Transport Planner

Position: Subcontractor Transport Planner Contract Type: 9-Month Fixed Term Contract (FTC) Salary: £46,000 per annum Location: Crewe/Nantwich (On-site) Role Overview We are seeking an experienced and proactive Subcontractor Transport Planner to join a fast-paced logistics operation on a 9-month fixed-term contract. In this critical role, you will be responsible for sourcing, managing, and optimising subcontractor haulage capacity to support peak volume demands, specialised lane coverage, and daily distribution requirements. You will serve as the key operational interface between internal transport teams and third-party logistics (3PL) partners, ensuring optimal vehicle utilisation, cost-effective freight placement, and high service delivery standards. Key Responsibilities

• Subcontractor Sourcing & Allocation: Identify, negotiate with, and allocate loads to third-party hauliers and subcontractors to fulfill daily and weekly transport requirements efficiently.
• Capacity Planning: Monitor operational volumes and proactively secure additional sub-contracted vehicle capacity to handle freight spikes, promotional surges, and lane shortfalls.
• Cost & Commercial Management: Ensure sub-contracted rates align with operational budgets and agreed commercial terms while negotiating spot rates where required to maintain cost efficiency.
• Service Level Tracking: Monitor subcontractor performance against key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring on-time delivery (OTIF) and adherence to customer service level agreements (SLAs).
• Communication & Relationship Management: Serve as the primary operational contact for third-party hauliers, resolving day-to-day delivery issues, demurrages, or operational delays swiftly.
• TMS & Administration: Maintain accurate haulage and load records within the Transport Management System (TMS), ensuring precise tracking, POD management, and prompt invoice validation.
• Compliance & Standards: Ensure all sub-contracted transport providers comply with company standards, health and safety regulations, legal requirements, and industry guidelines. Key Qualifications & Experience
• Experience: Proven track record working as a Transport Planner, Traffic Controller, or Subcontractor Logistics Planner within a busy 3PL, haulage, or ambient distribution environment.
• Subcontractor Management: Demonstrated experience negotiating spot rates, sourcing external haulage, and managing third-party transport relationships.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with Transport Management Systems (TMS) and route planning tools (e.g., Microlise, Paragon, Mandata, ORTEC, or proprietary systems).
• Geographical Knowledge: Strong understanding of UK road networks and regional transport hubs.
• Problem-Solving & Agility: Strong commercial acumen with the ability to make rapid decisions under pressure in a fast-changing operational environment.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills with the confidence to negotiate effectively with third-party carriers and internal stakeholders. What We Offer
• Competitive base salary of £46,000 (pro-rata for 9 months)
• Opportunity to work with a leading distribution network
• Dynamic and supportive team environment
• Free on-site parking and employee amenities