Running a distribution center is tough enough during regular business hours. But when the clock strikes 5 p.m., operations don’t stop—demand for unloading, picking, packing, and shipping continues well into the night. For many companies, filling second and third shift warehouse roles is one of the biggest staffing challenges they face.
If your facility struggles to keep night and weekend operations staffed, you’re not alone. Let’s explore why these shifts are harder to fill, what’s at stake when they’re left uncovered, and how organizations can move quickly to secure reliable labor without sacrificing productivity or safety.
These factors create a perfect storm for distribution center leaders, where unstaffed shifts can mean bottlenecks, missed deadlines, and frustrated customers.
Leaving night shifts understaffed doesn’t just mean fewer hands on the floor—it creates a ripple effect throughout the supply chain:
The cost of unfilled shifts is more than inconvenience—it directly affects revenue and customer satisfaction.
Outsourcing shift staffing to a partner like FHI ensures access to a ready pool of trained associates who are accustomed to working in 24/7 warehouse environments. Unlike temp agencies, FHI embeds with your operations, managing and scaling your workforce as demand shifts.
Adding pay incentives for second and third shifts makes them more appealing. Even small hourly increases can significantly improve applicant flow.
Split shifts, rotating schedules, or four-day workweeks can make overnight work more manageable and attractive to employees.
Workers are more willing to commit to non-traditional hours when they know safety and support are prioritized. FHI, for example, trains associates to operate safely and efficiently in all conditions, including cold storage environments.
Seasonal surges or unexpected volume increases don’t wait for hiring cycles. FHI’s rapid-deployment services help facilities scale labor on short notice, keeping operations flowing smoothly around the clock.
With more than 30 years of experience in distribution centers across North America, FHI has perfected the model of filling second and third shifts effectively:
Scalable Workforce: From a handful of associates to full teams, quickly deployed.
Embedded Management: Onsite leadership ensures productivity, accountability, and retention.
Industry Expertise: Skilled in grocery, cold storage, e-commerce, and other specialized environments.
Performance-Driven: Associates are trained to maximize throughput without compromising safety.
Where other providers stop at filling positions, FHI partners with you to drive long-term operational success.
Q: Why are second and third shifts harder to staff than day shifts?
A: The hours are less desirable, which makes recruiting and retaining workers more challenging. Many prefer roles that align with standard work or school schedules.
Q: How fast can FHI fill night shift roles?
A: With our rapid-deployment model, we can mobilize teams quickly—even within days—depending on your location and volume requirements.
Q: Does FHI manage both inbound and outbound operations at night?
A: Yes. Our teams are trained for inbound unloading, picking, packing, replenishment, and other critical tasks across all shifts.
Q: What’s the difference between FHI and a temporary staffing agency?
A: Unlike a transactional temp agency, FHI embeds within your operation, provides onsite management, and trains associates for productivity and safety.
Q: Is outsourcing cost-effective compared to hiring in-house?
A: Yes. Outsourcing reduces overtime costs, turnover, and training expenses, while providing predictable labor performance and productivity gains.
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