A Terminal Manager in transportation oversees all daily operations of a freight terminal, ensuring efficiency, safety, compliance, and profitability while leading staff and coordinating with internal and external partners 

Role Overview

Terminal Managers are responsible for the end-to-end operation of a transportation facility — such as a freight hub, LTL/TL dispatch center, intermodal ramp, or truck yard — including inbound/outbound freight handling, dock assignments, loading/unloading, storage, and vehicle movements. They ensure service quality, safety, and cost control, and act as the primary point of contact for operational issues and client relations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Management: Direct daily terminal activities, including dock receiving, load planning, dispatch, delivery, and trailer management
• Staff Leadership: Hire, schedule, train, and evaluate dock supervisors, dispatchers, drivers, and other terminal staff; manage performance and discipline
• Safety & Compliance: Enforce DOT, OSHA, and company safety policies; oversee driver hours of service, vehicle maintenance, hazmat handling, and facility safety
• Financial Oversight: Manage terminal P&L, controlling labor, fuel, equipment, and overhead costs while meeting service targets
• Performance Monitoring: Track KPIs such as on-time pickup/delivery, freight accuracy, claims ratio, and cost per hundredweight
• Customer Service: Resolve service issues, handle client inquiries, and maintain positive relationships
• Process Improvement: Develop operational plans, implement procedures, and analyze data to identify efficiency gains 
• Facility & Equipment: Oversee maintenance of terminal buildings, equipment, and vehicles to ensure readiness

Qualifications

• Experience: 5–12+ years in transportation, logistics, or terminal operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in logistics, transportation, supply chain, business administration, or related field preferred 
• Skills: Leadership, operational planning, budget management, safety compliance, customer service, and proficiency in transportation management systems (TMS) and office software 

Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and team management abilities
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks under pressure
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Analytical mindset for performance improvement
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards