Road Haulage Load Planner
What is the work like?
Load planners control the transfer of freight around the country, making sure it is moved in the most efficient way, taking into account schedules, costs, and health and safety. Planners work for road haulage companies and businesses in other sectors who have their own fleet of vehicles, for example retailers.
As a load planner you would:
- select the right number of vehicles for each consignment
- forecast budgets for goods transportation
- plan the safest way to load and unload goods
- monitor shipments along routes
- review load plans with clients
- make back-up plans to cover changes in circumstances.
You may use computer software packages to help with some of these tasks, for example, to match the size of loads with the vehicles needed to move them.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not need any particular qualifications to start work as a trainee load planner, although a good standard of education is helpful. For example, some employers may ask for GCSE passes in English and maths.
If you have previous experience of working in transport or distribution, you will be at an advantage. A background in stock control or administration could also be useful.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme with a road haulage firm. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
What further training and development can I do?
You would normally receive on-the-job training once you are employed as a load planner. This often involves working towards a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in National or International Road Haulage.
You may be able to take the NVQ levels 2 and 3 in Distribution, Warehousing and Storage Operations. Your employer would decide whether this is needed for your role.
See the Skills for Logistics website for more details about training courses.
You could also take the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK (CILT) Certificate, Diploma and Advanced Diploma qualifications for professional development purposes. You can find training colleges and distance learning options on the CILT website.
Where can I go for more information?
14 Warren YardWarren Farm Office Village
Stratford Road
Milton Keynes
MK12 5NW
Tel: 0870 242 7314
Earlstrees Court
Earlstrees Road
Corby
Northants
NN17 4AX
Tel: 01536 740100
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries are between £14,500 and £18,500 a year.
- This can rise to between £20,000 and £25,000 a year for senior positions.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would often be required to work shifts on a rota basis to cover early mornings and late nights.
The job would normally ba based in an office within a warehouse or haulage depot.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good customer service and communication skills
- problem solving skills and the ability to adapt plans
- computer skills
- the ability to work flexibly within a team
- good negotiating skills
- the ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.
What opportunities are there?
Load planners are employed by haulage, removal and courier firms, as well as the distribution departments of large companies.
You may be able to gain promotion in larger organisations to senior or regional load planner. After gaining relevant qualifications, you may also be able to move into positions in distribution, supply chain or transport management.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
Careers in Logistics
Jobs in Transport
Transport Jobs Network
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