Transportation Manager

Role Summary

As Transportation Manager, you oversee the planning, execution, and optimization of transportation operations. You manage carriers, routes, and driver teams to ensure cost-effective, timely, and compliant deliveries. Your role is key to maintaining supply chain fluidity and customer satisfaction.

Required Education, Certifications, and Experience

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or related field.

Certifications:

  • Certified Transportation Professional (CTP)
  • Certified in Logistics Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)
  • DOT Compliance & Safety Certification
  • Fleet Management Certificate (NAFA)
  • Transportation Management Software Certification
  • Project Management Professional (PMP)

Experience:

5 plus years in transportation management.
Experience managing carrier relationships and driver teams.

Core Skills

  • Route optimization
  • Carrier management
  • Driver supervision
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Budget oversight

A Hypothetical Day in the Life of a Transportation Manager

7:00 AM- You start by reviewing fleet and driver status reports, focusing on any overnight issues or delays. A mechanical problem with a critical truck requires you to coordinate repairs and reroute shipments to avoid customer impact.


8:00 AM- You lead a morning briefing with dispatchers and driver supervisors, communicating route assignments, safety reminders, and any regulatory updates. Clear communication helps ensure compliance and operational efficiency.


9:30 AM- You monitor GPS tracking and delivery progress, addressing delays or incidents as they arise. You work closely with drivers and dispatchers to provide solutions and maintain on-time performance.


11:00 AM- You meet with maintenance and safety teams to review vehicle inspections and driver compliance with hours-of-service regulations. Ensuring safety reduces risk and supports regulatory adherence.


1230 PM- Lunch is a quick break often spent analyzing transportation costs and carrier performance data. You identify opportunities for cost savings and service improvements.


200 PM- You conduct performance reviews and coaching sessions with driver supervisors to address issues and reinforce best practices in safety and customer service.


3:30 PM- You coordinate with warehouse and customer service teams to manage changes in delivery priorities and address urgent shipment requests. Flexibility and communication are essential to meeting customer expectations.


5:00 PM- You finalize daily transportation reports and escalate critical issues to senior management. You plan adjustments for the following day’s operations to improve reliability and efficiency.


6:30 PM- You wrap up your day by confirming driver schedules, reviewing compliance documentation, and ensuring communication channels are clear for any overnight incidents. Your role demands proactive management and quick decision-making.