Ask Anna – Dispatcher
If you are considering a career as a dispatcher, here’s your chance to ask some important questions. Scroll through the frequently asked questions and click on the ones you are curious about.
Don’t see what you’re wondering about? Send us a question using the form below and we’ll get back to you shortly with an answer.
What role do you play in the daily operations?
I am the master scheduler! My job is to schedule drivers to pickup or deliver loads to customers or vendors. This involves determining the best delivery methods for cargo, evaluating any special needs for each load and ensuring our company is cost effective by coordinating and managing loads so they are efficient.
I am also responsible for tracking the driver’s locations using a computer system. This allows me to monitor the hours of service for each driver, identify errors or violations and determine the availability of equipment.
What are some important skills for a dispatcher?
I think problem solving, decision making, customer service and active listening are important skills for a dispatcher to have.
I am a front-line worker. I sell business services to customers, organize distribution systems and also supervise and direct staff. I am the liaison between the customers, the company and the company drivers so I need to be a very good communicator.
I enjoy my job because it gives me many opportunities to solve puzzles, like planning and coordinating efficient transportation routes, or balancing weight throughout the trucks and trailers. A pro-active approach to dispatching can mean the difference between missed connections, just being delayed, or the load being left sitting on a shipping dock for an extended period of time.
I also need to keep up to date with laws and regulations to ensure that our goods are transported safely and within the legal limits.
Are your systems automated?
The system does a great job helping me get everything done, but in the end, a human still needs to ensure that accurate and sensible plans, paperwork and deliveries are executed.
What education and experience do you need?
I studied Transportation and Logistics at Community College, and started with a transportation company as a Junior Fleet Coordinator. This provided me with the opportunities needed to learn additional dispatching techniques on-the-job. Many of my colleagues did not have formal training and learned on the job.
Should I have experience as a professional driver?
Professional driving experience is very helpful to a person who wants to become a dispatcher, but it is not required. Driving experience gives you insight into the operational side of the job, such as the things that need to happen in order to re-plan for a late load. There are always strict schedules and appointments to be kept in the transportation industry.
Is your job ever boring?
Not at all!
Being a dispatcher is a high paced job, being organized and able to multi task helps me manage the position. There is seldom any down time and you need to be alert and “on the ball” at all times. The good part is that the time goes by quickly so you don’t have time to watch the clock!
How much does a dispatcher make?
Wages start at around $36,000 per year and can progress up to around $50,000. The average is currently $43,000 per year.
Ask your question here and we will get back to you with an answer shortly
