Amazon‘s VET Policy in 2024: Everything You Need To Know
Amazon utilizes a Voluntary Extra Time (VET) policy to meet fluctuating workloads at its fulfillment and sortation centers. With VET, employees can opt for additional work hours outside their regular shift schedules.
In 2024, what does this policy entail for Amazon‘s over 750,000 warehouse staff? Here‘s a comprehensive look at how voluntary extra time works.
What Exactly is VET?
VET stands for "Voluntary Extra Time." It allows hourly associates to sign up for extra shifts when Amazon anticipates heavy volumes and additional labor is required.
Based on sales forecasts and warehouse workloads, Amazon notifies employees of VET shift opportunities through their AtoZ employee app. VET is completely optional – associates can pick up shifts to earn overtime pay if they wish.
As an HR professional, I think VET offers advantages for both sides:
- Amazon can scale up staffing to meet customer demand, especially during peak periods.
- Employees have a chance to work more hours and increase their earnings.
However, VET needs to be implemented carefully to avoid overworking staff. That‘s why Amazon enforces limits on maximum hours (more below).
How Do VET Shifts Work?
VET shift patterns are variable and based on business conditions. But here are some common examples:
- Extended hours – Adding 2-4 extra hours before or after an existing scheduled shift
- Split shift – Working 3-5 hours in the morning and another 3-5 hours in the evening
- Full extra shift – Picking up a full 10-12 hour shift on an unscheduled day
Once claimed, VET shifts become mandatory. If you fail to show up for a VET shift, it can count as an attendance infraction.
To prevent excessive workload, VET is capped at 60 total hours per week including regular shifts. Associates also cannot work more than 6 consecutive days in a row.
This table illustrates potential VET options:
| VET Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Extended hours | Regular shift 9 AM – 5 PM + VET 5 PM – 7 PM |
| Split shift | VET 7 AM – 10 AM + Regular shift 1 PM – 5 PM + VET 6 PM – 9 PM |
| Full extra shift | Regular shifts Mon-Wed + VET shift on Thursday |
Who Can Pick Up VET Shifts?
Most hourly associates at Amazon‘s logistics facilities are eligible for VET shifts, including:
- Full-time employees
- Part-time & reduced-time employees
- Seasonal associates
However, full-timers tend to get priority for VET as they have fewer hourly limits. Eligibility can also vary by job position – for example, truck drivers may not be approved for warehouse VET shifts.
According to an Amazon spokesperson, over 75% of the company‘s warehouse associates have opted for VET at some point. This underscores how popular the program is.
How Much Are VET Shifts Paid?
The pay rate for VET is your standard base rate. Unlike traditional overtime, VET does not include any pay premiums or increases.
For example, if your regular wage is $18 per hour, your VET shift pay will also be $18 per hour. It does not matter if the VET hours put you over 40 hours for the week.
Average Hourly Wages for Amazon Warehouse Workers:
| Country | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| USA | $18 |
| Canada | $17 |
| UK | £10-£11.50 |
Without overtime premiums, is VET still worth it for employees? Let‘s explore that next.
Should You Pick Up VET Shifts?
The main incentive for VET is the ability to earn more by working additional hours. Even at regular pay rates, 10-20 extra hours per week can greatly increase total weekly pay.
But before signing up, assess your personal schedule and energy levels. The extra workload cuts into free time. Working back-to-back shifts or 60 hour weeks can also be physically draining.
As an HR expert, I recommend being selective about which VET shifts you accept. Say yes during major shopping periods when the incentives are highest, but scale back when you need a break.
VET can also demonstrate reliability and willingness to go the extra mile during crunch times. If you want to get converted to permanent status, strategic use of VET can help.
Overall, view VET as a flexible way to boost earnings – but don‘t overdo it at the expense of your health and work-life balance.
Key Takeaways
- VET allows Amazon employees to work optional extra shifts to meet peak demand
- Associates can add hours before/after existing shifts or pick up full new shifts
- VET is paid at regular base wages, not at overtime rates
- Hourly limits protect workers from excessive workload (max 60 hours/week)
- VET provides extra income but shouldn‘t replace personal time off
For Amazon warehouse workers, understanding the VET policy can lead to hundreds of dollars in extra monthly income. But maximize its value by being selective about which shifts you accept.
