At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan vehicle fleets to maximise utilisation and customer satisfaction.
- Company: Join Freightliner, the UK's largest maritime intermodal logistics operator with a strong European presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension scheme, life insurance, and family-friendly provisions.
- Other info: Access to 24/7 employee support and discounts on various brands.
- Why this job: Be part of an award-winning team focused on safety, innovation, and career development.
- Qualifications: Previous container transport planning experience and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.
Freightliner is the UK's largest maritime intermodal logistics operator, transporting containers from all major deep‑sea ports to our national network of inland terminals, and a leading operator in the UK Heavy Haul rail freight market. Freightliner has operations across Europe offering both Intermodal and Heavy Haul rail freight services seamlessly connecting European countries and the UK. In the UK the Freightliner Group operates under a number of legal entities including Freightliner Ltd, Pentalver Transport Ltd and Pentalver Cannock Ltd.
Job Details
- Job title: Transport Planner
- Location: Southampton
- Position type: Permanent, full‑time
- Hours of work: 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday (weekend cover on a rota basis)
Why join us
- Competitive Salary & Benefits: robust compensation package, competitive pension scheme, life insurance from day 1, 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Career Development and progression: regular training, external courses and in‑house sessions for skill enhancement.
- Award‑Winning Safety Culture: environment recognised for excellence and innovation.
- Generous family‑friendly provision with enhanced maternity and paternity pay; Work180 endorsed employer.
- Employee well‑being and support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, benefits platform with gym discounts, vouchers, cycle‑to‑work and tech schemes.
The role
We are looking for a skilled Transport Planner to support our award‑winning Planning team in Southampton. The role involves planning vehicle fleets to maximise utilisation and customer satisfaction, working collaboratively on projects and prioritising health and safety.
Key Responsibilities
- Produce a daily Transport Plan in line with customer orders, negotiating optimal times for fleet utilisation.
- Utilise vehicles effectively to support and maximise daily revenue targets.
- Provide new work quotations.
- Resource subcontractors, ensuring full induction and company standards are communicated and agreed.
- Negotiate subcontractor rates.
- Attend daily planning review meetings to approve next day and night plans.
- Ensure plans represent the best cost solutions.
- Update systems accurately, utilising available functionality.
- Ensure customer service levels with all customers are achieved.
- Collaborate with other depots throughout the UK to create a one‑stop solution for our customers.
About You
- Full understanding of Tachograph, working time and drivers’ hours regulations.
- Proven transport planning experience.
- Strong organisational skills.
- Excellent geographical knowledge.
- Excellent IT skills.
- Good communication skills.
- Knowledge of TOPS, Destin8 and VBS Systems.
- Previous container transport planning experience.
It’s Great But Not Required If You Have
- Transport Manager CPC or working towards it.
Please be advised that successful appointments are subject to a satisfactory DBS check.
Transport Planner in Southampton employer: Freightliner
Freightliner is an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including a robust pension scheme and life insurance from day one. Our award-winning safety culture and commitment to employee well-being, alongside ample career development opportunities through training and external courses, make us a standout choice for those seeking meaningful employment in the logistics sector. Located in Southampton, our collaborative work environment fosters growth and innovation, ensuring that every team member can thrive while contributing to our success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transport Planner in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific software and systems mentioned in the job description, such as TOPS and VBS. Having hands-on experience or even a basic understanding of these tools can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Freightliner or similar companies. Engaging with them on platforms like LinkedIn can provide you with insider knowledge about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on industry trends and regulations related to transport planning and logistics. Being able to discuss recent developments or challenges in the sector during your interview will demonstrate your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your organisational skills through examples from your previous experience. Think of specific instances where you successfully managed transport plans or improved efficiency, as this aligns directly with the responsibilities of the Transport Planner role.
We think you need these skills to ace Transport Planner in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in transport planning, particularly with container transport. Emphasise your organisational skills and any specific software knowledge like TOPS and VBS.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention your previous experience in logistics and how it aligns with Freightliner's operations and values.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, clearly outline your geographical knowledge, understanding of regulations, and IT skills. These are crucial for the Transport Planner role and should be front and centre.
Show Enthusiasm for Safety Culture:Freightliner prides itself on its safety culture. Make sure to express your commitment to health and safety in your application, perhaps by sharing examples from your past experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Freightliner
✨Know Your Transport Planning Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of transport planning principles, especially in relation to container logistics. Be prepared to discuss your previous experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
As a Transport Planner, strong organisational skills are crucial. Prepare examples from your past work where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously, showcasing your ability to prioritise effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Regulations
Understanding Tachograph, working time, and drivers' hours regulations is essential for this role. Be ready to discuss how you have applied these regulations in your previous roles and how they impact transport planning.
✨Showcase Your IT Proficiency
Since excellent IT skills are required, be prepared to talk about the software and systems you've used in transport planning, particularly TOPS and VBS. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your technical capabilities.
