The ups and downs of life as a freelance transport planner

Flexibility is one of the reasons why some transport planners choose to go freelance. But, alongside the freedom, a freelance career has drawbacks too, as Geoff Dudley discovers

Geoff Dudley

29 April 2016

"There is no guarantee of work, and no pay for holidays or if you are ill. You need to keep fit and well. Working on a series of short-term contracts can also mean it is difficult to get recognition for the work you do." - Les Henry

To be a successful transport planning freelancer requires a wide and distinctive range of skills, including a high degree of flexibility, impartiality, diplomacy, self-confidence, and good communication abilities.

Every freelancer has a unique story to tell, but it is not a form of employment that will suit everyone. Peter Mattinson, a director of recruitment consultants the Mattinson Partnership, has wide experience in placing freelance transport contractors, and emphasises that some...