

  • British ColumbiaLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in British Columbia for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Demand for this occupation is driven by conditions (i.e. 

    international trade policy) in wholesale trade, manufacturing, and the transportation and warehousing sectors. Key trends in this occupation include robotics (Autonomous Mobile Robots) and automation (Automated Guided Vehicles) for packing and palletizing. 

    Machine Learning (ML) allows systems and robots to learn and adapt to changes in warehouse environments. 

    In June 2025, Amazon opened the 825K sq. 

    ft. 

    YXX1 warehouse in Pitt Meadows. 

    The facility employs over 100 people and serves as a logistics hub for shipping products throughout the Lower Mainland region.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in British Columbia:

    • Approximately 30,100 people work in this occupation.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other retail stores (NAICS 44-45, except 445): 18%
      • Other transportation and warehousing (NAICS 482-483, 486, 487, 493): 16%
      • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 16%
      • Truck transportation (NAICS 484): 8%
      • Computer systems design services (NAICS 5415): 7%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 83% compared to 78% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 17% compared to 22% for all occupations
    • 59% of material handlers work all year, while 41% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 41 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of material handlers are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 81% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 19% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 16% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 49% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 9% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 12% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Cariboo Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Cariboo region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Cariboo region:

      • Approximately 950 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 18%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 15%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 15%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 12%
        • Computer, electronic and electrical product manufacturing (NAICS 334-335): 11%

    • Kootenay Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Kootenay region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Kootenay region:

      • Approximately 590 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 21%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 19%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 19%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 12%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 9%

    • Lower Mainland–Southwest Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region:

      • Approximately 22,890 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 32%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 21%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 16%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

    • Nechako Region Very limited

      The employment outlook will be Very limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Nechako region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Nechako region:

      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 32%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 16%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 16%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 8%
        • Primary metal manufacturing (NAICS 331): 6%

    • North Coast Region Very limited

      The employment outlook will be Very limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the North Coast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the North Coast region:

      • Approximately 600 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 32%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 16%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 16%
        • Construction (NAICS 23): 8%
        • Primary metal manufacturing (NAICS 331): 6%

    • Northeast Region Very limited

      The employment outlook will be Very limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Northeast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Northeast region:

      • Approximately 310 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 21%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 16%
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 15%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 10%
        • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 9%

    • Thompson–Okanagan Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Thompson - Okanagan region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Thompson - Okanagan region:

      • Approximately 2,680 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 24%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 15%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 13%
        • Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 10%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 9%

    • Vancouver Island and Coast Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in the Vancouver Island and Coast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about material handlers in the Vancouver Island and Coast region:

      • Approximately 2,320 people work in this occupation.
      • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 26%
        • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 19%
        • Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 13%
        • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 7%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

  • Yukon TerritoryLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Yukon for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Most employment in this occupation in the Yukon is in Whitehorse.
    • In the Yukon, this occupation is mainly employed by transportation businesses, including storage and moving companies, and retail by and wholesale warehouses.
    • The Government of Yukon's Labour Demand Survey expects seven additional vacancies for longshore workers and material handlers in 2025 or 2026 (Government of Yukon, 2025).

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Yukon:

    • Approximately 100 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 38%
      • Wholesale and Retail Trade (NAICS 41, 44-45): 26%
      • Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (NAICS 21): 12%
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 10%
    • 59% of material handlers work all year, while 41% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 89% compared to 49% for all occupations
      • Women: 11% compared to 51% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 36% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 41% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 9% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 9% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: n/a
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: n/a

  • Northwest TerritoriesModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Northwest Territories for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Most employment in this occupation in the Northwest Territories is in Yellowknife.
    • In the Northwest Territories, this occupation is mainly employed by transportation businesses, including storage and moving companies, and retail by and wholesale warehouses.
    • From 2021-2040, 71 job openings are forecast for material handlers in the Northwest Territories (Government of Northwest Territories, 2023).

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Northwest Territories:

    • Approximately 100 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 38%
      • Wholesale and Retail Trade (NAICS 41, 44-45): 26%
      • Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (NAICS 21): 12%
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 10%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 77% compared to 88% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 23% compared to 12% for all occupations
    • 55% of material handlers work all year, while 45% work only part of the year, compared to 71% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 39 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 92% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 8% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 19% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 45% compared to 26% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 23% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 6% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: n/a
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: n/a

  • NunavutModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for material handlers (NOC 75101) in Nunavut for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • In Nunavut, this occupation is mainly employed by transportation businesses, including storage and moving companies, and retail by and wholesale warehouses.

    Here are some key facts about material handlers in Nunavut:

    • Approximately 50 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Material handlers mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Transportation and warehousing (NAICS 48-49): 38%
      • Wholesale and Retail Trade (NAICS 41, 44-45): 26%
      • Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (NAICS 21): 12%
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 10%
    • 56% of material handlers work all year, while 43% work only part of the year, compared to 72% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 36 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: more than 95% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: less than 5% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 54% compared to 37% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 31% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: n/a
      • bachelor's degree: n/a
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: n/a

Related links

Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) - Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

Labour Market Information Survey
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