Dispatchers play an important role in the trucking industry. These professionals are responsible for checking stock, arranging shipments, keeping customers informed, ensuring goods are delivered on time and much more. It’s no surprise that juggling so many tasks can be challenging. That’s why today’s trucking companies are looking for well-trained dispatch professionals to fill these roles.
If you’re planning to pursue dispatch training, you will be qualified to work for several types of companies within the trucking industry once you graduate. Your daily responsibilities will vary based on the type of company you choose to work for.
Let’s take a closer look at the typical duties of a trucking dispatcher, as well as two types of freight companies you could work for.
Typical Job Duties of Professionals with Dispatch Training
The main goal of any trucking company is to get freight from point A to point B using the quickest and most efficient route possible. Since things like road work, accidents, weigh stations and the weather can slow truck drivers down, dispatchers are required to consider these factors and help drivers navigate to their destination.
Once you become a dispatcher and begin planning routes, your first task will be to check which drivers are available for a delivery and ensure they have enough time in their hours of service to get the job done. Dispatch school will teach you about the techniques and software programs you can use to check for the quickest routes, road closures, and other conditions that might affect a driver’s trip.
Once trucks are on the road, you will need to communicate with truckers at regular intervals using radio, phone, and other technology. You’ll help them schedule breaks, update their log books, and notify them of any changes in their route. Keeping deliveries smooth will also sometimes involve contacting customers to notify them of changes.
Find Work at a Freight Forwarding Company After Dispatch School
Freight forwarding companies are responsible for storing and managing inventory that needs to be delivered. These companies usually keep stock in a warehouse and use their own fleet of vehicles to transport goods.
If you choose to work for a freight forwarder once you’ve completed your dispatcher training, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside warehouse managers. As a result, you’ll become familiar with some of the key import and export regulations associated with the logistics of transporting goods. You’ll also get the chance to work with the same truckers over time, which will help you form great work relationships.
Work for a Freight Broker Once You’ve Completed Your Dispatcher Courses
Another possibility after graduation is to work for a freight broker. Experts know that the main difference between freight forwarding companies and freight brokerage companies is that brokers do not take possession of any inventory that needs to be transported.
In fact, freight brokers act as the middle-man. This means that they work with various warehouses, companies, and facilities to arrange the transportation of goods for them. Some freight brokerage companies have a fleet of trucks, and others work with contracted independent truckers. This could give you the opportunity to work with truckers who move freight in different parts of the city or country. You’ll also be able to work with customers from a wide variety of industries and learn about different products.
Would you like to pursue one of these exciting career paths?
Check out our dispatcher courses and find out how you can get started today!
