Operations - Sales Estimator

Operations / Sales Estimator- Heavy Haul Transportation

Position Summary

Job Title: Operations Sales Estimator- Heavy Haul Department: Operations / Sales Reports To: Terminal Manager Location: Dayton, Texas (not a hybrid role - office attendance required) Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt Travel: Minimal / Occasional site visits

The Operations Sales Estimator is responsible for evaluating customer freight requests, developing accurate cost and pricing estimates for heavy haul and oversize/overweight (OS/OW) shipments, and supporting the sales team in securing new business. This role bridges operations and sales by combining technical knowledge of permitting, routing, and equipment requirements with strong customer service and pricing acumen to deliver competitive, compliant, and profitable quotes.

Key Responsibilities

Reviews inbound customer inquiries and load specifications (dimensions, weight, origin/destination) to determine equipment needs, permitting requirements, and route feasibility for oversize and overweight shipments.

Prepares detailed, accurate cost estimates and customer quotes, factoring in trucking rates, permits, escorts/pilot cars, fuel surcharges, tolls, and other accessorial costs specific to heavy haul freight.

Collaborates with dispatch, permitting, and operations teams to confirm route surveys, bridge and weight restrictions, and equipment availability before finalizing quotes.

Builds and maintains relationships with new and existing customers, responding promptly to RFQs (requests for quote) and following up on outstanding bids to convert opportunities into booked freight.

Maintains accurate records of quotes, win/loss outcomes, and customer interactions in the company's TMS (transportation management system) or CRM.

Monitors market rates, fuel costs, and permit fee changes across relevant states/provinces to keep pricing models current and competitive.

Works with carriers, owner-operators, and internal fleet resources to confirm capacity and negotiate rates that support profitable margins.

Coordinates with the permitting department on multi-state OS/OW permit routing, pilot car/escort requirements, and any state-specific curfews or restrictions that affect pricing and scheduling.

Supports contract and bid proposal development for government, industrial, and commercial accounts, ensuring compliance with customer specifications and regulatory requirements.

Communicates proactively with customers throughout the quoting and booking process, providing a high level of service consistent with company standards.