The Transportation Specialist is responsible for coordinating transportation and distribution operations across Bonnie Plants' North and South distribution networks, ensuring safe, efficient, and on-time delivery of products to retail customers throughout the service area.
Under general supervision, this position oversees shipment planning, dispatch operations from distribution hubs, route planning, and transportation execution across both Bonnie's private fleet and third-party logistics (3PL) partners. The Transportation Specialist works closely with Distribution Managers, Station Managers, Drivers, Carriers, and Customers to ensure freight is planned, monitored, and delivered safely and efficiently while maintaining compliance with DOT regulations and company policies.
This role utilizes transportation technology platforms including PCS Transportation Management System (TMS), Samsara Fleet Management, GPS tracking, and track-and-trace tools to optimize transportation performance, improve visibility, and deliver exceptional customer service. The position requires strong problem-solving, communication, and operational decision-making skills in a fast-paced logistics environment.
Key Responsibilities
Transportation Planning & Dispatch
- Dispatch drivers and coordinate outbound shipments from Bonnie Plants distribution hubs across North and South distribution networks.
- Plan, assign, and monitor freight movement to ensure safe, efficient, and on-time deliveries.
- Develop and adjust routes based on customer demand, delivery schedules, equipment availability, weather conditions, traffic patterns, and other operational factors.
- Coordinate transportation activities utilizing both Bonnie's private fleet and approved third-party logistics (3PL) providers.
- Manage shipment exceptions and proactively communicate ETA adjustments to internal and external stakeholders.
Carrier & 3PL Management
- Coordinate daily transportation activities with contract carriers and 3PL partners to ensure service expectations are met.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with transportation providers to support network capacity and service reliability.
- Resolve carrier-related service issues, delivery delays, accessorial charges, and operational exceptions.
- Support carrier onboarding and ongoing performance management initiatives.
Fleet & Equipment Coordination
- Partner with Distribution Managers, Station Managers, Drivers, and Maintenance Teams to coordinate truck and trailer maintenance, including routine service and emergency repairs.
- Monitor trailer, rack, and equipment inventories to minimize delays, detention costs, and service interruptions.
- Support efficient utilization of transportation assets across the distribution network.
Transportation Technology & Visibility
- Utilize PCS TMS, Samsara, GPS tracking, and track-and-trace systems to monitor shipment status, driver activity, equipment utilization, and delivery performance.
- Maintain transportation data accuracy and provide operational visibility to key stakeholders.
- Leverage transportation technology to improve routing efficiency, capacity utilization, service performance, and cost management.
- Become proficient in all transportation systems and continuously identify opportunities for process improvement.
Problem Solving & Customer Service
- Serve as a primary point of contact for transportation-related issues and provide timely solutions to service disruptions.
- Handle emergency and non-emergency transportation calls, including after-hours support as required.
- Analyze transportation challenges and implement corrective actions to minimize service impact and maintain customer satisfaction.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, Hours of Service (HOS) requirements, and company safety programs.
- Monitor driver compliance and support safe operating practices across the transportation network.
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience using Transportation Management Systems (TMS), routing software, GPS fleet tracking, or dispatch platforms.
- Experience with PCS Software, Samsara, or similar transportation technology solutions preferred.
- Knowledge of DOT regulations, Hours of Service requirements, and transportation compliance standards.
- Experience coordinating both private fleet and third-party carrier operations.