Load Planner

Job Specification: Load Planner Department / Location: Transport, Halifax Reports To: Transport Manager People Responsibility: Drivers and Mates Main Purpose To manage day–to–day transport operations, including driver allocation, route planning and transport administration, ensuring customer service requirements are met efficiently and within budget. Key Responsibilities Allocate work to drivers and mates to maximise vehicle utilisation and workforce efficiency, monitoring performance and taking corrective action where necessary. Ensure drivers and mates follow company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and established working practices. Plan daily delivery routes using Paragon, ensuring the appropriate vehicles are deployed to meet customer requirements while minimising costs. Ensure loads remain within vehicle payload limits and comply with drivers' hours regulations. Ensure drivers and mates receive appropriate inductions and training, maintaining accurate records and identifying further training needs. Ensure vehicles and associated equipment are operated safely and in accordance with current legislation and company policies. Produce transport performance reports and KPIs accurately and on time for internal and external use. Ensure compliance with Health and Safety and fire safety regulations, including the correct use of company uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE). Complete order processing and prepare pick lists, despatch notes and load sheets in accordance with depot procedures. Provide support to warehouse management when required. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) On–time delivery performance. Vehicle fill rates and payload utilisation. Delivery cost per drop. Driver compliance, including drivers' hours and vehicle walk–round checks. Completion of training and up–to–date induction records. Key Working Relationships Internal Transport Manager Warehouse Team Customer Service Team Fleet and Maintenance Team External Customers Hauliers and third–party carriers Paragon system support Qualifications, Skills and Experience Previous experience in transport planning, ideally using Paragon. Working knowledge of drivers' hours regulations and operator licence requirements. Strong IT, organisational and communication skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet daily delivery deadlines. Excellent problem–solving skills and attention to detail. Ability to work effectively with drivers, warehouse teams and other departments. A proactive approach to improving transport efficiency and customer service.