Dispatch SOP

Daily Dispatch Planning

Plan each truck's next load so drivers stay legal, loaded miles are maximised and customers get accurate ETAs.

Scope
All company drivers and dispatched owner-operators, US and Canadian lanes.
Responsible
Dispatcher; Operations Manager (approval of exceptions)
Version
1.0 · not yet reviewed by the academy

Procedure

  1. Review every driver's available driving, on-duty window and cycle hours from the ELD before planning.
  2. Confirm truck and trailer location, equipment type and any maintenance holds.
  3. Search loads that fit hours available, including deadhead to the pickup.
  4. Calculate all-in rate per loaded mile and per total mile (including deadhead) and compare with the target RPM.
  5. Check appointment windows against realistic transit time (about 50 mph average, plus breaks and fuel).
  6. Book the load, then send the driver the full load details: pickup/delivery addresses, references, appointment times, special instructions.
  7. Record the plan in the TMS and set the first check-call reminder.
More Dispatch SOPs
Check Calls and Tracking Updates

Practise it

Apply these procedures in the simulators — dispatch workflow, carrier verification, cross-border and the TMS sandbox.

Open the simulators →