Transport Planner / Dispatcher

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 200,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

provident fund

Hybrid work arrangement

Training and development

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Transport Planner/Dispatcher for our client in Vereeniging, Gauteng. The role blends on-site coordination with remote monitoring of logistics software to ensure timely, budget-conscious deliveries across South Africa.

The candidate should have proven dispatch experience, strong route knowledge, and familiarity with TMS and GPS tracking. A hybrid working arrangement is offered to support operations and driver management.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Transport Planner or Dispatcher in logistics.
• Strong knowledge of South Africa routes and geography.
• Familiarity with transport regulations and driver hours.
• Ability to coordinate drivers, vehicles, and loads.
• Experience with dispatch software and real-time tracking.

Responsibilities

• Plan daily routes for a fleet optimizing efficiency and cost.
• Assign drivers and vehicles to routes, ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Monitor deliveries in real-time using GPS tracking.
• Respond to disruptions and implement corrective actions.
• Communicate delivery status with drivers, warehouse, and customers.
• Maintain records of dispatched loads and delivery times.
• Ensure compliance with transit laws and regulations.
• Liaise with third-party carriers when needed.
• Analyze route performance for improvements and savings.
• Assist onboarding and training of new dispatch staff.

Skills

Route planning

Dispatch coordination

GPS tracking

TMS familiarity

Excel proficiency

Driver hours regulations

Communication

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma; logistics/SCM education a plus

Tools

TMS software

GPS tracking software

MS Office (Excel)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a national logistics and freight forwarding company, is seeking a skilled and proactive Transport Planner/Dispatcher to join their operations team in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This role is central to ensuring the efficient and timely movement of goods across various destinations. The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational skills, a strong understanding of transportation regulations, and the ability to manage complex scheduling and dispatching tasks. You will be responsible for planning optimal routes, assigning vehicles and drivers, and monitoring deliveries to ensure they are completed on schedule and within budget. This hybrid role requires a balance of on-site coordination with operational teams and potential remote monitoring of logistics software. You will play a key part in maintaining service levels and customer satisfaction by ensuring a smooth flow of operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and schedule daily delivery routes for a fleet of vehicles, optimizing for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Assign drivers and vehicles to specific routes and loads, ensuring compliance with driver hour regulations.
• Monitor the progress of deliveries in real-time using GPS tracking and communication systems.
• Respond promptly to any disruptions or delays, such as traffic issues or vehicle breakdowns, and implement solutions.
• Communicate effectively with drivers, warehouse staff, customers, and management regarding delivery status.
• Maintain accurate records of dispatched loads, delivery times, and any exceptions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant transportation laws and regulations.
• Manage relationships with third-party carriers when required.
• Analyze route performance data to identify areas for improvement and cost savings.
• Assist with the onboarding and training of new drivers on dispatch procedures.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; further education in Logistics or Supply Chain Management is a plus.
• Proven experience as a Transport Planner, Dispatcher, or in a similar logistics coordination role.
• Strong knowledge of transportation routes and geography within South Africa.
• Familiarity with transport management systems (TMS) and GPS tracking software.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make quick, effective decisions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Understanding of relevant transport regulations (e.g., driver hours, vehicle maintenance).
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work flexible hours as needed.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including medical aid and a provident fund.
• This hybrid position provides flexibility while ensuring crucial on-site operational oversight.
• Employees have access to continuous training and development opportunities to enhance their skills in the logistics field.
• You will work within a supportive team environment at a key logistics hub in Vereeniging .
• The company is committed to operational excellence and provides the tools and technology necessary for success.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the organization are available for high-performing individuals.
• Contribute to a vital function that keeps the wheels of commerce turning smoothly.
• Enjoy a role that combines strategic planning with dynamic, real-time problem-solving.