Logistics and supply chain
Allcargo Logistics Network Planner Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation
For Network Planner roles at companies like Allcargo Logistics
What the job involves
A Network Planner in logistics and supply chain designs and optimises transportation and distribution networks to move goods efficiently from origin to destination. Day to day, they analyse route data, warehouse locations, carrier performance, and demand forecasts to reduce cost and transit time while maintaining service levels. They work closely with operations, procurement, and analytics teams to model scenarios and recommend network changes.
Role and Technical Knowledge
- 1
What is the difference between a hub-and-spoke network and a point-to-point network in logistics?
Explain that hub-and-spoke consolidates flows through central hubs for cost efficiency and wider reach, while point-to-point offers direct faster service but at higher cost per unit. Mention when each suits different volume and service needs.
- 2
How would you calculate cost per tonne-kilometre for a truck movement?
Cover the formula: total operating cost divided by (weight in tonnes multiplied by distance in kilometres). Mention that costs include fuel, driver, maintenance, tolls, and overheads, and that this metric helps compare modes and routes.
- 3
What factors influence the location of a distribution centre in India?
Discuss proximity to demand centres, transport infrastructure (highways, ports, rail), land cost, labour availability, tax and regulatory incentives, and proximity to suppliers or manufacturing clusters. Give an example like a DC near JNPT for import-heavy flows.
- 4
Explain the concept of milk-run routing in inbound logistics.
Describe how a single vehicle collects goods from multiple suppliers on a planned route to a plant or warehouse, reducing empty runs and freight cost. Mention the need for route sequencing and time windows.
Practical Scenarios
- 5
Your company's primary warehouse is in Delhi and demand is rising in South India. How would you plan the network?
Suggest analysing demand density, transit time, and cost. Consider adding a regional DC in cities like Bengaluru or Chennai, or using a hub in Nagpur for break-bulk. Discuss trade-offs between inventory holding cost and faster delivery.
- 6
A key lane has frequent delays and high freight cost. What steps would you take to improve it?
Start with data: on-time performance, cost per shipment, and root causes like carrier capacity, route congestion, or loading delays. Then propose actions such as renegotiating with carriers, switching mode (road to rail for long haul), or consolidating shipments.
- 7
How would you handle a sudden 20 percent increase in fuel prices affecting your network budget?
Mention short-term levers like route optimisation, load consolidation, and carrier negotiations. Also discuss medium-term actions like shifting some volume to rail or coastal shipping, and using fuel surcharge clauses in contracts.
- 8
You need to reduce overall logistics cost by 10 percent without hurting delivery times. What is your approach?
Outline a structured plan: map current costs, identify high-cost lanes or nodes, benchmark against industry, and pilot changes like dynamic routing or night deliveries. Emphasise measuring impact before scaling.
Behavioural and Situational
- 9
Tell me about a time you had to analyse data to solve a problem. What was the outcome?
Use the STAR method. Focus on the data you used, the method (even if simple Excel), and the measurable result. Show curiosity and attention to detail.
- 10
Describe a situation where you had to coordinate with multiple people to finish a task.
Highlight communication, role clarity, and follow-up. In logistics, coordination with carriers, warehouse staff, and customers is daily, so show you can align different priorities.
- 11
How would you handle a disagreement with a senior colleague about a network plan?
Show respect and evidence-based reasoning. Say you would listen, present data and alternatives, and escalate only if needed. Emphasise that the goal is the best outcome for the company.
- 12
Why do you want to work in network planning in the logistics sector?
Connect your interest in problem-solving, geography, and efficiency to the role. Mention that logistics is the backbone of trade and that you enjoy optimising systems. Avoid generic answers about 'liking challenges'.
HR and Company Fit
- 13
What do you know about our company and the logistics industry in India?
Research the company's services (freight forwarding, CFS, warehousing, etc.) and mention industry trends like GST-driven hub realignment, e-commerce growth, and multimodal logistics parks. Show you understand the sector, not just the company name.
- 14
Are you willing to relocate or travel to warehouse and port locations?
Be honest but positive. Network planners often visit sites. Say you are open to travel and explain how it helps you understand ground realities better.
- 15
How do you prioritise when you have multiple deadlines?
Mention urgency, impact, and dependencies. Give an example from college or an internship where you used a simple method like a to-do list or Eisenhower matrix.
- 16
Where do you see yourself in three years in this role?
Show ambition to grow into a senior planner or network design specialist. Mention learning tools like optimisation software, advanced Excel, or SQL, and contributing to larger network strategy.
Ready to try it for real?
Take a timed test or talk through a mock interview for this role, then see your scores.
This is practice material for Network Planner roles, written with AI. It is not a list of questions Allcargo Logistics or any other company has asked.