Backhaul Coordinator

Ashley Furniture Industries•Redlands, CA

4d•$25 - $29•Onsite

About The Position

The Backhaul Transportation Coordinator is the linchpin in reducing empty miles and maximizing revenue by optimizing our transportation network and keeping freight moving seamlessly. This role partners with Assistant Fleet Managers to identify available drivers for backhauls, solicits freight from customers and brokers, and uses load boards to find optimal backhaul opportunities. The Backhaul Coordinator ensures system accuracy, negotiates rates, maintains excellent customer service with shippers and brokers, and analyzes lane reports to drive revenue growth. This position is ideal for someone passionate about logistics and transportation who thrives in a fast-paced environment where their efforts directly impact the bottom line.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent required
Experience in transportation, logistics, freight brokerage, or similar field
Familiarity with load boards such as DAT, Internet Truckstop, Truckstop.com, or similar platforms
Strong negotiation and communication skills with ability to build relationships with customers and brokers
Ability to analyze data and identify opportunities for improvement and revenue growth
A proactive mindset and knack for problem-solving in fast-paced environments
Excellent organizational and time management skills with ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
Understanding of transportation industry terminology, pricing, and operations
Customer service orientation with professional phone and email communication skills
Ability to work independently and make sound decisions quickly

Nice To Haves

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field
2+ years of experience in backhaul coordination, freight brokerage, or transportation logistics
Experience with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) or freight management software
Knowledge of DOT regulations, Hours of Service (HOS), and transportation compliance requirements
Understanding of trucking operations, routing, and logistics planning
Experience in the furniture, retail, or distribution industry
Familiarity with geographic regions, freight lanes, and major shipping markets
Advanced Excel skills including data analysis and reporting
Background in rate negotiation and contract management
Understanding of fuel surcharges, accessorial charges, and freight pricing structures

Responsibilities

Partner with Assistant Fleet Managers to identify available drivers for backhaul opportunities and optimize driver utilization
Coordinate driver schedules and availability to maximize backhaul capacity and minimize empty miles
Communicate effectively with drivers regarding load assignments, pickup times, and delivery requirements
Monitor driver Hours of Service (HOS) to ensure compliance with DOT regulations while maximizing backhaul opportunities
Build strong working relationships with drivers and fleet management teams
Solicit daily, weekly, and monthly freight from customers, brokers, and shipping partners to secure backhaul loads
Proactively develop and maintain relationships with customers and freight brokers to create consistent backhaul opportunities
Use load boards including DAT, Internet Truckstop, and other platforms to find optimal backhaul opportunities that align with driver routes
Identify and pursue new freight lanes and opportunities to expand backhaul revenue
Monitor market rates and freight availability to capitalize on profitable opportunities
Use load boards and transportation management systems to match available capacity with freight opportunities
Ensure all load tenders are accurate and properly entered into the system with complete information
Maintain accurate records of all backhaul loads including pickup/delivery times, rates, and customer information
Update systems in real-time to reflect load status, changes, and completion
Ensure data integrity and compliance with documentation requirements
Confirm order numbers, set appointments, and manage vendor systems to ensure smooth pickup and delivery operations
Maintain excellent communication with shippers and brokers about load status, pickup times, and delivery updates
Respond promptly to customer inquiries and resolve issues to maintain strong business relationships
Coordinate with customers and brokers on scheduling, routing, and special requirements
Provide proactive updates on load status and potential delays
Negotiate rates with customers and brokers to maximize profitability while remaining competitive
Ensure negotiated rates are accurately reflected in the system and properly documented
Analyze market rates and trends to inform negotiation strategies
Balance revenue goals with relationship management and long-term customer partnerships
Track rate performance and identify opportunities for rate improvements
Analyze lane reports and backhaul opportunities to drive revenue growth and identify profitable freight lanes
Monitor backhaul performance metrics including revenue per mile, empty mile percentage, and load acceptance rates
Identify trends and patterns in freight availability and pricing to optimize backhaul strategies
Generate reports on backhaul performance and present findings to management
Develop strategies to improve backhaul utilization and revenue contribution
Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and work toward continuous improvement goals
Ensure compliance with all DOT regulations, safety requirements, and company policies
Maintain organized records and documentation for all backhaul transactions
Collaborate with dispatch, operations, and safety teams to ensure seamless coordination
Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance backhaul processes and profitability
Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas for operational improvements