Job Description

Job Title: Intermodal & Dry Van Dispatcher – Local & Over The Road

Summary:

The Intermodal and Dry Van Dispatcher plays a critical role in daily freight coordination, responsible for managing local and over-the-road operations, dispatching company drivers and owner-operators, and ensuring on-time delivery of loads originating from or bound for port facilities and surrounding areas. This role requires exceptional communication, multitasking skills, and adaptability to a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Reports To: Division Manager

Key Responsibilities

Dispatch Operations:

• Coordinate and assign daily loads to company drivers and owner-operators for intermodal and dry van freight.
• Dispatch local and over-the-road (OTR) freight, ensuring on-time performance.
• Manage real-time updates on dispatch changes, equipment issues, or delays.
• Track driver assignments and ensure equitable load distribution using dispatch spreadsheets.
• Act as a key contact for pins, pre-advise status, and hazardous materials paperwork.
• Maintain frequent communication with drivers to provide support and address concerns.
• Collaborate across departments including warehouse, sales, and brokerage for operational alignment.
• Manage input and oversight for special accounts with unique dispatch needs.

Reporting and Accountability:

• Maintain and submit daily customer and driver turndown reports following standard operating procedures.
• Track driver attendance and performance; report directly to management and HR.
• Assist with daily yard checks to ensure all equipment is properly accounted for.

Port Coordination:

• Oversee driver activity in and out of port terminals.
• Ensure compliance with port rules, TWIC credentialing, and chassis management.
• Monitor and respond to port congestion or terminal access issues.

Driver Communication & Support:

• Act as the main point of contact for drivers during assigned shifts.
• Provide real-time dispatch guidance to avoid service failures.
• Maintain professional, clear communication to support driver engagement and satisfaction.

System and Documentation Management:

• Enter all load details, updates, and changes into the transportation management system (TMS) in real time.
• Keep accurate records of dispatch activities, delivery documentation, and exceptions.
• Ensure all driver paperwork (e.g., BOLs, logs, receipts) is received, scanned, and filed appropriately.
• Use fleet tracking and dispatch platforms (e.g., PeopleNet, Lynx) for pin creation and real-time status monitoring.
• Ensure documentation meets compliance standards for shipping, safety, and hazardous materials.

Problem Resolution:

• Proactively resolve service disruptions, delays, or equipment breakdowns in coordination with internal teams and customers.
• Collaborate with warehouse, sales, and customer service to address delivery or operational challenges.
• Escalate issues to appropriate leadership or safety personnel as needed.

Compliance and Safety:

• Monitor Hours of Service (HOS) compliance.
• Enforce safety policies and ensure proper handling and transport of freight.
• Partner with safety and HR teams to support compliance and incident resolution.
• Participate in safety meetings and promote a culture of safety across operations.

Miscellaneous Duties:

• Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as directed by the Division Manager.

Skills Required:

• Excellent organizational, time management, and verbal/written communication skills.
• Proficiency in logistics and dispatch software systems.
• Knowledge of industry regulations, safety standards, and transportation best practices.

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