Overtime rules for warehouse workers
Warehouse and distribution center workers are non-exempt under the FLSA. Many work peak seasons with significant overtime, especially in e-commerce fulfillment.
- Industry: Logistics
- Average hourly rate (US): $19.50
- Average weekly hours: 42
Special rules for warehouse workers
- Standard FLSA: 1.5× after 40 hours per week
- California warehouse workers covered by AB 701 (productivity quota law)
- Peak season hours (holidays) often involve mandatory overtime
- Pre-shift security screening time may be compensable in some states
Are warehouse workers entitled to overtime?
The answer depends on your specific job duties, salary level, and state. Under federal FLSA, most warehouse workers are non-exempt and entitled to time-and-a-half pay for hours worked beyond 40 per week. Some categories — like senior-level or specifically exempt roles — may not qualify.
To determine your status, ask: Are you paid hourly, or do you earn at least $43,888/year on a salary basis? Do your job duties match the FLSA's exemption tests (executive, administrative, or professional)? If you're unsure, the calculator above will help estimate your OT pay assuming you're non-exempt.
How to calculate warehouse workers' overtime pay
For most warehouse workers working under federal FLSA rules:
- Identify your regular hourly rate. If salaried, divide your weekly salary by 40.
- Track all hours worked in the workweek. Include training, mandatory meetings, and any pre/post-shift duties.
- Subtract 40 to find OT hours. All hours over 40 are overtime.
- Multiply OT hours by your rate × 1.5. This is your overtime pay.
- Add regular pay (40 × rate) to OT pay for your gross weekly total.