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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Freight Dispatcher

💰 $45,000 - $75,000

LogisticsSupply ChainTransportation

🎯 Role Definition

As a Freight Dispatcher, you are the central command for transportation operations. You serve as the critical communication link between truck drivers, shippers, and brokers, ensuring that freight is moved safely, efficiently, and profitably. This role requires a strategic thinker who can navigate the complexities of the supply chain, from booking high-value loads to providing real-time solutions for on-the-road challenges. You are a master negotiator, a meticulous planner, and a problem-solver, directly impacting the bottom line and success of the entire fleet.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Customer Service Representative (Transportation/Logistics)
  • Truck Driver with an interest in operations

Advancement To:

  • Senior Freight Dispatcher / Dispatch Team Lead
  • Fleet Manager
  • Logistics Manager / Operations Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Freight Broker / Brokerage Agent
  • Load Planner
  • Supply Chain Analyst

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Proactively source and book profitable freight for our fleet of trucks using various load boards (e.g., DAT, Truckstop.com), direct shippers, and broker networks.
  • Conduct skilled rate negotiations with brokers and customers to maximize profitability per load while maintaining positive, long-term business relationships.
  • Develop and execute strategic, fuel-efficient route plans for drivers, considering factors like traffic, weather, HOS (Hours of Service) regulations, and delivery windows.
  • Serve as the primary point of communication for drivers, providing load information, routing instructions, and consistent support throughout their transit.
  • Monitor the location and progress of all active shipments using GPS tracking, ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data, and regular driver check-ins to ensure on-time performance.
  • Skillfully manage and resolve any in-transit issues, including truck breakdowns, traffic delays, weather disruptions, or appointment changes, by coordinating necessary resources.
  • Accurately input and maintain all load data, driver statuses, and communication logs within the Transportation Management System (TMS) in real-time.
  • Ensure all drivers and shipments are in strict compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, safety protocols, and company policies.
  • Coordinate pickup and delivery appointments with shippers and receivers, confirming details and proactively communicating any potential delays.
  • Build and cultivate a strong pipeline of relationships with reputable freight brokers, shippers, and industry partners to secure consistent and high-quality freight opportunities.
  • Manage and document accessorial charges, including detention, layovers, and Truck Order Not Used (TONU), ensuring they are properly billed and collected.
  • Review, verify, and process all necessary shipping documents, such as Bills of Lading (BOL), Proof of Delivery (POD), and carrier rate confirmations.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by delivering timely updates on shipment status to brokers and clients, fostering trust and repeat business.
  • Assist in the onboarding and training of new drivers, familiarizing them with company procedures, communication expectations, and technology usage.
  • Analyze market trends, lane history, and seasonal rate fluctuations to inform bidding strategies and load selection.
  • Collaborate with the safety department to address driver log violations, safety alerts, and promote a culture of safety across the fleet.
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  • Manage driver schedules to optimize their working hours, ensure adequate home time, and promote driver retention and satisfaction.
  • Resolve payment and billing discrepancies by collaborating with the accounting department and providing necessary documentation.
  • Evaluate carrier performance, equipment suitability, and insurance qualifications before booking loads with partner carriers.
  • Prepare and analyze reports on key performance indicators (KPIs), such as loaded miles, cost-per-mile, revenue per truck, and on-time delivery rates.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis related to fleet performance and lane profitability.
  • Contribute to the organization's logistics strategy and roadmap by providing operational insights.
  • Collaborate with business units to translate new customer needs into operational and dispatching requirements.
  • Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies if working within a technology-focused logistics team.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Load Board Proficiency: Deep expertise in using industry-leading load boards like DAT Power/Express, Truckstop.com, and other platforms to find and vet freight.
  • TMS Software Fluency: Hands-on experience with one or more Transportation Management Systems (TMS) for dispatching, tracking, and documentation.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Strong understanding of FMCSA and DOT regulations, including Hours of Service (HOS), weight limits, and compliance standards.
  • Route Planning & GPS: Skilled in using mapping and GPS software (e.g., Google Maps, PC*MILER, Trimble) for accurate and efficient route optimization.
  • Microsoft Office Suite: Competency in using Microsoft Excel for tracking data, Outlook for communication, and Word for documentation.
  • ELD Systems: Familiarity with various Electronic Logging Device (ELD) platforms to monitor driver availability and compliance.

Soft Skills

  • Masterful Negotiation: The ability to confidently and effectively negotiate freight rates and terms to ensure maximum profitability.
  • Exceptional Communication: Clear, concise, and professional verbal and written communication skills for interacting with drivers, brokers, and customers.
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  • High-Pressure Problem-Solving: The capacity to think critically and act decisively to resolve unexpected issues in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
  • Elite Multitasking: Proven ability to simultaneously manage multiple drivers, trucks, and shipments without sacrificing attention to detail.
  • Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills to develop and maintain positive, lasting relationships with drivers and business partners.
  • Composure & Stress Management: The resilience to remain calm, professional, and effective under pressure and during stressful situations.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Logistics & Supply Chain Management
  • Business Administration
  • Transportation Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of direct experience in freight dispatching, freight brokering, or a closely related role within the trucking industry.

Preferred: Demonstrable experience dispatching for a specific equipment type (e.g., Dry Van, Reefer, Flatbed) and a proven track record of managing a fleet of 5+ trucks. Experience working in a fast-growth environment is a significant plus.

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