Job Title: Intermodal & Dry Van Dispatcher - Local & Over The Road
Summary:
The Intermodal and Dry Van Dispatcher plays a critical role in daily freight coordination, responsible for managing local and over-the-road operations, dispatching company drivers and owner-operators, and ensuring on-time delivery of loads originating from or bound for port facilities and surrounding areas. This role requires exceptional communication, multitasking skills, and adaptability to a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Reports To: Division Manager
Key Responsibilities
Dispatch Operations:
- Coordinate and assign daily loads to company drivers and owner-operators for intermodal and dry van freight.
- Dispatch local and over-the-road (OTR) freight, ensuring on-time performance.
- Manage real-time updates on dispatch changes, equipment issues, or delays.
- Track driver assignments and ensure equitable load distribution using dispatch spreadsheets.
- Act as a key contact for pins, pre-advise status, and hazardous materials paperwork.
- Maintain frequent communication with drivers to provide support and address concerns.
- Collaborate across departments including warehouse, sales, and brokerage for operational alignment.
- Manage input and oversight for special accounts with unique dispatch needs.
Reporting and Accountability:
- Maintain and submit daily customer and driver turndown reports following standard operating procedures.
- Track driver attendance and performance; report directly to management and HR.
- Assist with daily yard checks to ensure all equipment is properly accounted for.
Port Coordination:
- Oversee driver activity in and out of port terminals.
- Ensure compliance with port rules, TWIC credentialing, and chassis management.
- Monitor and respond to port congestion or terminal access issues.
Driver Communication & Support:
- Act as the main point of contact for drivers during assigned shifts.
- Provide real-time dispatch guidance to avoid service failures.
- Maintain professional, clear communication to support driver engagement and satisfaction.
System and Documentation Management:
- Enter all load details, updates, and changes into the transportation management system (TMS) in real time.
- Keep accurate records of dispatch activities, delivery documentation, and exceptions.
- Ensure all driver paperwork (e.g., BOLs, logs, receipts) is received, scanned, and filed appropriately.
- Use fleet tracking and dispatch platforms (e.g., PeopleNet, Lynx) for pin creation and real-time status monitoring.
- Ensure documentation meets compliance standards for shipping, safety, and hazardous materials.
Problem Resolution:
- Proactively resolve service disruptions, delays, or equipment breakdowns in coordination with internal teams and customers.
- Collaborate with warehouse, sales, and customer service to address delivery or operational challenges.
- Escalate issues to appropriate leadership or safety personnel as needed.
Compliance and Safety:
- Monitor Hours of Service (HOS) compliance.
- Enforce safety policies and ensure proper handling and transport of freight.
- Partner with safety and HR teams to support compliance and incident resolution.
- Participate in safety meetings and promote a culture of safety across operations.
Miscellaneous Duties:
- Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as directed by the Division Manager.
Skills Required:
- Excellent organizational, time management, and verbal/written communication skills.
- Proficiency in logistics and dispatch software systems.
- Knowledge of industry regulations, safety standards, and transportation best practices.