Dry Van Load Planner

Job Description

Job Description

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*Seeking an experienced Dry Van Load Planner*

Job Summary:

Responsible for strategically planning and coordinating freight across irregular, non-dedicated routes to maximize efficiency, service, and profitability. This role balances driver Hours-of-Service compliance, revenue-per-mile performance, and load availability while securing backhauls through brokerage channels when needed. The Load Planner ensures safe, compliant, and cost-effective operations through proactive monitoring, strong communication, and effective decision-making. Exercises discretion and independent judgement with respect to matters of significance.

Job Duties:

• Strategic Load Planning & Driver Assignment. Plan and assign OTR dry van freight across irregular, non-dedicated routes to maximize tractor utilization and minimize empty miles. Ensure loads are sequenced efficiently while balancing customer requirements, geography, and driver availability.
• Hours-of-Service (HOS) Management & DOT Compliance. Maintain expert-level understanding of DOT Hours of Service, including the 70-hour/8-day clock. Plan loads to keep drivers compliant while maximizing available hours, reducing downtime, and ensuring realistic delivery schedules.
• Profitability & Cost-per-Mile Decision Making. Evaluate load profitability by analyzing revenue per mile, deadhead, fuel impact, and transit time. Make freight decisions based on maximizing margin while maintaining service commitments.
• Brokerage & Backhaul Procurement. Use load boards to broker partnerships securing supplemental freight and backhauls that reduce empty miles and increase revenue. Negotiate competitive rates and ensure service requirements align with company standards.
• Real-Time Monitoring & Problem Resolution. Track active loads, anticipate service risks, and adjust plans in real time due to delays, breakdowns, weather, or customer changes. Provide timely and proactive solutions to keep freight moving efficiently.
• Cross Department communication. Maintain clear, professional communication with drivers, customer service, driver managers, and external partners. Provide updates on schedule changes, driver availability, and exceptions to ensure smooth operations.

Schedule: Monday – Friday 7 AM to 4 PM

Salary: $55,000-$61,000 DOE

Requirements:

• A minimum of 2 years of OTR dry van load planning experience is required, with demonstrated ability to plan freight across irregular or non-dedicated routes.
• Experience with brokerage, load boards, or dispatch operations is preferred.
• Must be able to communicate clearly in English, both verbally and in writing, in a professional and respectful manner.
• Must be knowledgeable of FMCSA Hours-of-Service regulations, including the 70-hour driver clock, and able to make profitability-based planning decisions.
• Must be able to work from the company site as required.