Duties of a Truck Dispatcher

The main tasks of a truck dispatcher are to prepare a transportation schedule and communicate with suppliers, vendors, and drivers. The content of this specialist’s job may vary somewhat from company to company. But there is a common range of responsibilities assigned to the truck dispatcher.

Coordination between drivers and customers

Truck dispatchers must continually communicate with drivers and customers to ensure timely delivery of cargo. Well-functioning communication leads to a strong and trusting relationship with customers and drivers and serves as the foundation for a long and fruitful collaboration.

Freight Scheduling

Truck dispatchers should develop the most efficient routes of travel in advance. Possible changes in weather conditions should be taken into account and alternative routes should be provided for. Professional trucking planning allows for reliable support for drivers in difficult situations.

Record Keeping

It is the responsibility of the truck dispatcher to record information about vehicle departure times and movements. Records are preferably in digital format. It is necessary to record the names of drivers and the time of their work, detailed schedule, loading and unloading of products. Timely and accurate record keeping ensures compliance with safety rules and facilitates resource allocation.

Answering Calls

Performing the duties of a truck dispatcher implies good communication skills. This professional needs to answer calls from drivers and customers in normal developments and in emergency situations. All calls need to be recorded in order to solve possible problems in the future.

Finding Customers and Discussing the Cost of Transportation

To expand the company’s customer base and increase income, truck dispatchers should periodically call potential customers. In the process of telephone conversations the cost of transportation, which suits both parties, is determined. The amount depends on the route and type of goods transported.

Making Decisions

In unforeseen situations, the truck dispatcher has to make his own decision and take responsibility. Timely solutions to problems can significantly limit unplanned costs associated with the safety of people and the maintenance and repair of vehicles. In each specific situation, the truck dispatcher must be able to prioritize correctly.

Regular Reports to Supervisors

Truck dispatchers are required to report all changes to management in a timely manner. Providing information promptly allows you to form a better idea of the situation in the trucking market and make the right decisions in the shortest possible time.