Estimator & Load Planner Specialist Controller

AGL transport & logistics; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics firm operating in South Africa seeks a skilled individual for road freight transport planning. This role involves negotiating rates and preparing estimates, ensuring accuracy for profitability, and managing client relationships. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in freight transport brokering, a robust understanding of logistics practices, and strong negotiation and communication skills. Join a dynamic team that values effective interaction and satisfaction.

Qualifications

• 5 years hands-on experience in road freight transport brokering or planning.
• Freight forwarding experience in estimates is essential.
• Strong ability to analyse and compute optimum load plans for project cargo.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for project load planning and customer communications.
• Negotiate rates and compile accurate estimates.
• Maintain effective communication with internal staff.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Matric

Tools

MS Office

Transport/logistics management software

Job description

General information

With the group’s expertise of more than 50 years of experience and a continuous presence on the African continent, Africa Global Logistics South Africa provides end-to-end solutions with in-depth knowledge of the legal and cultural diversities specific to each country. Our powerful integrated global network and sustainable solutions enable innovative and flexible designs in their execution. AGL South Africa is your gateway throughout Africa, facilitating freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing and distribution activities for many multinational companies.

Job Title

PERMANENT

Job Location

Africa, South Africa, JOHANNESBURG

Mission Description

Job Purpose

• Responsible for all-round estimations of project and normal cargo for the entire Corridor. Duties include compiling load plans, conducting onsite visits to customers, vendors, and manufacturers to assess cargo weights and load plans. Ensure timely completion and submission of Road Freight estimates and load plans, including multi-modal disciplines (sea, air, road, projects, breakbulk, bulk, out of gauge).

Job Function

• Project / general cargo load planning
• Communicate directly with customers via phone or electronically.
• Obtain and evaluate relevant information to manage enquiries.
• Negotiate rates and compile estimates based on project/shipment requirements.
• Assess business viability, plan scope of work, quote, and present tenders.
• Ensure accuracy of all quotations (signed off by relevant BU Managers)
• Ensure quotations are profitable.
• Base quote negotiations on service quality and cost
• Coordinate with internal departments.
• Handover shipments to operations for new/existing business
• Negotiate rates with approved third parties.
• Manage general administrative tasks.
• Update quotation module consistently.
• Build positive customer relationships for efficient and satisfying interactions.

Profile

Rate Procurement & Estimates

• Negotiate road, sea, and air freight rates with suppliers.
• Analyse rates for best price and quality
• Generate and submit estimates per approved rates and deadlines.
• Monitor deadlines and success of estimates/tenders.
• Complete required reporting
• Maintain effective communication with internal staff.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

• Source rates and send accurate estimates as requested by clients/agents.
• Focus on Road Freight while including all transport modes.
• Register all quotes/outcomes weekly in the quotation module.
• Handover new business to operations with complete documentation
• Update rate sheets with quotes from Sales and transporters.
• Compile tenders for projects.
• Maintain regular client communication to ensure satisfaction.
• Update Concerto with all estimates and tenders.
• Ensure contact details are current.
• Assist external sales with identifying suitable hauliers.
• Keep records of rates for maximum mark-ups and negotiate best rates.
• Update operations with relevant shipping lines and buy rates.
• Follow up on quotations (accepted, in progress, lost, sent, follow-up)
• Perform any other reasonable tasks assigned by the manager.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

• Matric
• 5 years hands-on experience in a road freight transport brokering or planning role, Freight estimates, and operations experience.
• Freight forwarding experience in estimates is essential.
• Competence with MS Office and specialized transport/logistics management software.
• A solid understanding of logistics and fleet management practices.
• Strong ability to analyse and compute optimum load plans for project cargo.
• Understanding of abnormal cargo movement requirements and limitations
• Experience in road freight transport brokering, including specialized areas like flat deck, tautliner, and abnormal transport.
• A strong knowledge of efficient route planning and load scheduling to ensure timely deliveries.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to coordinate with transporters, customers, and leadership.
• A self-motivated and proactive attitude, able to work independently and manage tasks effectively.