Transport Planner Southampton

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

Job summary

A respected transport company in Southampton is seeking an Experienced Traffic Operator to coordinate daily delivery and collection operations across the UK. The ideal candidate will have strong transport planning experience, excellent communication skills, and knowledge of TMS software. The role involves liaising effectively with drivers and customers, ensuring compliance with transport legislation, and providing support in a fast-paced environment. Competitive pay and opportunities for progression are offered.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Supportive team environment

Opportunities for progression

Qualifications

• Experience in transport planning or a related role.
• Ability to plan container or groupage loads.
• Proven ability to work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Plan and route deliveries and collections across the UK.
• Ensure compliance with transport legislation.
• Liaise with drivers and customers to maintain standards.

Skills

Transport planning experience

Geographical knowledge of the UK

Communication skills

Customer service skills

Proactive problem-solving

IT skills with TMS software

Tools

Transport Management System (TMS)

VBS booking system

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