A truck dispatcher is responsible for coordinating the movement of goods and materials by road. They plan and schedule the delivery of shipments to ensure that they arrive at their destination on time and in good condition. They communicate with drivers, customers, and other stakeholders to ensure that everyone is on the same page. A truck dispatcher must be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and make quick decisions under pressure.
Tasks:
- Schedule and dispatch trucks to pick up and deliver goods and materials.
- Monitor the progress of shipments and communicate with drivers to ensure on-time delivery.
- Coordinate with customers and vendors to manage expectations and address any issues.
- Maintain accurate records of all dispatch activities and keep stakeholders informed of changes in schedules or routes.
- Manage and allocate resources, including vehicles, equipment, and personnel, to ensure that they are used efficiently.
- Monitor fuel consumption, driver hours, and vehicle maintenance to maximise efficiency and minimise costs.
Skills:
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Strong organisational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work well under pressure and make quick decisions.
- Knowledge of transportation laws and regulations.
- Familiarity with routing and scheduling software.
- Basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance and repair.
- Good problem-solving and analytical skills.
Personal Requirements
- Detail-oriented and meticulous.
- Customer-focused and service-oriented.
- Confident and decisive.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to handle stress and pressure.
A truck dispatcher plays a critical role in ensuring that goods and materials are delivered on time and in good condition. The role requires excellent communication and organisational skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and knowledge of transportation laws and regulations. A National Senior Certificate (Matric) or equivalent is required, and experience in logistics or transportation management is preferred. If you have a passion for logistics and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, a career as a truck dispatcher may be a great fit for you.
How to Enter
- National Senior Certificate (Matric) or equivalent.
- Experience in logistics or transportation management preferred.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and transportation management software.
- Valid driver's license.
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