Position Overview
A Drayage Dispatcher is responsible for coordinating the transportation of goods from ports to their final inland destinations. This role involves managing truck drivers, scheduling pickups and deliveries, and ensuring timely and efficient transportation operations. The Drayage Dispatcher plays a critical role in supply chain management and logistics, ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
- Scheduling and Coordination
- Plan, schedule, and coordinate the movement of goods from ports to warehouses, distribution centers, or other final destinations.
- Assign drivers to specific routes and deliveries based on availability, location, and delivery requirements.
- Monitor and track shipments to ensure on-time delivery.
- Serve as the main point of contact between drivers, customers, and other stakeholders.
- Communicate delivery instructions, route changes, and any delays to drivers and customers.
- Provide timely updates to customers regarding the status of their shipments.
- Address and resolve any issues or delays that arise during the transportation process.
- Coordinate with other departments to resolve issues related to customs, freight, or port operations.
- Implement contingency plans to mitigate any potential disruptions.
- Documentation and Compliance
- Ensure all transportation documentation is accurate and complete, including bills of lading, shipping manifests, and customs paperwork.
- Maintain records of driver assignments, delivery schedules, and shipment details.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant transportation regulations and company policies.
- Manage and monitor driver performance, including adherence to schedules, safety protocols, and customer service standards.
- Conduct regular check-ins with drivers to address any concerns and provide support.
- Assist in the recruitment, training, and development of drivers as needed.
- Utilize transportation management software (TMS) to optimize routing, scheduling, and tracking.
- Monitor real-time data to adjust plans as necessary and improve efficiency.
- Analyze transportation metrics and reports to identify areas for improvement.
Qualifications
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or certifications in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field is a plus.
- Experience: Previous experience in logistics, transportation, or drayage operations is preferred.
- Skills:
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Problem-solving skills and the ability to think on your feet.
- Proficiency with transportation management software (TMS) and other relevant technology.
- Knowledge of transportation regulations and compliance requirements.
- Attributes:
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Strong customer service orientation.
Working Conditions
- The role typically involves working in an office environment, with some time spent in the field or at ports.
- May require working outside of regular business hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate transportation schedules and resolve issues.
Conclusion
The Drayage Dispatcher is a vital role in the logistics and transportation industry, ensuring the efficient and timely delivery of goods from ports to their final destinations. This position requires strong organizational skills, excellent communication abilities, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.
