Working as a trucking dispatcher can mean long, very focused hours. They are responsible for driver and trip scheduling and all driver communication while they are on the job. This type of communication can involve information about traffic delays, vehicle breakdowns, project delays, or delivery issues.
Truck dispatchers are also responsible for recording transportation expenses like mileage, fuel use, and repairs. They are also expected to keep track of all shipping and delivery details. They plan routes that will ultimately save the driver’s time and the company money.
Lastly, they may ensure the accuracy of completed timesheets, payroll, and other summaries, depending on the size of the company they work with. They can even be responsible for sourcing new drivers or external trucking companies to fulfill ever-increasing project demands.
Responsibilities:
Working as a trucking dispatcher can mean long, very focused hours. They are responsible for driver and trip scheduling and all driver communication while they are on the job. This type of communication can involve information about traffic delays, vehicle breakdowns, project delays, or delivery issues.
Truck dispatchers are also responsible for recording transportation expenses like mileage, fuel use, and repairs. They are also expected to keep track of all shipping and delivery details. They plan routes that will ultimately save the driver’s time and the company money.
Lastly, they may ensure the accuracy of completed timesheets, payroll, and other summaries, depending on the size of the company they work with. They can even be responsible for sourcing new drivers or external trucking companies to fulfill ever-increasing project demands.
Skills Required
Working as a dispatcher is more than showing up and taking a few calls on the radio. A truly excellent trucking dispatcher possesses the following skills and traits:
- Organized
- Focused
- Attention to detail
- Ability to multitask
- Adaptable
- High level of confidence
- Superior communication
- Empathic and compassionate
- Exceptional emotional self-control
As a trucking dispatcher, there is rarely any downtime. A good dispatcher must be able to coordinate trip schedules, manage routes, and handle calls and requests from operators, third-party vendors, and their supervisors. They must make decisions confidently and have the knowledge to support them.
Superior communication skills are essential as a trucking dispatcher. Written and verbal skills are necessary, but the ability to listen with a level of empathy and compassion is also required. The ability to understand exactly what someone needs and act on it — professionally and efficiently — is a skill that makes a dispatcher great.
Working as a trucking dispatcher can mean dealing with highly stressful and emotional situations. The ability to remain calm and act with reason, instead of emotion, is essential to success in this role. At times, dispatches change and can go in a different direction than originally planned. This is why it is important to maintain a level of flexibility and adaptability within the role. Thinking quickly and making good decisions and judgments with little time to plan ahead.
