Summary

• What Does a Transport Manager Do? (Job Description)
• How to Become a Transport Manager
• Road Transport Manager Career and Salary
• Transport Manager Software by IMPARGO TMS
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Does a Transport Manager Do? (Job Description)

A transport manager oversees road transport operations, ensuring safety, compliance, and cost efficiency. They manage the logistics to keep fleets running smoothly and follow legal requirements.

1. Manage Day-to-Day Transport Tasks

Transport managers handle many tasks, including:

• Planning efficient routes and delivery schedules with suppliers and customers.
• Training supervisors, administrators, and drivers.
• Managing contracts and meeting performance targets.
• Creating reports to track performance.
• Ensuring drivers follow transport rules and arranging vehicle maintenance, MOTs, and tax payments.

Tools like IMPARGO’s HGV route planner and cost calculators simplify these tasks, so transport managers can focus on long-term goals.  
 

2. Ensure Regulatory Compliance for Fleets

Transport managers make sure fleets meet safety and legal rules. This includes checking MOTs, vehicle taxes, and weight or height limits. Specialized tools, like ADR transport management solutions, ensure compliance for hazardous goods.

3. Oversee Driver Responsibilities

Transport managers monitor drivers to ensure:

• Work hours follow legal limits.
• Licenses are valid.
• Working conditions are safe.

IMPARGO’s truck driver mobile app supports communication, GPS tracking, and task management to make this job easier.  
 

4. Optimize Fleet Operations and Routes

Transport managers improve routes, reduce costs, and keep vehicle records updated. 

5. Manage Contracts and Performance

Transport managers handle contracts with suppliers and customers, ensuring obligations are met. They also use reports to track performance and find areas for improvement.

6. Adapt to Different Work Environments

Transport managers work in offices or at client locations. This flexible role allows them to meet operational needs effectively.

Tools like IMPARGO’s transport order management system and fleet management solutions help transport managers streamline their operations and stay efficient.

How to Become a Transport Manager

There are multiple pathways to becoming a transport manager, including:

Option 1: University Degree

Pursue a foundation degree, higher national diploma, or degree in subjects like logistics, supply chain management, or transport management. After graduation, you can apply for graduate transport management trainee schemes. Learn more about university courses and entry requirements.

Option 2: Pursue an Apprenticeship

Start with a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Supply Chain or a Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship in Passenger Transport Operations. Apprenticeships combine practical experience with classroom learning. Check out the guide to apprenticeships.

Option 3: Leverage Work Experience

Begin as a driver, supervisor, or admin assistant. With training and experience, you can progress to a road transport manager role.

Option 4: Direct Application

Apply directly to transport manager jobs if you have prior experience and qualifications in road transport.

Road Transport Manager Career and Salary

The average salary for a transport manager ranges from £23,000 for starters to £55,000 for experienced professionals. Work schedules often include evenings, weekends, or shifts. Key industries include retail, engineering, and passenger transport.

Membership in professional bodies like the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport or United Kingdom Warehousing Association offers training and career development opportunities.

Transport Manager Software by IMPARGO TMS

IMPARGO supports transport managers with solutions tailored to their needs. Choose from these plans:

1. Free Plan

Ideal for freelancers and small companies, offering tools like the Truck Cost Calculator and basic document management.

2. Professional Plan

Designed for scaling operations with features like cost-optimized routing and live traffic integration.

3. Business Plan

Includes advanced features such as Order Management and ERP integration for full digitalization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to become a transport manager?

A Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is mandatory. You can also consider university courses or apprenticeships in logistics or transport management.

Do I need a transport manager for one lorry?

Yes, appointing a transport manager is required for standard national or international licenses. Explore IMPARGO’s fleet management tools.

How does IMPARGO help freelancers?

The Free Plan offers document management, route planning, and cost calculation for freelancers managing up to four operators. Learn more here.

What are the requirements for 2.5-tonne trucks?

Vehicles over 2.5 tonnes used for international transport require compliance with EU regulations. IMPARGO provides specialized tools.

IMPARGO – The perfect TMS platform for transport managers across the UK and EU.