The dispatcher profession is a fast-growing specialty in the US logistics industry. You can work as a dispatcher not only in the office, but also remotely from anywhere in the world, earning from $2,000 per month. The main task of the truck dispatcher is to find the most profitable cargo for truck drivers to be picked up and delivered to the client. This profession requires good communication skills as it involves interacting with drivers and brokers on a daily basis. Consider the options for future dispatchers and all who wondered how to become a US truck dispatcher?
The main steps on the way to becoming a dispatcher
If you want to try yourself as a dispatcher, then you have two options: work for hire in a transport company or work independently from home. If you are interested in moving up the career ladder, then the first option is ideal for you.
Work from home
This activity, in some cases, allows you to work comfortably from the comfort of your own home, since many organizations hire dispatchers to work remotely.
All you need is basic office equipment: laptop or desktop computer, phone, 1-2 monitors.
Step One – Enroll in a Dispatch Course
Taking such a course can give you significant advantages in this area. Moreover, after training, you will have the opportunity to pass an exam and receive a certificate, which will later help you successfully find a job. Our company conducts training for future dispatchers and everyone who wants to start their journey in the US Transportation industry. You can get acquainted with the training program at this link.
Step two – gaining experience
Often experience is not a necessity in this position, but it certainly will not be superfluous. In this way, you will be able to learn the laws of the country, which determine the load limits and safety regulations.
Most of the time the truck controller is dealing with people and meeting their needs. You will be talking and writing to both brokers and drivers throughout the day. You must be able to clearly articulate information so that the recipient understands you on the first try. If you have experience working with people in different organizations, for example, in a call center or sales, this will be a huge plus for this profession.
Always listen carefully to what drivers and customers have to say. In this case, it is important to be able to read between the lines and understand what a person means. This will allow you to remain as calm as possible and do your job better.
Step three – job search
As tools for finding a job, you can take the main sites or resources of carrier companies. Use queries such as: Truck Dispatcher, Freight Dispatcher, and Transport Dispatcher.
You can also consider working as a truck dispatcher for just one company. You need to contact this organization, then coordinate the loads with trucks that belong only to this company.
Step Four – Learn the Software
Most companies use computer software to help you coordinate loads with trucks to transport them. For effective work, we recommend that you study it as best as possible. You may have to spend extra hours and fiddle a little with it so that in the heat of the day you know exactly what to do and how to do it.
There is no limit to perfection, because self-development is very important in the profession of a cargo dispatcher, just like in any other business.
Step Five – Documentation
Documentation plays a very important role in this industry. To cooperate with clients, you need a contract. We advise you to consult with experienced lawyers who will tell you all the subtleties and nuances, as well as help to foresee all the little things so that the client cannot reduce the final amount of payment or refuse to pay at all.
If you wish, you can start a page or website on the Internet, since additional features will definitely not interfere with you. Activity on your page will allow customers to easily contact you.
Remember that this specialty requires serious effort. You will be dealing with calls and emails on a regular basis. In other words, you must learn to deal with the stress of interacting with a wide variety of people throughout the day. If you work honestly, provide high-quality services and always be aware of all the latest news, you will consistently make good money.
