At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate delivery schedules and optimise transport operations in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join a leading Builders Merchants in the Midlands with a dynamic team.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in logistics and enhance your organisational skills.
- Other info: Temporary role with potential for future opportunities in a thriving industry.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on transport efficiency while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience in logistics and strong knowledge of West Midlands geography preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Best Connection is recruiting a Route Planner to join a busy transport team at their Walsall branch on a temporary basis (4-8 weeks). This is a fast‑paced and varied role, where you will play a key part in ensuring the efficiency of transport operations and supporting overall branch performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate daily delivery schedules for branch vehicles, including HGVs with HIAB cranes
- Liaise with depot managers to ensure efficient inter‑branch planning
- Work closely with yard staff to ensure correct loading of vehicles
- Manage routing to maximise delivery efficiency and vehicle capacity
- Monitor dispatch of all deliveries from the yard
- Organise inter‑branch stock transfers
- Maintain accurate transport paperwork and filing systems
- Assist with driver holiday/absence planning and adjust schedules accordingly
- Balance yard and warehouse workloads to ensure timely vehicle loading
- Handle delivery‑related customer queries and complaints professionally
- Manage vehicle breakdowns and arrange repairs with external providers
- Ensure all transport activities comply with Road Transport Directive, Working Time Directive (WTD), and Drivers' Hours Regulations
- Maintain awareness of VOSA regulations
- Support vehicle defect reporting and repair coordination
- Oversee required inspections (6‑weekly checks, LOLER inspections, etc.)
Key Skills & Experience
- Previous experience in a logistics or route planning environment
- Strong knowledge of the West Midlands geography (Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Dudley – wider regions desirable)
- Excellent organisational and problem‑solving skills
- Ability to work effectively in a busy transport environment
- Strong communication skills with a customer‑focused approach
- Good level of computer literacy, particularly Microsoft Excel
Desirable (but not essential)
- CPC qualification
- Experience with HIAB vehicles
- Knowledge of routing software
- Understanding of building materials and load planning
Personal Qualities
- High levels of energy, drive, and attention to detail
- Ability to prioritise workloads effectively
- Team player with a proactive attitude
- Confident decision‑maker in a fast‑paced environment
Temporary Route Planner: Transport & Delivery Scheduling in Walsall employer: The Best Connection
As a leading Builders Merchants in Walsall, our client offers a dynamic work environment where employees are valued and encouraged to grow. With a focus on teamwork and efficiency, the company provides opportunities for professional development while ensuring a supportive culture that prioritises employee well-being. Join us for a rewarding experience in a fast-paced logistics role that plays a crucial part in the success of transport operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Temporary Route Planner: Transport & Delivery Scheduling in Walsall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the transport and logistics industry, especially those who work in route planning. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at a job fair or an informal meet-up, be ready to discuss your experience with HGVs and your knowledge of West Midlands geography. Make it clear how you can help them streamline their operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you want to work for, don’t wait for them to post a job. Reach out directly through our website and express your interest in working as a Route Planner. Sometimes, showing initiative can land you a role before it’s even advertised.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on relevant regulations and best practices in transport logistics. Be ready to discuss how you would handle real-life scenarios, like managing vehicle breakdowns or dealing with customer complaints. Confidence is key!
We think you need these skills to ace Temporary Route Planner: Transport & Delivery Scheduling in Walsall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Route Planner role. Highlight any relevant experience in logistics or route planning, and don’t forget to mention your knowledge of the West Midlands geography. We want to see how you fit into our fast-paced environment!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this temporary role. Share specific examples of your organisational skills and problem-solving abilities. We love a good story that showcases your experience!
Show Off Your Tech Skills:Since the role requires a good level of computer literacy, especially with Microsoft Excel, make sure to mention any relevant software experience in your application. If you've used routing software before, let us know – it could give you an edge!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Best Connection
✨Know Your Routes
Familiarise yourself with the geography of the West Midlands, especially Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Dudley. Being able to discuss specific routes and how you would optimise them during the interview will show your knowledge and preparedness.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples from your past experience where you successfully coordinated delivery schedules or managed logistics. Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you handled any challenges that arose in a busy transport environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since strong communication is key in this role, be ready to demonstrate how you would handle customer queries or complaints professionally during the interview.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Brush up on your knowledge of transport regulations, including the Road Transport Directive and Drivers' Hours Regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance in your role as a Route Planner.
