The Shipping Planner is responsible for planning, coordinating, and scheduling outbound shipments to ensure customer orders are delivered on time while maximizing transportation efficiency and warehouse productivity. This position works closely with Planning, Customer Service, Packaging, Inventory Control, Transportation, and Distribution Centers to prioritize shipments, optimize truck utilization, and maintain shipping schedules that support business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Shipment Planning
- Develop daily and weekly shipping schedules based on customer requirements and production availability.
- Prioritize shipments according to customer requested delivery dates and business priorities.
- Coordinate shipment releases with Packaging, Warehouse, and Transportation teams.
- Monitor shipping backlog and adjust priorities as business conditions change.
- Ensure shipments comply with customer routing guides and transportation requirements.
Transportation Coordination
- Schedule carriers and arrange transportation according to shipping plans.
- Maximize trailer utilization and consolidate shipments whenever possible.
- Coordinate with freight carriers regarding pickup appointments and delivery schedules.
- Resolve transportation issues affecting shipment performance.
- Monitor carrier performance and communicate delays.
Order Management
- Review customer orders for shipping readiness.
- Verify material availability before releasing shipments.
- Coordinate with Planning and Inventory teams to resolve shortages impacting shipments.
- Track open orders and ensure timely shipment execution.
Cross-Functional Coordination
- Work closely with:
- Production Planning
- Purchasing
- Inventory Control
- Packaging
- Warehouse Operations
- Customer Service
- Transportation Providers
- Distribution Centers
- Participate in daily operational meetings to communicate shipping priorities.
SAP / System Management
- Create and manage shipment documents in SAP or ERP systems.