Transport scheduler
Level 3 · AdvancedTransport and logistics 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A transport scheduler plans and optimises the movement of vehicles, drivers, and loads to keep a fleet running on time and within budget. You will use scheduling software to build runs, manage driver hours, and adapt plans when things change unexpectedly. This apprenticeship leads to roles in road haulage, bus operations, or any sector that depends on an efficient fleet.
On the job
What you’ll learn
How to build efficient vehicle and driver schedules
Drivers hours rules, working time regulations, and tachograph law
How to use transport management and scheduling software
Route planning and load optimisation principles
How to respond to real-time fleet disruptions
Customer communication and service-level management
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Build daily or weekly driver and vehicle run plans
Check that schedules comply with drivers hours legislation
Re-plan routes when breakdowns or delays occur
Liaise with drivers by phone or radio throughout the day
Update scheduling software with load and route changes
Produce shift reports and flag compliance issues
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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