Route Planner (Temporary)
The Best Connection Recruiting – on behalf of a leading Builders Merchants in Walsall. Temporary: 4-8 weeks.
About the Company
Our client is one of the Midlands' leading suppliers of building, landscaping, civil, and DIY materials.
The Opportunity
The Best Connection is recruiting a Route Planner to join a busy transport team at their Walsall branch on a temporary basis (4-8 weeks). This is a fast‑paced and varied role, where you will play a key part in ensuring the efficiency of transport operations and supporting overall branch performance.
Key Responsibilities
* Coordinate daily delivery schedules for branch vehicles, including HGVs with HIAB cranes
* Liaise with depot managers to ensure efficient inter‑branch planning
* Work closely with yard staff to ensure correct loading of vehicles
* Manage routing to maximise delivery efficiency and vehicle capacity
* Monitor dispatch of all deliveries from the yard
* Organise inter‑branch stock transfers
* Maintain accurate transport paperwork and filing systems
* Assist with driver holiday/absence planning and adjust schedules accordingly
* Balance yard and warehouse workloads to ensure timely vehicle loading
* Handle delivery‑related customer queries and complaints professionally
* Manage vehicle breakdowns and arrange repairs with external providers
* Ensure all transport activities comply with Road Transport Directive, Working Time Directive (WTD), and Drivers' Hours Regulations
* Maintain awareness of VOSA regulations
* Support vehicle defect reporting and repair coordination
* Oversee required inspections (6‑weekly checks, LOLER inspections, etc.)
Key Skills & Experience
* Previous experience in a logistics or route planning environment
* Strong knowledge of the West Midlands geography (Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Dudley – wider regions desirable)
* Excellent organisational and problem‑solving skills
* Ability to work effectively in a busy transport environment
* Strong communication skills with a customer‑focused approach
* Good level of computer literacy, particularly Microsoft Excel
Desirable (but not essential)
* CPC qualification
* Experience with HIAB vehicles
* Knowledge of routing software
* Understanding of building materials and load planning
Personal Qualities
* High levels of energy, drive, and attention to detail
* Ability to prioritise workloads effectively
* Team player with a proactive attitude
* Confident decision‑maker in a fast‑paced environment
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