What Does a Logistics Dispatcher Do?

Logistics dispatchers are responsible for coordinating the movement of goods and materials through a company’s supply chain. They work with truck drivers, shipping companies, and other third-party logistics providers to ensure that shipments arrive on time and in good condition.

Logistics dispatchers may also be responsible for tracking inventory levels and managing inventory databases. This allows them to identify which items are currently available and which ones need to be ordered from suppliers.

Logistics Dispatcher Job Duties

A logistics dispatcher typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Monitoring shipping conditions such as weather forecasts to ensure safe transport
• Maintaining an up-to-date inventory of all goods being shipped to ensure that freight can be booked efficiently
• Coordinating with shipping companies to arrange pickup and delivery of cargo
• Coordinating with shipping companies to arrange pickup and delivery of cargo
• Communicating with other departments within the company to ensure that shipments are delivered on time
• Communicating with customers or brokers to arrange for pickup of shipments or delivery of goods
• Coordinating shipping activities with customs agencies to ensure that all legal requirements are met
• Monitoring the status of shipments and updating customer accounts with information about delivery status
• Coordinating with vendors to arrange for shipping services such as trucking, rail transport, or ocean freight

Logistics Dispatcher Salary & Outlook

Logistics dispatchers’ salaries vary depending on their level of education and experience, the company size and geographic location.

• Median Annual Salary: $44,500 ($21.39/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $60,500 ($29.09/hour)

The employment of logistics dispatchers is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

Demand for logistics services will continue to increase as companies seek to improve efficiency and reduce costs. In addition, e-commerce will continue to drive demand for logistics services, as more companies offer products and services online and need help with shipping and delivery.

Related: Logistics Dispatcher Interview Questions and Answers

Logistics Dispatcher Job Requirements

There are several qualifications required to obtain a position as a logistics dispatcher. They include:

Education: A minimum of a high school diploma or GED is required for most logistics dispatcher positions. However, some employers may require a bachelor’s degree in logistics, business or a related field. Logistics is a specialized field, and having a degree can help you get your foot in the door and increase your earning potential.

Training & Experience: Most logistics dispatchers receive on-the-job training, which may last for a few weeks to a month. This training may include shadowing a current logistics dispatcher or performing duties under supervision until they are comfortable enough to complete tasks on their own.

Certifications & Licenses: Employers typically want their dispatchers to be certified in the basics of logistics and the transportation field. These professionals can get these certifications through industry organizations or their local community college.

Logistics Dispatcher Skills

Logistics dispatchers need the following skills in order to be successful:

Communication: Dispatchers use written and verbal communication skills to relay messages and information to team members and customers. They also use these skills to communicate with other logistics professionals, such as truck drivers and warehouse managers. Dispatchers use communication skills to relay messages and information to team members and customers. They also use these skills to communicate with other logistics professionals, such as truck drivers and warehouse managers.

Attention to detail: Dispatchers must be able to pay close attention to detail when recording information and relaying messages. They must be able to relay messages accurately and completely so that the message is understood by the intended recipient. Attention to detail is also important when recording information about shipments, as it ensures that the information is accurate and can be used to locate shipments if necessary.

Problem-solving: Dispatchers use problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues that affect the delivery of goods. They may troubleshoot issues with delivery vehicles, such as when a driver is unable to find a location or when a vehicle breaks down. Dispatchers may also use problem-solving skills to find alternative routes for deliveries when roads are closed or when a delivery truck is delayed.

Organization: Dispatchers use organization skills to keep track of multiple shipments, customer information and other logistics data. They use these skills to ensure that the right shipments go to the right places at the right times. Dispatchers use organization skills to track and update customer information, including contact information, shipping information and other details. They also use organization skills to track and update shipments, including tracking numbers, delivery addresses and other details.

Multitasking: Dispatchers often multitask, as they may be responsible for several different tasks at once. For example, they may be responsible for monitoring the status of a delivery, updating a driver on the status of their delivery and updating a customer on the status of their delivery. Dispatchers may also be responsible for monitoring several phone lines at once.

Logistics Dispatcher Work Environment

The work environment for a logistics dispatcher is usually an office setting, although some dispatchers may work from a home office. Dispatchers typically work a regular 40-hour week, although they may be required to work overtime during busy periods or when there is a shortage of staff. Some dispatchers may work shifts, which may include evenings and weekends. The work can be stressful, as dispatchers must be able to handle a large volume of calls and coordinate the activities of a large number of vehicles.

Logistics Dispatcher Trends

Here are three trends influencing how logistics dispatchers work. Logistics dispatchers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Growth of the Online Marketplace

The online marketplace is growing rapidly, and this is having a significant impact on the logistics industry. As more and more businesses move their operations online, the need for logistics dispatchers will increase.

Logistics dispatchers are responsible for coordinating the movement of goods from one location to another. They are essential to the success of any online business, as they are responsible for ensuring that products are delivered on time and in good condition.

As the online marketplace continues to grow, logistics dispatchers will be in high demand. They will need to be able to manage complex supply chains and work with a wide range of partners in order to ensure that customers’ needs are met.

More Automation in Logistics

The trend of automation in logistics is becoming increasingly popular among businesses. This is because automation can help reduce costs and improve efficiency.

As logistic professionals, you should be aware of this trend and prepare yourself to work with automated systems. This includes learning how to use software that automates tasks, as well as understanding the benefits of using such software.

A Greater Focus on Supply Chain Management

As businesses become more globalized, the focus on supply chain management has increased. This is because companies understand that they need to have a strong supply chain in order to keep up with the competition.

Logistics professionals are in a unique position to take advantage of this trend, as they are familiar with the ins and outs of the supply chain and can help businesses optimize it. By doing so, they can help businesses to become more efficient and competitive.

How to Become a Logistics Dispatcher

A logistics dispatcher career can be a great way to get your foot in the door of the transportation industry. As a logistics dispatcher, you’ll be responsible for coordinating the movement of goods and materials within a company’s supply chain. This may include planning routes, arranging deliveries, and communicating with customers and suppliers.

To become a logistics dispatcher, you’ll need to have a strong understanding of logistics processes and procedures. You should also be able to use software programs such as Excel and Word to create reports and documents. It’s also important to have excellent communication skills so that you can effectively communicate with all members of the supply chain team.

Advancement Prospects

Dispatchers may advance to other positions within the organization, such as customer service representative, operations supervisor, or terminal manager. Some dispatchers become independent consultants.

Those with experience and training in computer systems may advance to systems analyst or computer programmer positions. Some dispatchers with business management skills open their own trucking companies.

Logistics Dispatcher Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we move fast and our products are in high demand. That’s why we need a skilled logistics dispatcher to help us keep our operation running smoothly. The ideal candidate will have experience coordinating the movement of goods, managing inventory, and tracking shipments. They will be responsible for communicating with drivers, customers, and vendors to ensure that all shipments are delivered on time and in good condition. They will also be responsible for maintaining accurate records and preparing reports. The most successful candidate will be organized, detail-oriented, and able to work well under pressure.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Schedule and dispatch workers, work crews, equipment, or service vehicles to appropriate locations according to customer requests, specifications, or needs
• Receive and process customer orders or requests for services
• Resolve customer complaints by investigating problems and developing solutions
• Monitor vehicle location data via GPS tracking system to ensure efficient routing
• Keep abreast of changes in the geographical area that could affect routing, such as road construction, traffic accidents, or weather conditions
• Update customers, managers, or other dispatchers on the status of service vehicles or crew members
• Prepare reports on daily operations, such as number of vehicles dispatched, fuel consumption, or hours worked
• Determine if emergency repairs are needed and contact vendors or service providers to make arrangements
• Coordinate with other departments or agencies to obtain approvals or permits as required
• Train new dispatchers on company policies and procedures
• Perform administrative tasks, such as maintaining records or preparing reports
• May also be responsible for hiring, firing, or evaluating employees

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proven experience as a dispatcher or relevant role
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time effectively
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, with aptitude to learn new software and systems

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or higher
• Previous experience working in the transportation or logistics industry
• Working knowledge of dispatching software programs, such as X Dispatch or Roadnet
• Familiarity with DOT regulations
• Bilingual (English/Spanish)