Load Planner

Career Guide

A Load Planner builds efficient shipping plans by matching freight with available trucks, routes, and delivery windows. The goal is to move goods on time, at the lowest reasonable cost, while meeting safety and service requirements.

Browse All Roles

Key Responsibilities

Plan daily and weekly loads based on orders, capacity, and delivery commitments
Build truckloads to maximize trailer space and weight limits
Coordinate pickup and delivery schedules with warehouses and carriers
Select carriers or internal fleet options that fit cost and service needs
Review shipment details for accuracy including addresses, timing, and special handling
Track in transit shipments and respond to delays or exceptions
Update transportation systems with load details and status changes
Communicate plans and changes to customer service, warehouse teams, and drivers
Support documentation needs such as bills of lading and appointment confirmations
Monitor key performance measures such as on time delivery and cost per load
Identify recurring issues and recommend process improvements
Follow safety, compliance, and customer requirements when building loads

Top Skills for Success

Communication

Problem Solving

Time Management

Attention to Detail

Customer Focus

Negotiation

Spreadsheet Skills

Transportation Planning

Load Building

Capacity Planning

Route Planning

Cost Awareness

Carrier Management

Warehouse Coordination

Transportation Management System

Freight Documentation

Compliance Awareness

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Senior Load Planner

Transportation Coordinator Dispatch Supervisor Transportation Supervisor

Carrier Relations Specialist

Transition Opportunities

Transportation Analyst

Logistics Manager Transportation Manager Supply Chain Planner Operations Manager

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Transportation Management System ExperienceData AnalysisCost OptimizationException ManagementCarrier Performance ReviewProcess Improvement

Development SuggestionsAsk to own a daily lane or region, then measure on time performance and cost outcomes. Practice building simple reports in spreadsheets, learn core transportation system workflows, and document a repeatable planning process for common shipment types.

Market Intelligence Report

Load Planner is part of the Transportation Operations category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

See the market intelligence report

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 40,000 to 55,000

Mid LevelUSD 55,000 to 75,000

Senior LevelUSD 75,000 to 95,000

Growth Trend

Steady demand. Hiring remains strong in retail distribution, manufacturing, and third party logistics, with increasing focus on cost control, on time performance, and system skills.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

AmazonWalmartTargetFedExUPSC.H. RobinsonXPO LogisticsJ.B. HuntRyderDHL Supply ChainKuehne+NagelSchneider

Industry Sectors

RetailEcommerceManufacturingFood and BeverageConsumer Packaged GoodsAutomotiveThird Party LogisticsFreight CarriersWarehousing and Distribution

Recommended Next Steps

Learn the basics of trailer weight and space limits and apply them consistently

Build a simple weekly scorecard for on time pickup, on time delivery, and cost per load

Gain hands on practice in a Transportation Management System through training or shadowing

Partner with the warehouse team to improve appointment scheduling and reduce missed pickups

Create a standard checklist for load setup accuracy and exception handling

Seek exposure to carrier selection and rate review to strengthen cost control skills