At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in planning vehicle schedules and manage daily operations for logistics.
- Company: Join a leading logistics company focused on innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Enjoy free parking, gym discounts, annual salary reviews, and 50% employee discounts.
- Other info: Great opportunities for progression and 24/7 mental health support.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in logistics with hands-on training and real impact.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for learning and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Planning Support & Job Allocation (Training Role)
- Assist planners with daily scheduling of vehicles and drivers to meet customer requirements.
- Learn how to allocate work based on:
- Vehicle type and availability (e.g., artics, rigids, tippers, hookloaders, flatbeds)
- Driver hours and legal compliance
- Collection/delivery time windows, locations and site constraints
- Help maintain the live planning board (TMS, spreadsheets, wall board, etc.) ensuring updates are accurate and timely.
- Monitor and update job progress throughout the day (delays, diversions, re-plans, cancellations).
Customer Service & Communication
- Answer incoming calls and emails professionally, acting as a reliable point of contact for customers, drivers and sites.
- Provide updates on ETAs, PODs, delays and collection times in line with service standards.
- Log customer requests accurately and, when required, escalate issues to the planner or manager.
- Support booking slots, confirm load details and ensure instructions are clear.
Driver Liaison & Operational Control
- Communicate clearly with drivers on job details, start times, route and site requirements.
- Inform drivers of changes due to traffic, site issues, breakdowns or late loads.
- Learn how to manage day‑to‑day operational issues such as failed collections/deliveries, missed time slots, on‑site refusals and wait time/detention.
- Record issues and actions taken to support investigation, invoicing and service improvement.
Compliance & Administration (Supported Learning)
- Assist with accurate completion and filing of operational paperwork, including delivery notes, PODs, job tickets and defect reporting logs.
- Support compliance processes under supervision, such as driver licence checks, tachograph/card downloads, scanning and proof of delivery/customer billing.
- Learn the basics of UK transport compliance, including drivers’ hours rules, vehicle safety checks and defect reporting, and transport documentation standards.
Continuous Improvement & Learning
- Take part in structured on‑the‑job training with regular progress reviews.
- Build competence in planning tools and systems (TMS, Excel, telematics portals, POD apps).
- Contribute ideas to improve planning efficiency, communication and customer service.
- Demonstrate increasing autonomy over time, e.g., managing a small fleet, customer group or specific contract lanes.
Benefits
- Free on‑site parking
- Corporate gym membership discount
- Annual salary review
- Employee discount (50% on Skip Hire, other discounts on group services)
- Progression opportunities
- 24 hour unlimited access to mental health support
Trainee Logistics Planner in Gloucester employer: Smith's Gloucester Limited
As a Trainee Logistics Planner, you will join a dynamic team that prioritises employee growth and development in a supportive work environment. With benefits such as free on-site parking, corporate gym membership discounts, and access to mental health support, our company fosters a culture of well-being and continuous improvement. Located in a vibrant area, we offer unique opportunities for career progression and the chance to make a meaningful impact in logistics planning.
Contact Details:
Smith's Gloucester Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Logistics Planner in Gloucester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the logistics industry on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be liaising with drivers and customers, being clear and professional is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay organised! Use tools like spreadsheets or apps to keep track of your job applications and follow-ups. This will help you stay on top of things and show potential employers that you're proactive.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us. Tailor your application to highlight your enthusiasm for logistics and how you can contribute to our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Logistics Planner in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Trainee Logistics Planner role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description, like planning support or customer service. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Show Your Enthusiasm:Let your passion for logistics and planning shine through in your application. We love candidates who are eager to learn and grow with us, so don’t hold back on expressing your excitement about the role and our company!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smith's Gloucester Limited
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Before the interview, brush up on the fundamentals of logistics planning. Understand vehicle types, driver hours, and compliance regulations. This knowledge will show your enthusiasm for the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with drivers and customers, practice clear and professional communication. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles or situations, as this will highlight your suitability for the position.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Planning Tools
Get to grips with common planning tools like TMS and Excel. If you have experience using similar software, be ready to discuss it. Showing that you're tech-savvy can give you an edge over other candidates.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of scenarios where you've had to manage unexpected issues, like delays or changes in plans. Be prepared to share these experiences during the interview, as they demonstrate your ability to handle operational challenges effectively.