Load Planner

Position: Load Planner

Reports To: Operations Manager

Job Summary

As a Load Planner at UACL Logistics, you will play a critical role in optimizing the logistics and transportation operations. Your primary responsibility is to plan and coordinate loads, ensuring efficient use of equipment and resources while meeting customer service requirements. You will work closely with Fleet Managers, contractors, and other departments to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods.

Key Responsibilities

Load Planning & Coordination

• Develop and implement efficient load plans that maximize equipment utilization and minimize costs.
• Assign loads to contractors based on availability, location, and load requirements.
• Coordinate with Fleet Managers and contractors to ensure timely load dispatch and delivery.
• Monitor and adjust load plans in response to changes in demand, equipment availability, and other variables.

Customer Service

• Maintain clear and effective communication with customers to understand their transportation needs and ensure high levels of service.
• Address customer inquiries and resolve issues related to load planning and delivery schedules.
• Work with the customer service team to ensure accurate and timely updates on load status and delivery times.

Data Management & Reporting

• Enter and maintain accurate load and shipment data in the company’s transportation management system.
• Generate reports on load performance, equipment utilization, and other key metrics.
• Analyze data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement in load planning processes.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure all loads comply with company policies, industry regulations, and safety standards.
• Understanding customer scorecards and coordinating with management to maintain goals.
• Work with the Compliance Department to ensure contractors adhere to all required compliance and safety protocols.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with Fleet Managers, contractors, and other departments to coordinate load assignments and address operational issues.
• Facilitate communication between contractors and customers to ensure smooth transportation operations.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Provide carryover communications for afterhours to be aware of load activity for Centralized Dispatch.
• Provide feedback to Sales team and Pricing on exploring opportunity with RFQs.

Problem Solving & Flexibility

• Address and resolve issues related to load planning, such as delays, equipment breakdowns, or changes in customer requirements.
• Adjust load plans as needed to accommodate unforeseen circumstances and ensure timely delivery of goods.
• To avoid service failures, to coordinate with 3rd party providers and UACL fleet for recovery.
• Be flexible and proactive in managing multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in load planning, logistics, or a similar role.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in using transportation management systems and other logistics software.
• Knowledge of industry regulations and safety standards.
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.

Expectations & Performance Criteria

• Period over period review showing an increase in order volume, rate per mile, and reduction in empty miles.
• Period over period review showing increased operating revenue.
• Timely data entry for orders, dispatch, and ensuring invoicing process is starting immediately upon delivery. Coordinating with collections in the event of customer disputes.
• Increasing roster of approved brokerages and approved customers; by extension, expanding available load opportunities. The success necessitating coordination with the sales team.
• Increased carrier participation rates with existing customers brought to UACL through sales agents.