General Haulage Traffic Operator

Job Title: General Haulage Traffic Operator

Location: Southampton

Job Purpose

To effectively plan, coordinate, and manage general haulage transport operations, ensuring deliveries and collections are completed safely, efficiently, and in line with customer requirements and legal compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and allocate daily vehicle routes for general haulage operations
• Ensure cost-effective use of fleet and drivers while maximising vehicle utilisation
• Monitor vehicle and driver activity throughout the day, proactively managing delays or issues
• Communicate with drivers to provide instructions, updates, and support
• Liaise with customers regarding delivery schedules, booking slots, and service updates
• Ensure all deliveries are completed within agreed timeframes and service levels
• Manage and resolve operational issues, including failed deliveries, delays, and damages
• Ensure compliance with driver hours, Working Time Directive, and all transport legislation
• Complete driver debriefs and ensure all paperwork and PODs are returned and accurate
• Coordinate with warehouse teams to ensure correct loading and dispatch of freight
• Maintain accurate records using transport management systems (TMS)
• Assist with planning backloads and reducing empty running
• Support continuous improvement of operational processes

Key Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in a transport/traffic operator role within general haulage
• Strong geographical knowledge of the UK road network
• Good understanding of driver hours and transport compliance
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Experience using transport planning systems (TMS)
• Confident working with drivers, customers, and internal teams

Personal Attributes

• Proactive and able to make decisions quickly
• Strong attention to detail
• Team player with a flexible approach
• Calm under pressure
• Customer-focused mindset