Transport Planner

365 People; Widnes; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave 25d

Company pension

Training & development

Supportive team

Container logistics knowledge

Job summary

365 People in Widnes is seeking an experienced Transport Planner to join a family-run logistics operation. You will plan daily container movements, optimise vehicle utilisation and liaise with drivers, customers and internal teams to ensure smooth operations.

We value proactive problem-solvers with strong organisational skills and knowledge of UK driver hours regulations. The role offers a supportive environment, ongoing training and clear long-term progression within container logistics.

Qualifications

• Experience in transport/logistics planning.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Proficient IT skills with transport planning systems.
• Ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks.
• Proactive approach with attention to detail.
• Knowledge of UK driver hours regulations and transport legislation.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate daily container collections and deliveries.
• Book port and terminal time slots to ensure efficient scheduling.
• Build and manage transport plans across multiple vehicle movements.
• Liaise with drivers, customers and internal departments throughout the day.
• Monitor vehicle progress and respond quickly to operational changes.
• Ensure compliance with driver hours regulations and transport legislation.
• Maximise vehicle utilisation while maintaining excellent customer service.
• Manage transport planning systems and update job information accurately.
• Resolve planning issues and communicate changes effectively.
• Work closely with the warehouse and commercial teams to ensure seamless operations.

Job description

Transport Planner

Location: Widnes, Cheshire

The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Transport Planner to join a well-established, family-run logistics business based in Widnes. This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a close-knit transport team where you’ll play a key role in planning and coordinating daily container movements. Working in a fast-paced environment, you’ll be responsible for ensuring vehicles are utilised efficiently while delivering exceptional service to customers.

No two days are the same, so we’re looking for someone who enjoys problem-solving, can think ahead, and thrives under pressure.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate daily container collections and deliveries.
• Book port and terminal time slots to ensure efficient scheduling.
• Build and manage transport plans across multiple vehicle movements.
• Liaise with drivers, customers and internal departments throughout the day.
• Monitor vehicle progress and respond quickly to operational changes.
• Ensure compliance with driver hours regulations and transport legislation.
• Maximise vehicle utilisation while maintaining excellent customer service.
• Manage transport planning systems and update job information accurately.
• Resolve planning issues and communicate changes effectively.
• Work closely with the warehouse and commercial teams to ensure seamless operations.

About You

We’re looking for someone with previous transport planning experience who enjoys working in a busy logistics environment.

You’ll ideally have:

• Previous experience within transport or logistics planning.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Good IT skills and confidence using transport planning systems.
• The ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• A proactive approach with excellent attention to detail.
• Knowledge of UK driver hours regulations and transport legislation.
• A flexible attitude and willingness to support the wider team.

Experience planning container movements would be highly advantageous. However, planners from general haulage, pallet network, distribution or other transport sectors who are keen to learn will also be considered.

What’s on Offer

• Monday to Friday working.
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
• Company pension.
• Ongoing training and development.
• A friendly, supportive and down-to-earth working environment.
• The opportunity to develop specialist knowledge within container logistics.
• Long-term career progression within a growing logistics operation.

Why Apply?

You’ll be joining a business that genuinely values its people. As part of a small and supportive team, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact, take ownership of your workload and continue developing your career in transport planning. If you’re looking for a varied role where your planning skills will be recognised and valued, we’d love to hear from you