Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 1 (5%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 0 (0%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 20 (95%)

• Record numbers of units handled or moved, using daily production sheets or work tickets.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Move freight, stock, or other materials to and from storage or production areas, loading docks, delivery vehicles, ships, or containers, by hand or using trucks, tractors, or other equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Sort cargo before loading and unloading.Little or no AI speed-up · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Attach identifying tags to containers or mark them with identifying information.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Read work orders or receive oral instructions to determine work assignments or material or equipment needs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Stack cargo in locations, such as transit sheds or in holds of ships as directed, using pallets or cargo boards.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Install protective devices, such as bracing, padding, or strapping, to prevent shifting or damage to items being transported.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Direct spouts and position receptacles, such as bins, carts, or containers, so they can be loaded.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Attach slings, hooks, or other devices to lift cargo and guide loads.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Maintain equipment storage areas to ensure that inventory is protected.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Adjust controls to guide, position, or move equipment, such as cranes, booms, or cameras.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Guide loads being lifted to prevent swinging.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Wash out cargo containers or storage areas.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Pack containers and re-pack damaged containers.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Carry needed tools or supplies from storage or trucks and return them after use.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Shovel material, such as gravel, ice, or spilled concrete, into containers or bins or onto conveyors.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Connect electrical equipment to power sources so that it can be tested before use.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Carry out general yard duties, such as performing shunting on railway lines.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Rig or dismantle props or equipment, such as frames, scaffolding, platforms, or backdrops, using hand tools.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Adjust or replace equipment parts, such as rollers, belts, plugs, or caps, using hand tools.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Bundle and band material such as fodder or tobacco leaves, using banding machines.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about laborers and freight, stock, and material movers, hand and AI