Job Title: Transport Planner
Hours: 10:00am – 19:00pm
Salary: £35,000 per annum
Part of the EFS Group, Horizon Distribution is a proven business offering a vast range of Transport and comprehensive Warehousing solutions.
Due to growth, we are looking for a motivated and proactive Transport Planner to join our experienced and dedicated team at Horizon Distribution, working out of Widnes. In this role, you will play a key part in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of our driver operations.
This is a role with real opportunity to grow within the business, working in a supportive team environment where your input makes a difference.
Key Responsibilities:
Route Planning & Scheduling
* Plan efficient collection and delivery routes for palletised freight.
* Allocate loads to drivers and vehicles to maximise efficiency and minimise costs.
* Adjust plans in real time to account for delays, traffic, or customer changes.
* Plan night trunking resources
Load & Resource Management
* Ensure vehicles are loaded legally, safely, and optimally.
* Make best use of drivers, vehicles, and subcontractors.
* Monitor compliance with drivers' hours and Working Time Directive rules.
Communication & Coordination
* Liaise with drivers, depot staff, customers, and the Pall-Ex hub.
* Provide drivers with clear instructions and support while on the road.
* Handle queries and resolve delivery/collection issues quickly.
Customer Service
* Ensure customer delivery requirements and service levels are met.
* Keep customers updated on delivery progress or any disruptions.
* Deal with customer complaints or delays in a professional manner.
Compliance & Reporting
* Maintain accurate records of vehicle movements, load plans, and costs.
* Ensure adherence to transport legislation, health & safety, and company policies.
* Monitor KPI performance (e.g., on-time deliveries, cost efficiency)
* Manage vehicle maintenance scheduling with onsite garage
* Manage driver infringements where appropriate
* Utilise Samsara to impact driver behaviour
* Ensure all accidents and incidents are recorded in line company policies
* Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement
* React to operational challenges such as vehicle breakdowns, driver shortages, or network delays.
* Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
What We Offer:
* Competitive salary of £35,000 per annum
* 20 days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
* Health & Wellbeing Programme
* On-site parking
* Long-term, stable employment with a supportive, friendly team
About You:
* Strong organisational and planning skills
* Confident communicator, able to engage effectively with drivers and colleagues
* Problem-solving mindset with the ability to make decisions under pressure
* Experience in transport/logistics planning
* Experience in working with and managing drivers
* National CPC (preferred but not essential)
If you're ready to take on a role where you can make an impact and develop your career, we'd love to hear from you.
Please apply via Indeed or contact Horizon Distribution for more information .
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From £35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company car
* Company pension
* Free parking
* Health & wellbeing programme
* On-site parking
Experience:
* Transport Planning: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
* CPC (preferred)
Work Location: In person