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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Transport Coordinator

💰 $45,000 - $65,000

LogisticsSupply ChainTransportationCoordination

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a master of logistics with a passion for problem-solving? We're searching for a dedicated and detail-oriented Transport Coordinator to join our dynamic supply chain team. In this pivotal role, you will be the central hub of our transportation network, responsible for orchestrating the seamless movement of products from origin to destination. You will coordinate with carriers, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure shipments are on time, within budget, and compliant with all regulations. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, possesses exceptional communication skills, and has a knack for optimizing processes to enhance efficiency and drive success.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Logistics Clerk / Assistant
  • Dispatcher / Dispatch Assistant
  • Warehouse Associate / Shipping & Receiving Clerk

Advancement To:

  • Senior Transport Coordinator / Transportation Lead
  • Logistics Manager / Supervisor
  • Fleet Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Procurement Specialist / Buyer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Orchestrate and meticulously monitor all daily transport operations, ensuring a seamless and efficient flow of goods from origin to final destination.
  • Manage the daily scheduling and coordination of drivers and carriers, aligning assignments with shipment requirements, driver availability, and compliance with hours-of-service regulations.
  • Serve as the primary point of communication between internal departments, suppliers, carriers, and customers, proactively addressing inquiries and resolving issues to ensure high levels of satisfaction.
  • Leverage advanced Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and other logistics software to optimize shipping routes, track carrier performance, and streamline operational procedures.
  • Develop comprehensive shipment plans and actively track the progress of all deliveries in real-time, providing timely updates and managing exceptions to meet and exceed customer expectations.
  • Maintain meticulous and accurate records of all transportation activities, including shipment logs, carrier documentation, bills of lading, and delivery receipts for compliance and auditing purposes.
  • Act as the first point of contact for resolving transportation disruptions, including shipment delays, damages, or carrier failures, by implementing swift and effective contingency plans.
  • Engage in rate negotiations with freight carriers and third-party logistics (3PL) providers to secure competitive pricing while maintaining high service level standards.
  • Guarantee full compliance with all local, national, and international transportation regulations, including DOT, FMCSA, and customs requirements, to mitigate risk.
  • Conduct thorough audits of freight invoices against negotiated rates and service agreements, identifying and resolving discrepancies to ensure accurate billing and cost control.
  • Cultivate and maintain strong, professional relationships with a network of transportation carriers, conducting regular performance reviews and fostering collaborative partnerships.
  • Collaborate closely with warehouse and shipping/receiving teams to coordinate efficient and safe loading and unloading schedules, minimizing dock congestion and vehicle turnaround times.
  • Manage the booking and scheduling of a high volume of domestic and international shipments across various modes, including LTL, FTL, air, and ocean freight.
  • Respond promptly to requests for freight quotes from sales and customer service teams, providing accurate and competitive pricing options.
  • Perform strategic carrier selection for each shipment, balancing cost, service level agreements, and transit time requirements to optimize the overall supply chain.
  • Proactively identify and recommend opportunities for transportation cost savings, process efficiencies, and service enhancements through data analysis and industry knowledge.
  • Prepare, review, and manage all necessary customs documentation for international freight, ensuring accuracy and compliance with import/export regulations.

Secondary Functions

  • Support the end-to-end freight claim process, from initial filing to resolution, to recover costs for lost or damaged goods.
  • Generate and analyze detailed operational reports for management, highlighting key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time performance and cost per shipment.
  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis to identify logistics trends.
  • Contribute to the organization's broader supply chain strategy and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the logistics team.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Transportation Management Systems (TMS): Proficiency in using TMS platforms (e.g., MercuryGate, Oracle TM, SAP TM) for booking, tracking, and reporting.
  • Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in MS Excel (VLOOKUPs, pivot tables), Word, and Outlook for data analysis, reporting, and communication.
  • ERP Systems: Experience with enterprise resource planning software like SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics for order management.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Strong understanding of transportation regulations, including DOT, FMCSA, and customs compliance for international shipping.
  • Freight Quoting & Booking: Demonstrated ability to obtain quotes, compare carrier rates, and book shipments across multiple modes (LTL, FTL, Air, Ocean).
  • Geographical Acuity: Solid knowledge of North American geography, including major shipping lanes and transportation hubs.

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving: Exceptional ability to think critically and resolve logistical challenges and disruptions under pressure.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear and effective interaction with drivers, carriers, and internal stakeholders.
  • Organization & Time Management: Superior organizational skills with the ability to prioritize a high volume of tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to managing documentation, tracking shipments, and auditing invoices to ensure accuracy.
  • Negotiation: Strong negotiation skills for securing favorable rates and terms with transportation providers.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build and maintain positive, professional relationships with a diverse group of partners and colleagues.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Supply Chain Management
  • Logistics & Transportation
  • Business Administration

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of direct experience in a transportation, logistics coordination, or dispatch role.

Preferred:

  • Experience in a high-volume manufacturing, distribution, or 3PL environment is highly desirable.
  • Direct experience coordinating a mix of freight modes (LTL, FTL, intermodal) is a significant plus.
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