Transport Planner

Our client in the Stoke-on-Trent area are looking for a Transport Planner, responsible for effectively planning, coordinating, and managing the distributions daily vehicle operations across general haulage and consolidation services.

Key Responsibilities

Transport Planning & Operations

• Create and manage daily transport plans for HGV fleet, ensuring efficient vehicle and driver utilisation.
• Plan cost-effective delivery and collection schedules while maintaining compliance with transport legislation.
• Maximise profitability through effective load consolidation across multiple customer requirements.
• Utilise local geographical knowledge to optimise routes and improve operational efficiency.
• Depart all drivers each morning with complete and accurate route plans and instructions.
• Prepare and produce vehicle manifests, load manifests, and associated customer documentation.
• Ensure priority loading lists and operational handovers are printed and communicated appropriately.
• Monitor transport operations throughout the day and adjust plans as required to meet service commitments.

Driver & Fleet Coordination

• Liaise closely with drivers regarding daily schedules, operational challenges, and customer requirements.
• Identify recurring route issues through driver feedback and incorporate local knowledge into future planning.
• Manage driver availability issues, including:
  • Driver absences
  • Non-attendance
  • Vehicle defects
  • Vehicle breakdowns
  • Last-minute operational changes
• Source agency driver covers when required.
• Re-plan deliveries and collections quickly in response to operational disruptions.
• Assist with driver debrief processes and related administrative duties.

Customer Service & Communication

• Provide proactive communication to customers regarding:
  • Delivery progress
  • Collection status
  • Estimated times of arrival (ETAs)
  • Service disruptions
  • Delivery exceptions
• Handle customer concerns, escalations, and service-related enquiries professionally and efficiently.
• Respond to incoming messages and queries through Contrado and other communication systems.
• Ensure all incoming customer and operational telephone calls are managed promptly and effectively.

Systems & Administration

• Utilise Transport Management Systems (TMS), including Haultech and Contrado, to:
  • Plan routes
  • Allocate vehicles and drivers
  • Record operational data
  • Maintain accurate transport records
• Update Contrado and Haultech with relevant notes and operational information.
• Ensure redelivery and return jobs are entered accurately, including correct delivery dates and customer information.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records in line with company procedures.

Compliance & Performance

• Ensure compliance with all applicable legislation, including:
  • Driver Hours Regulations
  • Tachograph Regulations
  • Working Time Directive
  • Vehicle weight restrictions
  • Road transport compliance requirements
• Monitor and support vehicle maintenance scheduling requirements.
• Track and analyse key operational KPIs, including:
  • On-time delivery performance
  • Vehicle utilisation
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Cost per mile
• Identify trends and opportunities for operational improvements and cost reduction.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with:
  • General Haulage Planning Team
  • Palletline Planning Team
  • Warehouse Operations
  • Customer Service Department
  • Transport Management
• Identify periods of excess volume and support effective resource planning through vehicle allocation and subcontractor utilisation when necessary.
• Develop skills across both General Haulage and Palletline operations to provide wider team support and operational resilience.
• Support colleagues across planning functions during periods of absence, holiday cover, or increased workload.