How to Become a Truck Dispatcher

• September 04, 2020
• Madeline S.

Trucks are responsible for moving the majority of freight in the U.S. and Canada. There are many people along the way that help get freight from one point to another, with truck dispatchers being one of the most important. Truck dispatchers are vital to the trucking industry and are in high demand. Here are few tips to starting a career as a trucking dispatcher!

What is a Truck Dispatcher?

Truck dispatchers have many duties and responsibilities, but they are primarily responsible for arranging delivery and pick up of freight. In addition to creating schedules, dispatchers also have to map routes, keep records, manage any issues that arise, generate necessary documents such as invoices, and maintain communication between shippers and carriers.

How to Become a Truck Dispatcher:

Basic Education

Unlike other careers in the trucking industry, dispatcher jobs don’t necessarily require higher education. That means that you don’t need a university or college degree to land a truck dispatcher job. However, most companies won’t consider you unless you have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.

Enroll in a Dispatcher Training Course

While higher education isn’t required, enrolling in a trucking dispatch training course will give you a leg up in starting your career. A training course will give you first-hand experience and provide you with a foundation on the role and industry. AVAAL’s Truck Dispatch Specialist training course will introduce you to concepts such as fleet management, record keeping, freight pricing, safety and compliance, and even teach you how to use dispatch software.

Gain Experience

Having experience in the industry will set you apart from other dispatcher candidates. Truck dispatchers mainly work out of an office, but having experience working in another position in the transportation and shipping industry is very valuable. Dispatchers work with various people in the industry, so understanding all of their roles will give you an edge.

Build Customer Service Skills

A huge part of being a truck dispatcher is working with people. Dispatchers have to communicate and forge relationships with shippers, carriers, brokers, and more. Being able to make a connection and professionally handle customer needs is a big part of the job. Important skills dispatchers need include, staying professional in stressful situations, thinking on your feet, and networking.

Work on Communication and Management Skills

Truck dispatching is a fast-paced job that required strong communication and management skills. Being able to communicate with customers effectively is essential to the job. This includes knowing how to professionally communicate on the phone, in person, and by email. Management is also a huge part of this job. Skills such as time management and organization are vital to the role.

Once you have all the necessary education and skills, all that is left is looking for a truck dispatcher job! This can be done through online searches, job boards, or even using the relationships you forged in the industry. Trucking dispatchers are essential to the transportation industry, meaning your career will be secure.

If you’re looking to launch your career as a dispatcher, enroll in our Truck Dispatcher Specialist training course today! AVAAL training course covers foundational knowledge of the industry, hands-on experience, and practice with industry software.