Container Transport Planner

Job Title:
Container Transport Planner

Location: Felixstowe, IP11
Salary: £40,000 – £50,000 per annum + Company Car

We are seeking an experienced Container Transport Planner to join our client's busy transport operation based in Felixstowe. This role is critical to the efficient planning and execution of container movements to and from the Port of Felixstowe and surrounding areas. The successful candidate will be responsible for end-to-end planning, ensuring operational efficiency, driver utilisation, regulatory compliance, and high levels of customer service in a fast-paced port environment.

• Plan, route, and schedule container movements to maximise fleet and driver efficiency while meeting customer and port requirements.
• Dispatch vehicles and manage day-to-day traffic operations, responding effectively to changes, delays, and operational challenges.
• Liaise closely with port expeditors, terminal operators, supervisors, and fleet management teams to ensure smooth collection and delivery of containers.
• Monitor VBS bookings, terminal availability, and port systems to ensure timely access and minimise waiting times.
• Coordinate vehicle, trailer, and equipment availability, ensuring maintenance and servicing schedules are adhered to.
• Work alongside HR to manage driver-related matters including absence, hours compliance, and day-to-day operational issues.
• Ensure full compliance with transport legislation, driver hours, working time directive, and health & safety requirements.
• Oversee and maintain accurate transport documentation, ensuring records are completed correctly and on time.
• Act as a key point of contact for customers, providing updates, resolving issues, and maintaining strong working relationships.

• Proven experience in container transport planning is essential.
• Strong working knowledge of port and transport systems such as VBS, TOPS, Destin8, and/or Truckcom.
• Confident communicator, able to liaise effectively with drivers, customers, port authorities, and internal teams.
• Good understanding of transport compliance, driver hours, and safety regulations.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure port environment.