Transportation Specialist

Cato Corporation; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Cato Corporation seeks a Transportation Specialist to coordinate inbound and outbound shipments, monitor carrier performance, and ensure timely delivery to stores and e-commerce customers.

The role serves as a liaison among distribution centers, carriers, and internal partners to maintain efficient, cost-effective transportation operations. A high school diploma and 1–3 years in logistics are required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1–3 years of transportation, logistics, or distribution experience.

Responsibilities

• Schedule and coordinate inbound and outbound shipments.
• Communicate with carriers to confirm pickup and delivery appointments.
• Monitor shipment status and address delays or service issues.
• Ensure accurate routing and documentation for store and e-commerce deliveries.
• Track carrier performance and freight costs.
• Prepare bills of lading and shipping manifests.
• Review freight invoices for accuracy and resolve discrepancies.
• Serve as point of contact for stores regarding shipment status.

Skills

Transportation management systems

DOT and freight regulations

Retail or apparel distribution

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Microsoft Office

Multitasking

Freight auditing / carrier performance

Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

TMS

WMS

Reporting tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Transportation Specialist supports daily transportation and logistics operations by coordinating inbound and outbound freight, monitoring carrier performance, and ensuring timely delivery of merchandise to retail stores and e-commerce customers.

This role serves as a key liaison between distribution centers, carriers, and internal partners to maintain efficient, cost-effective, and compliant transportation processes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Schedule and coordinate inbound and outbound shipments
• Communicate with carriers to confirm pickup and delivery appointments
• Monitor shipment status and proactively address delays or service issues
• Ensure accurate routing and documentation for store and e-commerce deliveries
• Support peak season shipping and special logistics projects
• Track carrier performance, on-time delivery, and freight costs
• Assist with freight claims for damaged or lost shipments
• Maintain strong working relationships with transportation providers
• Review freight invoices for accuracy and resolve discrepancies
• Support rate analysis and cost-control initiatives

Documentation & Systems

• Prepare and verify bills of lading, shipping manifests, and freight documentation
• Utilize transportation management systems (TMS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and reporting tools
• Maintain accurate shipment records and performance reports

Other Responsibilities:

• Serve as point of contact for stores and internal teams regarding shipment status
• Investigate and resolve delivery discrepancies
• Communicate operational updates to leadership
• Collaborate with distribution and inventory teams to align shipping priorities

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required
• 1–3 years of transportation, logistics, or distribution experience

Skills and Abilities Required:

• Experience with transportation management systems
• Knowledge of DOT and freight regulations
• Experience in retail or apparel distribution
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook)
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Familiarity with freight auditing or carrier performance tracking
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive motions throughout shift