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What is a Traffic Manager?

Joseph McDevitt • Mar 28, 2023

Traffic Manager Introduction

As the global economy becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of a traffic manager becomes increasingly complex. Traffic managers are responsible for coordinating the movement of goods and materials from one location to another, and must consider a range of factors including cost, lead time, capacity constraints, and regulatory requirements when planning transportation routes.

A traffic manager is responsible for coordinating the movement of goods and materials from one location to another. They play a crucial role in the logistics and supply chain management of a company, particularly for shippers who rely on timely and efficient transportation to get their products to market.

Responsibilities of a Traffic Manager

The responsibilities of a traffic manager can vary depending on the size and nature of the organization they work for, but generally include:

Transportation Scheduling

A traffic manager will use various transportation modes, such as trucks, trains, and ships, to determine the most cost-effective and efficient way to transport goods. They will also consider factors such as lead time, capacity constraints, and regulatory requirements when planning routes.
Negotiating contracts

A traffic manager will work with carriers and freight brokers to secure competitive rates and favorable terms for the transportation of goods. They will also be responsible for managing relationships with carriers and ensuring that they meet the company's service standards.
Managing budgets and costs

A traffic manager will be responsible for managing the budget for transportation and logistics activities, including negotiating rates with carriers and monitoring costs to ensure that they stay within budget.
Monitoring shipments

A traffic manager will use logistics software and other tools to track shipments and ensure that they are delivered on time and in good condition. They will also be responsible for resolving any issues that arise during the transportation process, such as delays or damage to goods.
Regulation Compliance

A traffic manager will need to be familiar with various regulations that apply to the transportation of goods, such as customs and trade laws, and ensure that the company complies with these regulations.

Overall, a traffic manager plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of a shipper's supply chain and is responsible for ensuring that goods are delivered on time and in good condition.

One way that traffic managers can improve efficiency and reduce the workload associated with logistics management is by partnering with a logistics solutions provider. Logistics solutions providers are companies that offer a range of services to help businesses manage their supply chain operations, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution.

Benefits a Traffic Manager realizes from a Logistics Solutions Provider (LSP) Partnership

There are several benefits to partnering with a logistics solutions provider, including:

Access to a wide range of transportation options: Logistics solutions providers often have relationships with a variety of carriers and can offer a range of transportation options, including air, sea, and ground transportation. This can help traffic managers find the most cost-effective and efficient way to move goods.

1. Expertise and Resources

Logistics solutions providers have a team of experts with extensive knowledge and experience in logistics management. They can provide valuable insights and resources to help traffic managers optimize their supply chain operations.
2. Improved Efficiency and Cost Savings

Partnering with a logistics solutions provider can help traffic managers streamline their operations and reduce costs by taking advantage of economies of scale and leveraging the provider's purchasing power. They can offer solutions at scale such as freight invoice audits of all shipments, and data mining across modes for optimization opportunities.
3. Scalability

Logistics solutions providers can help traffic managers scale up or down their operations as needed, providing flexibility to meet changing business needs.

Conclusion

Overall, partnering with a transportation management company can provide a range of benefits to traffic managers, including access to a wide range of transportation options, expertise and resources, improved efficiency and cost savings, and scalability. Most LSP’s like TLI offer TMS access to tap into readily available data as well! Check out a demonstration today!

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TLI Insights

For the latest insights, tips and commentary surrounding the logistics industry, look no further. Shippers will find thoughts from the award-winning team at Translogistics covering everything related to your transportation processes and plans. If you have a question we are readily available at insidesales@tli.email