Five Tips for Navigating Wage and Hour Law as a Warehouse Employee

According to Zippia, there are almost 1.9 million general warehouse workers in the U.S. It makes sense since warehouse employees are a vital part of the supply chain.

They ensure that products are stored and shipped efficiently. However, navigating Wage and Hour Law can be challenging, particularly for those who may be new to the industry.

This article will provide five tips for warehouse employees to understand and comply with the Wage and Hour Law, so they can ensure they are being paid fairly and working in compliance with the law.

Read on to make sure you claim the wages you deserve.

1. Know Your Rights

The first step in navigating the Wage and Hour Law is to understand your rights as an employee. Under federal labor laws, you are entitled to a minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.

Additionally, you are entitled to overtime pay if you work more than 40 hours in a workweek. Overtime pay is calculated at one and a half times your regular rate of pay.

It is important to note that some states have their own minimum wage laws that may be higher than the federal minimum wage. If this is the case, you are entitled to the higher of the two wages. Governor Phil Murphy established a minimum wage law for the state of New Jersey. The current rate as of January 1, 2024, is $15.13.

Another important right you have as a warehouse employee is the right to take rest and meal breaks. Employers are required to provide rest breaks of at least 10 minutes for every four hours of work, and meal breaks of at least 30 minutes for every five hours of work. If your employer is not providing these breaks, they may be in violation of the law.

2. Keep Track of Your Hours Worked 

One of the most important things you can do to protect your rights under the Wage and Hour Law is to keep track of your paid hours. This means keeping a record of when you start and end your shifts, as well as any breaks you take. This will help you to ensure that you are being paid correctly and that you are receiving overtime pay when you are entitled to it.

It is also a good idea to note that if your employer is not keeping accurate records of your hours, they may be in violation of the law. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers are required to keep accurate records of the hours worked by their employees. If you believe that your employer is not keeping accurate records, you should speak with a lawyer or contact the Department of Labor.

 3. Understand Your Pay Stub 

Another important tip for navigating the Wage and Hour Law is to understand your pay stub. Your pay stub should show your gross pay, which is the total amount of money you are paid before any deductions are taken out. It should also show your net pay, which is the amount of money you take home after deductions are taken out.

Your pay stub should also show any deductions that were taken out of your pay, such as taxes, insurance, and retirement contributions. If you see any deductions that you do not understand, you should speak with your employer to get an explanation.

 4. Know Your Options for Recourse

If you believe that your rights under the Wage and Hour Law have been violated, it is important to know your options for recourse. The first step you should take is to speak with your employer. Explain the issue and give them the opportunity to correct it.

Another option is to file a lawsuit against your employer. However, it is important to note that this can be a long and difficult process.

If you are considering this option, you should speak with a lawyer who specializes in Wage and Hour Law. They will be able to advise you on your rights and the best course of action.

 5. Continually Educate Yourself

If you want to get to grips with the Wage and Hour Law as a warehouse employee, you need to continually educate yourself. Stay informed about changes in the laws and any new regulations that may affect your rights. Furthermore, it is helpful to be familiar with common wage and hour violations, such as failing to pay overtime or not providing rest and meal breaks.

You can educate yourself by reading articles and publications, attending seminars or webinars, or by speaking with a lawyer or a representative from the Department of Labor. By staying informed, you will be better equipped to understand your rights and to take action if you believe they have been violated.

Additional Tips to Consider

The five tips outlined in the article are important considerations. There are a few other things to keep in mind when thinking about the Wage and Hour Law for warehouse workers.

These include:

• Be aware of the difference between exempt and non-exempt employees
• Look into the laws surrounding independent contractors
• Keep records of everything concerning your payments
• Don’t be afraid to seek legal assistance when you are unsure

Concerning the last point, if you believe that your rights under wage and hour laws have been violated, it may be in your best interest to seek legal advice. A lawyer who specializes in wage and hour law will be able to advise you on your rights and the best course of action. If you are considering filing a lawsuit, it is essential to have legal representation.

The Wage and Hour Law Explained for Warehouse Workers

The Wage and Hour Law is in place to ensure that employees are treated fairly and that their time is respected. As a warehouse employee, it is important to understand your rights under these laws.

At McOmber McOmber & Luber, we have a reputable team of attorneys who can help you with any wage concerns. Get in touch today to find out more.