Transportation Planner

Overview

Mesquite, TX, USPresencial

Requirements

##### High school diploma or GED equivalent required
##### Background in freight planning, carrier coordination, transportation operations, or logistics
##### Strong analytical thinking with ability to interpret freight data, lane performance, and cost metrics to make fast, informed decisions
##### Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to collaborate with internal teams and external carrier partners
##### Problem-solving mindset with resourceful and proactive approach to resolving freight challenges and capacity issues
##### Tech proficiency with familiarity in transportation management systems (TMS), load planning tools, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
##### Strong organizational and time management skills with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
##### Understanding of transportation industry terminology, pricing, and freight operations
##### Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure
##### Customer service orientation with professional communication style

##### Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field
##### 2-4 years of experience in freight planning, transportation coordination, or logistics operations
##### Experience with trailer pool management or asset optimization
##### Familiarity with TMS platforms such as MercuryGate, TMW, McLeod, or similar systems
##### Knowledge of DOT regulations, hours of service, and transportation compliance requirements
##### Understanding of furniture freight, LTL (Less Than Truckload), and dedicated fleet operations
##### Experience with carrier negotiation and rate analysis
##### Background in network optimization, routing, or supply chain planning
##### Advanced Excel skills including data analysis, pivot tables, and reporting
##### Understanding of freight costs including fuel surcharges, accessorial charges, and rate structures
##### Experience in retail, furniture, or distribution logistics

##### Coordinate inbound and outbound freight within a 24–72 hour planning window, ensuring optimal trailer utilization and on-time delivery across our transportation network
##### Develop and execute daily, weekly, and monthly freight plans to meet customer demand and service commitments
##### Analyze freight volumes, origins, destinations, and delivery requirements to create efficient load plans
##### Balance freight demand across multiple lanes and facilities to optimize network capacity
##### Monitor freight movements in real-time and adjust plans as conditions change
##### Coordinate with shipping and receiving facilities to ensure smooth freight flow and minimize delays

##### Monitor and adjust trailer pool allocations to reduce idle assets and improve turn times at customer locations
##### Track trailer inventory levels across the network and reposition assets as needed to meet demand
##### Analyze trailer utilization metrics and implement strategies to maximize asset productivity
##### Coordinate with operations teams on trailer availability, condition, and maintenance requirements
##### Develop trailer deployment strategies to minimize empty miles and optimize asset utilization
##### Maintain accurate records of trailer locations, movements, and assignments

##### Analyze lane-level data to match freight demand with available carrier capacity, making strategic decisions to accept, decline, or reroute freight based on cost, service, and network impact
##### Evaluate carrier performance, rates, and service levels to select optimal transportation providers
##### Negotiate spot rates and secure additional capacity during peak periods or capacity constraints
##### Identify opportunities to consolidate freight, optimize routing, and reduce transportation costs
##### Monitor lane performance metrics including cost per mile, on-time delivery, and capacity utilization
##### Develop contingency plans for capacity shortages, weather disruptions, or operational challenges

##### Partner with Customer Service, Sales, and Area Managers to align freight volumes with network commitments and develop proactive solutions for capacity constraints
##### Communicate freight plans, capacity issues, and service updates to internal stakeholders
##### Coordinate with warehouse operations on loading schedules, dock availability, and freight priorities
##### Work with procurement and carrier management teams on contract compliance and performance issues
##### Provide input to sales and customer service teams on capacity availability and service capabilities
##### Participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss network performance and improvement opportunities

##### Respond to dynamic freight needs by securing additional capacity, adjusting schedules, and leveraging transportation management systems (TMS) to maintain service and profitability
##### Troubleshoot and resolve freight planning issues including capacity shortages, routing problems, and delivery delays
##### Make real-time decisions on freight acceptance, carrier selection, and load routing based on cost and service priorities
##### Monitor market conditions and carrier availability to adjust plans and secure competitive rates
##### Escalate critical issues to management and coordinate resolution strategies

##### Maintain precise records in TMS (Transportation Management System), validate billing details, and ensure all freight planning data is entered correctly for operational transparency
##### Verify load information, rates, accessorial charges, and delivery details for accuracy
##### Generate reports on freight volumes, costs, capacity utilization, and performance metrics
##### Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide analysis to support continuous improvement
##### Ensure compliance with documentation requirements and maintain audit-ready records

##### Identify opportunities to improve freight planning processes, reduce costs, and enhance service levels
##### Analyze historical data and trends to forecast capacity needs and optimize network design
##### Recommend and implement best practices for freight planning and capacity management
##### Support strategic initiatives related to network optimization and transportation efficiency