Logistics Planner (In-Person Somerset, NJ)

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title:  Logistics Planner

Department:  National Operations

Reports To:  Sr. Director, Planning

Role Summary

Provide high-level operational and logistical support to Budd Van Lines drivers while they are in the field, ensuring effective communication, accurate documentation, and timely problem resolution throughout the lifecycle of assigned moves.

Role Accountabilities and Responsibilities

•Maintain consistent communication with drivers throughout the day regarding assigned jobs, including dates, CTQs, approvals, and special requirements.

•Review job details to ensure accuracy and completeness prior to dispatch.

•Ensure all required documentation is provided to drivers no later than 24 hours prior to job start, including Job Orders, Estimates, Surveys, and Yembo files.

•Maintain 24-hour on-call availability, as needed.

•Monitor the electronic board/calendar throughout the day for new moves, updates, and changes affecting drivers within the assigned region.

•Monitor key performance indicators (on-time performance, revenue per truck, driver utilization, storage dwell time, etc.).

•Identify trends and recommend corrective actions to improve operational results.

•Assist drivers with problem-solving related to assigned jobs, including service approvals, weight overages, shuttles, parking permits, third-party services, and related issues. Coordinate with interdepartmental staff (Coordination, Service Center, and Planning) as needed.

•Set up “Power of 3” calls as assigned by the Manager of Logistics & Planning.

•Reserve rental equipment for shuttle and overflow shipments, including tractors and long-term rentals (Penske, Budget, Ryder).

•Assist Planning teams with confirming pack, load, and delivery dates.

•Analyze shipment requirements and develop routing recommendations to maximize fleet utilization and profitability.

•Evaluate capacity contains and make recommendations regarding equipment, labor and driver allocation.

•Submit Comdata funding requests for company drivers, labor, lodging, fuel, and other approved expenses.

•Review assigned shipments with drivers on a daily basis.

•Order packing materials from vendors through the purchase order system.

•Confirm that CBC (Certified Background Check) labor is obtained and properly documented by the Dispatch Administrator.

•Interface with General Managers and warehouse staff as needed.

•Maintain open communication with the Coordination Department regarding shipment status and requirements.

•Schedule shipments into and out of storage in coordination with Warehouse Managers and General Managers.

•Update internal systems with driver-provided photos, tare and gross weights, shuttle documentation, and related records.

•Participate in implementation of operational initiatives and technology enhancements.

•Enter detailed notes into internal systems regarding move status, progress, exceptions, and additional requirements.

•Assist in developing and documenting best practices for logistics operations.

•Manage operational priorities during peak periods and service disruptions.

•Monitor GPS systems to verify driver’s location and support the Safety Department in monitoring hours of service.

•Advocate on behalf of drivers for available tonnage when applicable.

•Provide driver coverage support for the Planning Department when needed.

•Manage driver time-off requests.

•Approve operational adjustments within established company guidelines.

•Exercise independent judgment in resolving transportation and logistics issues.

•Evaluate transportation costs and recommend cost-effective solutions.

•Assist in controlling operational costs through effective resource planning.

•Escalate exceptions and provide recommendations to senior leadership regarding operational impacts and solutions.

•Prepare operational reports and analyses for leadership review.

•Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by management. 

Qualifications and Experience

Experience: 2–4 years of household goods (HHG) dispatch, planning, logistics or transportation experience preferred.

Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Computer Skills: Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Access, Word) and database management systems.

Other Skills: Excellent communication skills; self-motivated; highly organized; and extremely detail oriented.

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday (Full Time)

On-site role based in Somerset, NJ

Job descriptions are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute a contract of employment. Employment with the Company remains at will.

The Company reserves the right to modify, add, or remove job duties and responsibilities at any time based on business needs.

Reporting relationships may be adjusted as needed to support operational and organizational requirements.

Employees are expected to perform all assigned duties in accordance with Company performance, quality, and conduct standards.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer.

• Frequent use of hands and fingers for data entry.

• Ability to review detailed financial documents.

• Ability to lift to 15-20 pounds as needed for files or records.

Each role includes essential functions that must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, in accordance with applicable law.

Responsibilities require sound judgment within established Company procedures and guidelines.

Some positions involve access to confidential or sensitive information, which must be handled in accordance with Company policies and applicable standards.

Budd Van Lines is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. We encourage veterans and members of the armed forces to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.