How to Become a Truck Dispatcher

 Have you ever considered working as a dispatcher for a trucking firm but weren't sure how to get started or what it entails?

Furthermore, what exactly is a dispatcher and what does he or she do? Is there a course for truck dispatchers? Do you need a truck dispatcher license to work as a dispatcher? How do you go about getting a dispatching job with a trucking company? Is it possible to find an independent truck dispatcher? Is this a demanding job?

Oh my, there are so many questions, and I'll do my best to answer them all.

To begin, what exactly is a truck dispatcher? He or she works for a trucking company (a carrier) and makes contact with clients and/or brokers in order to obtain loads. He compiles information such as where the load will pick up, where it will deliver, what type of freight is being hauled, and what time and day it should pick up and deliver.

What is the client willing to spend to have that load picked up and delivered, most importantly? A truck and driver are then “dispatched” to pick up the load by the dispatcher. He provides the driver with all necessary information, including directions and specific instructions. The driver will keep him informed on the load's progress, and the dispatcher will inform the client.

A dispatcher's work entails a lot of time on the phone and can be a difficult one. He or she must maintain track of the whereabouts of the trucks, trailers, and drivers, as well as if the loads are being picked up and/or delivered on schedule. The dispatcher is responsible for notifying the client and assisting the driver in resolving the issue if the load delivery is delayed due to a truck breakdown or other issues. He'll also haggle over the client's payment to see if the job is worth his company's time.

At times, it can be overwhelming.  However, that does not have to be the case! Not if that dispatcher is using a great dispatch software like TMS Digital Dispatch!  TMS Digital Dispatch keeps track of the load information, including the customer/client that will be billed, the pickup and delivery locations, appointment times, the rates, the driver, truck and trailer statuses and locations and so much more!