In the logistics and transportation sector it is of utmost importance that what must reach its destination arrives on time and in the right way, that is to say, that what needs to be moved arrives at the right place at the right time. To meet this objective, there is an essential figure to achieve it: the transport manager. 

In this article we will tell you more about the figure of the transport manager, explaining his characteristics, functions and importance within a company in the logistics and transport sector.

What is a transportation manager?

A transport manager – or also known as a traffic manager, transport manager or transport supervisor – is responsible for managing the distribution service in the supply chain, from the management of human and material resources, both of the company in which he or she works and of other related companies. 

This involves, for example, managing the company’s own vehicles or those of other companies, and ensuring that current regulations are complied with. And, above all, ensuring that the goods arrive at their destination in good condition and on time.

What characteristics should a transport manager have?

The characteristics that a transport manager should have are many, among the main ones are:

• • Knowledge and mastery in distribution and transportation issues, as well as understanding of national and international legislation and regulations in distribution. 
  • Ability to organize the departments of a company, with respect to materials and infrastructures. In addition, he/she must know how to manage multidisciplinary teams. 
  • Communication and interpersonal skills, which implies communicating effectively, being empathetic and practicing patience.
  • Must be organized and have time management skills. 
  • Knowledge of project management, and be familiar with management software or programs.
  • Always be up to date on industry innovations. 
  • Knowledge of technology and software for inventory management, and quick to adapt to them. 
  • Understanding of e-commerce.
  • Negotiation skills.
  • Good analytical and synthesis skills.
  • Marketing and advertising skills and knowledge. 
  • Being able to solve problems or incidents in an agile way. This implies having a good and quick response to change.
  • High sense of responsibility.
  • Physical condition compatible with the position (in case you have to move goods and be in constant physical movement during your working day).

Roles and responsibilities of a transport manager 

As well as the characteristics, the roles and responsibilities of a transportation manager are not few. Here we have highlighted some of them: 

• Analyze, plan and optimize transportation routes. 
• Directing both the personnel (this involves managing and supervising drivers, for example) and the material resources of the transportation area or department (such as coordinating and distributing the company’s or organization’s vehicles, for example). 
• Collect and store all trip information for record keeping. 
• Approve the departure of vehicles to their destination. 
• Manage, supervise, control and maintain the means of transport.
• Ensure compliance with national and international regulations related to transportation and trade.
• Manage the budget and study transportation costs.
• Negotiate rates and schedules.
• Perform tracking, maintenance and analysis reports.
• Evaluate the performance of the transportation department. 

If you need help for your logistics and transportation company in the search for a transportation manager, Kilpatrick can help you with our experienced HR team to find the best talent to fill this important position.