Transport companies have many valuable and useful employees who ensure a continuous chain of deliveries. There are dispatchers among them. Many people think that this is a simple job where you just need to answer questions from customers and truckers. However, in real life, everything looks different. These specialists have a wide range of responsibilities, thanks to which cargo delivery is generally possible. This work requires high responsibility.
But this should not frighten you because dispatch for a trucking company is an exciting job, as they say on this site. In this article, we will tell you more about this profession so that you can decide if it suits you.
What do truck dispatchers do?
These specialists are responsible for communication with customers and truckers, for planning and optimizing the route, for searching for new cargo and potential customers, for solving urgent issues that arise during delivery, for accounting and control over invoices. It is very important for a dispatcher to have communication skills in order to effectively negotiate with various specialists. They are also constantly on the lookout for new cargo to ensure a constant profit for the transport company. For those seeking a robust and eco-friendly vehicle, the electric pickup trucks is the ideal choice.
Also, truck dispatchers can manage the fleet by tracking the work schedules of truckers, the condition of trucks, fuel costs and repairs. You can see that dispatchers have a lot of work, but it can be fascinating. Your every day at this job will not be like the previous ones. If this is what you are looking for, then this profession is exactly for you.
A good truck dispatcher — who is he?
To become a desirable specialist who is appreciated in the workplace and invited to the best transport companies, you need to have some soft skills. For example, you need to be organized and have time management, because there are a lot of work tasks, and time is limited. Do not forget about attention to detail, because one mistake of the dispatcher can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Also, the dispatcher must be a sensitive and understanding person to establish a dark connection with truckers. In general, communication with them can become both a great help and joy for the dispatcher, and a burden. Choose the first option and maintain a good relationship with truckers.
This work also involves stressful and emotional situations in which you need to gather strength and start solving problems quickly.
Is it easy to be a dispatcher?
This is a difficult question. Is it easy to be a trucker or a secretary? Is it challenging to work as a waiter or banker? Each profession has its own difficulties and thematic features, which is why people choose them. Yes, a lot of responsibility and acquired skills are required from the dispatcher. But if you feel the strength and desire in yourself, then the dispatcher’s profession may suit you perfectly.
Advantages of working as a dispatcher
We probably scared you pretty much with the list of duties of these unique specialists. But still, many people choose this job for a reason. What advantages does it have?
1. Working with trucks
If you like these big machines, then you will enjoy the work of the dispatcher. Many retired truckers switch to this profession in order to stay away from the industry but not to be constantly on the road.
2. Money
Do not forget about the most crucial incentive to work. The salary of the dispatcher of gourmet cars is excellent. Up to $60,000 can be received per year. And this is provided that you do not need higher education for this job.
3. Remote work
If you don’t want to spend your life in a stuffy office, then the dispatcher’s job allows you to work directly from home! This is a great plus for those who don’t want to be near their family, do other things in parallel, or even combine several jobs.
4. Active work
Constant calls, solving urgent issues, negotiations, and successful deals — such a dynamic working environment attracts some people. If you like such activities, then the dispatcher’s work is just for you.
How to become a dispatcher?
If you still decide to try yourself in this profession, you need an action plan.
1. Prepare your education documents
As we wrote above, you will only need a high school diploma. However, if you want to work in a large and well-known company, then additional courses may be required there. In any case, you should study the specifics of this profession in more detail before starting work.
2. Learn about the software
Truck dispatchers constantly interact with various software to search for grooms and create routes and documents, etc.
3. Make up a CV and try
We recommend applying for entry-level positions first in order to gain relevant experience and knowledge. Don’t be afraid to try and improve every day to become a sought-after employee.
