Transport Planner - Freight

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Stable environment

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a Paarl-based freight and logistics leader, seeks a meticulous Transport Planner. You will plan daily routes, optimize loads, coordinate with drivers and warehouses, and manage carriers to ensure timely, cost‑effective deliveries.

Candidate should have 3+ years in transport planning or freight management, experience with TMS or similar software, and a relevant logistics qualification. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years in transport planning, logistics coordination, or freight management.
• Experience in route planning and optimization using TMS or similar software.
• Strong understanding of freight operations and carrier management.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with quick decision-making.
• Proficiency in Excel for data analysis and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Plan and schedule daily transportation routes for a fleet of vehicles.
• Optimize load configurations and route planning to maximize capacity and minimize mileage.
• Coordinate with drivers and warehouse staff for loading/unloading.
• Manage third-party carriers, negotiate rates and ensure SLAs.
• Monitor shipments and address delays or issues proactively.
• Communicate delivery schedules and updates to customers.
• Analyze data to identify trends and cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with driver hours and safety standards.
• Maintain records of routes, schedules, and costs.
• Collaborate with sales/operations to align with business objectives.

Skills

Transport planning

Route optimization

Data analysis

Communication

Excel

Education

Logistics / Supply Chain qualification

Tools

TMS

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading freight and logistics company based in Paarl, Western Cape, is looking for a meticulous and proactive Transport Planner to manage and optimize their daily freight operations. This critical role involves planning, scheduling, and coordinating the movement of goods to ensure efficient, cost-effective, and timely deliveries. You will be responsible for route optimization, load consolidation, and managing carrier relationships to meet customer demands. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the transportation industry, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. This position requires strong analytical abilities and effective communication skills to liaise with drivers, customers, and internal teams within the Paarl, Western Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and schedule daily transportation routes for a fleet of vehicles to ensure timely and efficient deliveries.
• Optimize load configurations and route planning to maximize capacity utilization and minimize mileage.
• Coordinate with drivers and warehouse staff to ensure smooth loading and unloading processes.
• Select and manage relationships with third-party carriers when required, negotiating rates and ensuring service level agreements are met.
• Monitor the progress of shipments and proactively address any delays or issues that may arise.
• Communicate effectively with customers regarding delivery schedules, updates, and any potential disruptions.
• Analyze transportation data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for cost reduction and service improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant transportation regulations, including driver hours of service and vehicle safety standards.
• Maintain accurate records of all transportation activities, including routes, schedules, and costs.
• Collaborate with the sales and operations teams to ensure alignment with business objectives and customer requirements.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in transport planning, logistics coordination, or freight management.
• Proven experience in route planning and optimization using transportation management systems (TMS) or similar software.
• Strong understanding of freight operations, including different modes of transport and carrier management.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make quick, informed decisions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, for data analysis and reporting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with drivers, customers, and internal teams.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• A relevant qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is advantageous.
• Must be based in or able to commute reliably to Paarl, Western Cape.
• A valid driver's license is an added advantage.

Benefits

• An annual salary of ZAR , commensurate with your planning expertise.
• Potential for annual bonuses based on operational efficiency and cost savings.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced logistics planning.
• A stable and supportive work environment within a well-established company.
• Exposure to diverse freight operations within the Western Cape.