ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Load Planner Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

pca

Load Planner

Grand Rapids, MI

The Load Planner coordinates the efforts to operate a portion of our trucking fleet within a designated area/customer group. Provides customer service and handles day-to-day customer inquiries ...

Meijer Companies Ltd

Load Planner

Lansing, MI · On-site

Ability to re-align driver schedules to facilitate high priority load dispatches while maintaining existing load demands. * Proven organization and multi-tasking skills. * PC skills including ...

Meijer, Inc.

Load Planner

Lansing, MI · On-site

Ability to re-align driver schedules to facilitate high priority load dispatches while maintaining existing load demands. * Proven organization and multi-tasking skills. * PC skills including ...

Zekelman

Load Planner/Builder

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$55K - $63K/yr

About the Role As a Load Planner/Builder at Atlas Tube , a division of Zekelman Industries , you will play a key role in planning and building outbound shipments to ensure efficient, cost-effective ...

Penske

Load Planner (Supply Chain/Logistics)

Dearborn, MI

$27 - $36.75/hr

Load Planners coordinate all processes and functions of freight movement and customer service. Load Planners process customer orders, plan & optimize shipments into loads using Transportation Manager ...

Penske

Load Planner (Supply Chain/Logistics)

Dearborn, MI

$27.25 - $36.75/hr

Load Planners coordinate all processes and functions of freight movement and customer service. Load Planners process customer orders, plan & optimize shipments into loads using Transportation Manager ...

West Side Transport Inc

2nd Shift Driver Manager

Canton, MI · On-site

$44K - $53K/yr

Notifies the Load Planners if a pre-plan won't work, or will no longer work, for a driver as soon as they recognize a conflict with the assigned plan(s). Requests loads from Load Planners in addition ...

DHL

Logistics Planner

Livonia, MI · On-site

Logistics Planner Transportation is a pillar for any supply chain, and at DHL Supply Chain you are ... daily load plan through EFMS, Topex, or TMS system or Red PrairieRoute interactive, expedite ...

DPDHL

Logistics Planner

Livonia, MI · On-site

Logistics Planner Transportation is a pillar for any supply chain, and at DHL Supply Chain you are ... Build and validate (cost, service) daily load plan through EFMS, Topex, or TMS system or Red ...

DPDHL

Logistics Planner

Livonia, MI · On-site

Logistics Planner Transportation is a pillar for any supply chain, and at DHL Supply Chain you are ... Build and validate (cost, service) daily load plan through EFMS, Topex, or TMS system or Red ...

DPDHL

Logistics Planner

Livonia, MI · On-site

Logistics Planner Transportation is a pillar for any supply chain, and at DHL Supply Chain you are ... Build and validate (cost, service) daily load plan through EFMS, Topex, or TMS system or Red ...

DHL

Logistics Planner

Livonia, MI · On-site

Logistics Planner Transportation is a pillar for any supply chain, and at DHL Supply Chain you are ... daily load plan through EFMS, Topex, or TMS system or Red PrairieRoute interactive, expedite ...

DPDHL

Logistics Planner

Livonia, MI · On-site

Logistics Planner Transportation is a pillar for any supply chain, and at DHL Supply Chain you are ... Build and validate (cost, service) daily load plan through EFMS, Topex, or TMS system or Red ...

DHL

Logistics Planner

Livonia, MI · On-site

Logistics Planner Transportation is a pillar for any supply chain, and at DHL Supply Chain you are ... daily load plan through EFMS, Topex, or TMS system or Red PrairieRoute interactive, expedite ...

DHL

Logistics Planner

Livonia, MI · On-site

Logistics Planner Transportation is a pillar for any supply chain, and at DHL Supply Chain you are ... daily load plan through EFMS, Topex, or TMS system or Red PrairieRoute interactive, expedite ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLoad Planner JobsLoad Planner Jobs in Michigan

Load Planner information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do load planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for load planner in Michigan is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a load planner do?

A load planner works to streamline all aspects of the freight transportation process. In this job, you focus on reducing shipping time, expediting routes, and maximizing loads for all types of cargo transport. Your duties in this career include working with both a dispatcher and fleet managers to plan and carry out shipping operations. Educational qualifications could consist of a bachelor’s degree or associate degree in logistics. Some employers accept job experience and skills with logistics software in lieu of a degree.

What does a load planner do?

A Load Planner is responsible for organizing and coordinating the loading of freight onto trucks, trailers, or shipping containers to maximize efficiency and safety. They analyze shipment details, vehicle capacities, and delivery schedules to ensure loads are packed correctly and routes are optimized. Their work helps reduce transportation costs, prevent damage to goods, and ensure compliance with regulations. Load Planners often work closely with drivers, warehouse staff, and logistics managers to keep operations running smoothly.

How does a load planner typically coordinate with drivers and warehouse staff to ensure timely deliveries?

A Load Planner works closely with both drivers and warehouse personnel to create efficient schedules and routes for shipments. They communicate load details, special handling requirements, and timing to drivers, while also collaborating with warehouse teams to confirm cargo readiness and correct loading procedures. This coordination helps prevent delays, maximizes truck utilization, and ensures compliance with safety regulations. Regular check-ins and the use of transportation management systems are common practices to keep everyone aligned and address any issues quickly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a load planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Load Planner, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of logistics or transportation processes, often supported by a relevant degree or industry experience. Proficiency with transportation management systems (TMS), route optimization software, and spreadsheet applications like Excel is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to problem-solve under pressure help Load Planners stand out. These skills ensure efficient, cost-effective, and safe freight movement, directly impacting operational success and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Load Planner vs Freight Coordinator?

AspectLoad PlannerFreight Coordinator
CredentialsLogistics or supply chain certifications often preferredLogistics or transportation certifications common
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, planning routes and schedulesOffice and field, coordinating shipments and deliveries
Industry UsageUsed in transportation, logistics, and supply chain companiesCommon in freight, shipping, and logistics firms
Primary FocusPlanning and optimizing load schedulesManaging shipment coordination and customer communication

While both roles operate within the logistics industry, Load Planners focus on scheduling and optimizing loads, whereas Freight Coordinators handle shipment coordination and customer interactions. Understanding these differences helps companies assign the right responsibilities and professionals for efficient supply chain operations.

More about Load Planner jobs

What are popular job titles related to Load Planner jobs in Michigan?

For Load Planner jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Load Planner jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Load Planner jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Load Planner jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Load Planner job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Load Planner jobs in MI?

For Load Planner jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Load Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Load Planner job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,501 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Load Planner

pca

Grand Rapids, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 121 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Primary Duties:

The Load Planner coordinates the efforts to operate a portion of our trucking fleet within a designated area/customer group.  Provides customer service and handles day-to-day customer inquiries, customer demands and requirements to maintain a steady flow of freight.  Serves as the point of contact for customer shipping requirements, compliance with rates, order entry and preplanning trucks/drivers.  Coordinates with other departments to enhance customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities:

Manages designated customer account and their revenue base while coordinating traffic flows, freight allocations, quoting of rates and delivery/pick-up schedules.

Responsible for accuracy of electronic order entry, effective communication with drivers, and conflict resolution.

Controls the preplanning of trucks/drivers.  Maximizes equipment utilization while ensuring customer shipping requirements are met.

Review and analyze financial reports and take corrective action.

Generate and communicate freight rates.

Assist other load planners/departments/management in the supporting the larger PCA effort to satisfy our customers.

Available all hours via cell phone (company phone provided).

Basic Qualifications:

1+ years of experience in the transportation field; preferably as a dispatcher

Knowledge of transportation industry laws, safety regulations, and general Trucking basics.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree related to transportation or business application.

Experience with TMW dispatch system & Omnitracs satellites.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

PC skills including Excel, Word and Outlook

Strong communication skills

Time management & analytical skills

Negotiation & decision making skills  

What Packaging Corporation Of America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply