Transport Planner Southampton

Meachers Global Logistics; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected family-owned transport company in Southampton is seeking an Experienced Traffic Operator. This role involves planning and managing the delivery of loads across the UK, ensuring compliance with transport regulations, and working closely with drivers and customers. Candidates should have experience in transport planning, excellent communication skills, and good IT abilities. This position offers a supportive team environment, competitive pay, and opportunities for progression.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Supportive team environment

Opportunities for progression

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a transport planning or back‑office transport role.
• Strong geographical knowledge of the UK.
• Good IT skills, including experience using TMS software.

Responsibilities

• Plan and route deliveries for full loads, groupage, and container traffic.
• Ensure compliance with road transport legislation and WTD.
• Liaise with drivers and customers to maintain service standards.
• Use TMS and tools to manage daily operations.

Skills

Transport planning experience

Geographical knowledge of the UK

Planning container or groupage loads

Excellent communication skills

IT skills including TMS software

Problem-solving approach

Education

CPC qualification (advantageous)

Tools

Transport Management System (TMS)

Job description

We are seeking an Experienced Traffic Operator to join our professional operations team in Southampton, supporting our general haulage, container and groupage operations across the UK. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a respected, family‑owned business with a strong reputation in the transport industry.

As a Transport Planner, you will be responsible for coordinating and managing the daily delivery and collection of full loads, groupage and container movements across the UK. You will ensure the efficient and compliant operation of our fleet, working closely with drivers, customers and colleagues in a busy transport office environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and route deliveries and collections for full loads, groupage, and container traffic across the UK
• Ensure compliance with all road transport legislation and the Working Time Directive (WTD)
• Liaise effectively with drivers and customers to maintain excellent service standards
• Complete all administrative tasks accurately and on time
• Manage driver hours, trailer rotation, and general fleet utilisation
• Plan and monitor container movements, including VBS bookings and port collections
• Use a computerised Transport Management System (TMS) and associated tools to manage daily operations
• Support the wider operations team to ensure efficiency and service excellence

About You

Essential Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in a transport planning or back‑office transport role
• Strong geographical knowledge of the UK
• Experience in planning container or groupage loads
• Knowledge of the VBS booking system and Container Exec preferred
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Proven ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced environment
• Good IT skills, including experience using TMS software
• A strong team ethic and a proactive, problem‑solving approach

Desirable

• CPC qualification (not essential but advantageous)

Hours & Benefits

• Hours: Rotational shifts between 06:00 and 18:00
• Weekend Work: 1 in 4 Saturday/Sunday mornings (additional payment provided)
• Benefits: Competitive pay, supportive team environment, and opportunities for progression