Transport Planner – Container

Location:

Southampton, Hampshire

Company: (Not specified) - Salary: £30,000 – £38,000 per annum

Our client, a well‑established transport and logistics business based in Southampton, is currently seeking an experienced Transport Planner to join their growing team.

Reporting to the Transport Manager, the Transport Planner will play a key role in organising the daily routing and scheduling of vehicles, prioritising workloads, and briefing/de‑briefing drivers on their daily duties. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring efficient fleet utilisation while maintaining high levels of customer service and operational compliance.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a reputable company operating within the container transport sector. Candidates with proven transport planning experience and container logistics knowledge are encouraged to apply by submitting an up‑to‑date CV as soon as possible.

• Plan and route vehicles on a daily basis to maximise efficiency and profitability.
• Coordinate container movements to and from ports and customer locations.
• Liaise with customers, drivers, shipping lines, and subcontractors via phone and email.
• Monitor and manage vehicle and driver availability.
• Conduct daily driver checks to ensure compliance with company and legal requirements.
• Ensure adherence to drivers’ hours, Working Time Directive, and tachograph regulations.
• Manage and resolve operational issues as they arise.
• Approve drivers’ timesheets and maintain accurate transport records.
• Assist with pre‑planning and resource allocation to meet customer demands.
• Manage driver holidays and absence to maintain service levels.

• Previous experience in a Transport Planner role is essential.
• Container transport planning experience is essential.
• Strong geographical knowledge of the UK transport network and ports.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
• Good IT skills and experience using transport management systems.
• Strong commercial awareness within the transport and logistics industry.
• CPC qualification and port booking system experience would be advantageous.

• Competitive salary £30,000 – £38,000
• Weekly lottery (chance to win one thousand pounds every week)
• 25 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays