Categories   >   TMS Software
Last Reviewed: November 22nd, 2024

Best TMS Software Of 2024

What is TMS Software?

TMS software, or Transportation Management Systems, are crucial tools for businesses that move goods. Their core purpose is to optimize and manage the entire transportation lifecycle, from shipment planning and route optimization to carrier selection and real-time tracking. By automating tasks, improving visibility, and streamlining workflows, TMS tackles logistical challenges like inefficient routes, manual processes, and lack of coordination. This translates into significant benefits: reduced costs, improved delivery times, and enhanced customer satisfaction. Key functionalities include shipment planning, carrier sourcing and management, route optimization, tracking and visibility, and integrated analytics. Emerging features like predictive analytics and AI-powered optimization are further boosting efficiency and competitiveness. While primarily benefiting shippers and logistics providers, TMS also impacts manufacturers, retailers, and any industry reliant on efficient goods movement. Notable limitations include high upfront costs, complex implementation, and potential integration challenges.

What Are The Key Benefits of TMS Software?

  • Cost reduction
  • Improved delivery speed
  • Enhanced visibility & tracking
  • Streamlined workflows
  • Carrier optimization & management
  • Reduced manual processes
  • Data-driven decision making
  • Customer satisfaction increase
  • Competitive advantage
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SelectHub Award Winners - Array

Our Research Analysts evaluated 98 solutions and determined the following solutions are the best TMS Software overall:

Overall

Kuebix Award
Kuebix
Kuebix
Start Price
$0
Usage-Based, Freemium
Analyst Rating
85
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for Kuebix, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Why We Picked Kuebix

Kuebix provides solutions for transportation management with freight intelligence and is widely used by companies of all sizes. As suggested by most user reviews, it has slow and tedious report tracking and lacks information to track inbound shipments. The amount of time it takes to book shipments was another complaint. Despite those issues, it has a lot to offer, including a comprehensive suite of features that generally save a lot of time. Moreover, its easy-to-use UI, affordable cost, and quick and effective customer service make it a strong contender for companies looking for a TMS solution.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to Use: All reviews on usage suggest that it’s highly intuitive, making it easy to understand and use.
  • Customer Service: Support is quick and highly responsive, according to 100% of reviews on the same.
  • Comprehensive Suite: Its ability to serve all supply chain requirements and handles all from setting shipments to accessing reports is helpful, as noted by 100% of reviews on functionality.
  • Saves Time: All users mentioning this aspect agreed that sorting through different quotes and pulling all of them from LTL carriers simultaneously helps save time.
  • Budget-Friendly: All reviews on product cost indicate that the software is extremely cost effective as compared to competitors that offer TMS solutions.
  • Report Tracking: It can be cumbersome and tedious to track reports, as suggested by 85% of reviewers mentioning this feature.
  • Inbound Shipments: The software doesn’t track information for shipments coming inbound, according to all reviews on the topic.
  • Tedious Shipment Bookings: More than 55% of reviews on shipment bookings indicate that it’s tedious and time-consuming to book shipments.

Key Features

  • Rate Negotiation: Dive into shipping options to choose the best service levels and rates for shipments. Compare and view rates for any mode of transportation to increase savings. 
  • Spot Quotes and Services: Request spot quotes for freight volumes to lower freight costs. An expansive and accessible shipping community enables finding the best rates for freight volumes and service levels. 
  • Easy Booking: Book shipments directly through the system. After connecting with a carrier, get shipments booked and ready to go in a few clicks. 
  • Shipment Tracking: Stakeholders can gain full real-time visibility into critical shipments. Customers can see exactly where their product is and when it’s expected to arrive, which can boost customer satisfaction. 
  • Automatic Freight Audit and Pay: Automatically audits carrier invoices against rate quotes that have been approved. Identifies rates that should be disputed by pointing out unexpected fees. When a correct pay amount has been put together, the system can automatically deduct it from an invoice. 
  • Claims Management: Maintain historical claims and organize them to ensure none are passed over by accident. 
  • Carrier Management: Supports and tracks important carrier tasks, schedules and customer or client interactions to help gauge a carrier’s performance. 
SAP Transportation Management Award
SAP Transportation Management
SAP Transportation Management
Start Price
$800,000
Quote-based
Analyst Rating
85
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for SAP Transportation Management, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Why We Picked SAP Transportation Management

Navigating the intricate world of transportation management systems can feel like charting a course through a dense jungle. With a myriad of options available, each boasting unique features and functionalities, selecting the right one for your business can be daunting. One name that consistently emerges from the undergrowth is SAP Transportation Management, a comprehensive solution designed to streamline and optimize transportation operations. But how does it truly fare in the eyes of its users?

SAP Transportation Management receives consistent praise for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for those without prior experience with similar software. The system's ability to seamlessly integrate with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is another highlight, enabling a unified view of logistics and supply chain processes. This integration empowers businesses to break down data silos and achieve greater visibility across their operations. However, some users note that the initial setup and configuration can be complex, often requiring specialized expertise. Additionally, the software's robust capabilities come at a cost, which may pose a challenge for smaller businesses with limited budgets. Despite these drawbacks, SAP Transportation Management stands out for its comprehensive reporting and analytics features, providing businesses with actionable insights to drive informed decision-making and optimize transportation strategies. The software's ability to manage various transportation modes, including road, rail, air, and ocean, further enhances its versatility and appeal.

In conclusion, SAP Transportation Management emerges as a powerful and adaptable solution well-suited for large enterprises with complex transportation needs and the resources to invest in a sophisticated system. Its ability to integrate with existing systems, provide end-to-end visibility, and generate comprehensive reports makes it a valuable asset for businesses seeking to optimize their transportation operations and gain a competitive edge in today's dynamic market. While the initial setup complexity and cost may present challenges for smaller businesses, the long-term benefits and scalability of SAP Transportation Management make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to elevate their transportation management to new heights.

Pros & Cons

  • Improved Visibility: Provides real-time insights into transportation processes, allowing for better decision-making and proactive problem-solving.
  • Enhanced Efficiency: Automates manual tasks, streamlines workflows, and optimizes resource allocation, leading to cost savings and improved productivity.
  • Collaboration: Facilitates seamless collaboration between shippers, carriers, and other stakeholders, fostering stronger relationships and improving communication.
  • Scalability: Adapts to changing business needs and supports growth, ensuring long-term value and flexibility.
  • Complexity: The system's intricate structure and extensive configuration options can present a steep learning curve for new users, potentially leading to implementation challenges and delays.
  • Cost: Implementing and maintaining SAP TM can be expensive, especially for smaller businesses or those with less complex transportation needs. The licensing fees, infrastructure costs, and ongoing support expenses can accumulate quickly.
  • Integration: Integrating SAP TM with existing systems, such as ERP or warehouse management systems, can be a complex and time-consuming process, requiring careful planning and execution to ensure seamless data flow and avoid disruptions to operations.
  • Customization: While SAP TM offers a high degree of customization, tailoring the system to specific business requirements can be challenging and may necessitate specialized expertise or additional development efforts.

Key Features

  • Freight Management: SAP TMS contains a suite of tools that can lower spending on transportation management processes while measuring shipper and trade agreement compliances. 
  • Order Management: Visibility into shipping and order management helps increase customer satisfaction while also cutting costs related to freight management. SAP TMS boosts the efficiency of order and process management while leveraging rules-based routing. 
  • Analytics: Analytics tools allow SAP TMS to provide real-time data-driven data in order to help optimize and expedite planning processes. With tools to improve collaboration with business partners while also lowering data complexity, this solution helps keep an operation competitive. 
  • Transportation Management: Streamlined transportation management processes allow logistics operations to move faster while creating a more responsive supply chain. Dynamically responding transportation processes cut costs even further while boosting efficiency. 
  • Freight Costing: Increase visibility into your transportation costing and invoicing. Automated calculations help cut down on human-based errors and clients can integrate their transportation management data into their billing data. 
  • Planning: Planning tools increase order delivery accuracy and boost on-time deliveries. Plan out the most fuel-efficient transport route and leverage automated planning processes to connect with the perfect carrier. 
MercuryGate Award
MercuryGate
MercuryGate
Start Price
$10,000
Annually
Analyst Rating
83
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for MercuryGate, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Why We Picked MercuryGate

MercuryGate has attracted a range of users, from small businesses to large enterprises, each with unique needs and expectations. The platform's user-friendly interface has consistently been lauded, making it accessible even for those with limited technical expertise. This ease of use translates into tangible efficiency gains, as users report spending less time on administrative tasks and more time focusing on core business activities.

My firsthand experience with the platform involved a complex, multi-leg shipment of industrial pipes from China to a remote rig site in North Dakota. This scenario tested MercuryGate's capabilities across multiple transportation modes, including trucks, ocean freight and rail. The TMS efficiently handled the complexities of this shipment, showcasing its potential for cost savings and operational efficiency.

During execution, the load board provided real-time visibility into all 17 loads involved in the shipment. This centralized information hub allowed me to proactively manage the shipment, identify potential bottlenecks and make informed decisions. The 'next recommended activity' feature was particularly useful in streamlining operations and ensuring timely execution.

Furthermore, MercuryGate's carrier and rate selection capabilities stood out. The platform provided a detailed overview of available carriers and rates, empowering me to make informed decisions based on cost, transit time, carrier reliability and contractual agreements.

In addition to these core functionalities, MercuryGate offers industry-specific features, 3PL support, a control tower for enhanced visibility, exception management for proactive issue resolution, scheduling capabilities, and robust reporting and analytics tools.

Ultimately, MercuryGate is best suited for businesses seeking a reliable and easy-to-use transportation and logistics management solution that can accommodate a wide range of needs. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive features make it an ideal choice for those looking to streamline their operations and improve efficiency without the need for extensive customization.

Pros & Cons

  • Cost Savings: These systems can optimize routing and carrier selection, leading to reduced fuel expenses and improved delivery efficiency, resulting in significant cost savings for businesses.
  • Real-Time Visibility: TMS solutions provide GPS integration and real-time tracking capabilities for monitoring shipments and receiving timely updates, enhancing customer service.
  • Greater Efficiency: A TMS can automate load planning, shipment tracking, and documentation management, reducing manual work and errors to speed up delivery times and improve operational efficiency.
  • High Implementation Costs: Buying and implementing a TMS can be costly, including expenses for software and hardware and potential disruptions during the shift from legacy systems.
  • Complex Implementation Process: Poor planning or lack of standardization can lead to failed performances. If the chosen TMS doesn’t align with the company’s needs, it can create further inefficiencies.
  • Limited Flexibility: Some TMS solutions may have limitations in terms of customization and flexibility, making it difficult to adapt to specific business needs or changes in the market.

Key Features

  • 3PL Support: MercuryGate, while suitable for most companies, includes functionalities to help 3PL providers run the operations they are in charge of. Manage multiple transportation methods for multiple clients with a suite of 3PL-enabled tools. It scores 100 in our analyst data for integrating with freight broker solutions such as Loadsmart and FreightFriend. The same impressive score expands to its integration with logistics solutions like FedEx and UPS.
  • MercuryGate Control Tower: The control tower's map-view interface offers a complete overview of all shipments in transit. It helps users identify bottlenecks or delays and take corrective actions promptly. The control tower improves situational awareness and operational responsiveness.
  • Order Management: MercuryGate's TMS simplifies order management with automated order entry, a shipping cart for item selection and electronic generation of all shipping documents, including invoices and bills of lading. Rated a score of 100, its features let you access agreement details, plan loads by weight or delivery dates, and drill into vendor shipment progress.
  • Exception Management: The system highlights important deviations from routine operations, such as delays and unexpected costs, enabling quick resolution to maintain efficiency and service levels. Instant notifications ensure all relevant parties are aware and can collaborate on solutions, reducing misunderstandings and maintaining alignment across the logistics network.
  • Carrier Rate Management: This module helps you compare freight rates and services from different carriers to make cost-effective shipping decisions while maintaining service levels. Use performance scorecards that score a perfect 100 in our data to evaluate carriers based on criteria such as timeliness, compliance and responsiveness.
  • Reporting and Analytics: The platform offers customizable reports that create insights specific to operational requirements, enabling targeted analysis and strategic planning. The financial and performance analysis reports that score 100 in our analyst data offer in-depth breakdowns of costs and operational metrics.
Oracle Transportation Management Award
Oracle Transportation Management
Oracle Transportation Management
Start Price
$600
Monthly
Analyst Rating
78
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for Oracle Transportation Management, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Why We Picked Oracle Transportation Management

Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) is a powerful TMS solution with a comprehensive set of features, but it's not without its drawbacks.

One of the most common complaints from users is the complex user interface (UI). Many users find the UI to be difficult to navigate and learn, which can lead to frustration and inefficiency. For example, one user commented, "The UI is so clunky and outdated. It takes me forever to find the information I need." This can be a major drawback for companies that need a user-friendly system that can be easily adopted by their employees.

Another common complaint is the high cost of ownership. OTM is a relatively expensive product, and the licensing fees and ongoing maintenance costs can be a significant burden for small and medium-sized businesses. One user said, "The cost of OTM is just too high. We were looking for a more affordable solution." This is especially true when compared to other TMS solutions on the market, such as SAP Transportation Management and JDA Transportation Management.

However, despite these drawbacks, OTM also has a number of strengths. One of the biggest strengths is its comprehensiveness. OTM offers a wide range of features and functionality, which can be a major advantage for companies with complex transportation needs. One user said, "OTM is a very powerful tool. It has all the features we need to manage our transportation operations efficiently." This is especially true when compared to some of the more basic TMS solutions on the market.

Another strength of OTM is its scalability. OTM can be easily scaled to accommodate the needs of growing businesses. This is important for companies that expect their transportation needs to increase over time. One user said, "OTM is very scalable. We've been able to easily add users and functionality as our business has grown." This is not as true for some of the smaller TMS solutions on the market, which may not be able to accommodate the needs of larger businesses.

Overall, OTM is a powerful and comprehensive TMS solution that can be a good fit for companies with complex transportation needs. However, the high cost of ownership and the complex UI may be drawbacks for some companies.

Pros & Cons

  • Improved Visibility: Gain real-time insights into your entire transportation network, from shipment status to carrier performance.
  • Enhanced Efficiency: Automate routine tasks, optimize routes and modes, reduce costs, and improve resource utilization.
  • Increased Collaboration: Share data and insights with partners to improve communication, coordination, and decision-making.
  • Reduced Risk: Proactively identify and mitigate potential disruptions, ensuring on-time deliveries and minimizing the impact of unexpected events.
  • Scalability: Adapt to changing business needs and grow your operations with ease, accommodating increasing volumes and expanding global reach.
  • Limited Visibility: Difficulty tracking shipments and inventory across the entire supply chain.
  • Complex User Interface: Steep learning curve and cumbersome interface make it difficult for users to navigate and find the information they need.
  • Customization Challenges: Limited ability to customize the system to meet specific business needs.
  • Integration Issues: Difficulty integrating with other enterprise systems.
  • High Cost of Ownership: Expensive licensing fees and ongoing maintenance costs.

Key Features

  • Carrier Sourcing: Helps plan and execute shipments to domestic or international locations. Optimizes storage in shipping containers, streamlines order consolidation and boosts overarching transportation network efficiency. 
  • Fleet Management: Streamlines fleet, driver and trailer management. Handle disputes, optimize contracted carrier rates and improve fleet resource visibility. 
  • Operational Planning: Leverage algorithms and optimization engines to optimize shipments based on variables, including cost and asset utilization. Maintains organized transportation flow with support for complex multi-stop consolidation, pooling and cross-docking. 
  • Transportation Intelligence: Customize real-time dashboards and leverage data stored within the system. Transforms transportation data into valuable insights to predict future inefficiencies and act proactively. 
  • Payment, Billing and Claims: Reduces process time and prevents errors associated with billing through automated freight payments. Ensures clients pay and get billed accurately for the services provided to them. 
  • Rate Management: Access a rating engine and global repository of service providers and relevant services in one place. Streamlines rate management with dedicated support for ocean, rail, air, parcel, LTL, intermodal and truckload shipments. 
  • Order Management: Integrates with purchasing, external order management and warehousing to manage transportation demand-induced operations. Share and offer tools to external parties and the supply chain, including suppliers, partners, clients and customers. 
  • Visibility and Events Handling: Proactively manage order lifecycle and shipment with automated milestone tracking and monitoring. Automatically accelerate dispatches at times of significant delays in pick-up confirmations. Receive live status updates from dispatch parties in multiple formats on tablets and mobile devices. 
  • Booking and Tendering: Utilize several communication channels, including XML, mobile device, web and email. Share dispatch plans and workflows and handle service provider texts in real time. Offers automated support to manage several tender processes such as broadcast and sequential tendering. 
  • Reporting and E-Documents: Create insightful reports and e-documents for crucial business aspects, including commercial invoice, BOL, lane-based carrier performance, projected late orders, packing list and cost savings. 
  • Forwarding and Brokerage: Automate freight forwarding operations and brokerage workflows to improve and expedite processes. Offers end-to-end support for several functions such as console and job management and quoting. 
  • Integrations: Integrates with Oracle Cloud SCM apps and Oracle EBS (E-Business Suite), supporting and synchronizing shipment information with sales orders. Templates consist of predefined workflows, including shipping and order compliance, export documentation, order planning and processing and transportation. 
Uber Freight
Uber Freight
Analyst Rating
74
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for Uber Freight, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Why We Picked Uber Freight

Uber Freight has established itself as a prominent player in the logistics software arena, offering a platform that streamlines freight operations for both shippers and carriers. User feedback over the past year paints a picture of a service with clear strengths and weaknesses. Many users commend the platform's intuitive interface and its ability to simplify tasks such as rate shopping, booking, tracking, and payment. This ease of use translates into significant time and cost savings, a crucial factor for businesses operating in the fast-paced world of logistics. Additionally, Uber Freight's dynamic pricing model, which adjusts rates based on real-time market conditions, has been praised for its transparency and flexibility, particularly during periods of high demand or market volatility.

However, some users have expressed concerns regarding the platform's limitations. Certain features commonly found in competing logistics software, such as advanced reporting and analytics tools, are reportedly absent from Uber Freight. These limitations can hinder businesses that require in-depth data analysis for strategic decision-making. Additionally, there have been reports of occasional reliability issues, such as delays in load matching or inaccurate tracking information.

In conclusion, Uber Freight appears to be an ideal solution for small to medium-sized businesses seeking a user-friendly and cost-effective platform to manage their freight operations. Its intuitive interface and dynamic pricing model offer a compelling value proposition. However, larger enterprises or those with complex logistical needs may find the platform's current feature set somewhat restrictive. As with any technology solution, it's recommended to carefully evaluate your specific requirements and compare available options before making a decision.

Pros & Cons

  • Transparent Pricing: Easily compare rates from different carriers without needing to negotiate, enabling more efficient budgeting and cost management.
  • Streamlined Booking: Book shipments with just a few clicks, saving time and effort compared to traditional methods.
  • Real-Time Tracking: Monitor the status and location of shipments in real-time, providing better visibility and control over the supply chain.
  • Wide Carrier Network: Access a large network of reliable carriers, increasing the chances of finding the right fit for specific shipping needs.
  • Limited Customer Support: Uber Freight's customer support options are limited, often leaving users feeling frustrated and unheard when issues arise. The lack of readily available assistance can be particularly challenging for time-sensitive logistics operations.
  • Pricing Transparency: The platform's bidding system and lack of upfront pricing details can make it difficult for carriers to accurately predict their earnings and for shippers to effectively budget for transportation costs. This opacity can lead to uncertainty and potential disputes over final charges.
  • Technological Glitches: Users frequently report encountering technical issues and glitches within the Uber Freight app, which can disrupt operations and cause delays. These technological hiccups can range from app crashes to inaccurate location tracking, hindering overall efficiency.

Key Features

  • TMS and Advanced Technology: Assists with planning, execution, settlement and other key aspects within TMS. Provides performance optimization and management with analytic capabilities for all modes such as parcel, LTL truckload and truckload. Features include: 
    • Global control tower
    • Service prediction
    • Real-time visibility
    • Freight allocation module
    • Optimize prime product for freight optimization
    • Network services
    • Business intelligence and advanced data analytics
  • Global Transportation Management: Includes features for carrier management, freight claims, audits and payment services. Provides network collaboration with clients and business process outsourcing as well. These capabilities are available across Europe and North America. 
  •  Platform Services: Comprised of three toolkits: 
    • Data Insights: Provides detailed insights for market intelligence and benchmarks. Analyze service and spend metrics through specialized reporting and benchmarking tools. 
    • Command Center: Facilitates end-to-end visibility and real-time tracking with event monitoring and service prediction capabilities for shippers within supply chain operations. 
    • Marketplace: Includes several features for LTL consolidation, private and dedicated fleet optimization, cross docks, and continuous movement, within a single collaboration platform. 
  • Global Trade and Customs:  
    • Ocean and Air: Facilitates and monitors ocean and air shipments through a global control tower toolkit, with data integration, pricing and routing capabilities. 
    • NVOCC: Provides a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) with Federal Maritime Commission Requirement compliance. Leverage the benefit of a contracted carrier base to negotiate the best carrier prices with rail, ocean and air liners. 
    • Cross-Border Logistics: Offers multi-modal cross-border logistic capabilities for freight management and shipment crossing the borders across Mexico and Canada. Access entry ports, personalized customer support services and ensure legal compliance using the tools. 
    • Custom Brokerage and Compliance: Leverage specialized consultants, including customs brokers and logistics experts, for analysis of procedures and goods, as well as special attorneys. Assists with simplifying all global trade operations within Mexico, Canada and the U.S. 
    • Cross Dock and Transload Services: Consolidates goods for direct shipment to the end customer to avoid unnecessary expenses and delays. Provides product customization features including, kitting and labeling as well as product position within the U.S, Canada, Mexico or even overseas. 
  • Capacity Services: Access strategic intermodal and truck brokerage features for all supply chain modes across Mexico, Canada and the U.S. Includes drayage, expedited and over-dimensional freight, LTL and consolidations, parcel and various other truckload services. 
  • Engineering and Consulting: Provides features for asset management, supply chain management, mode and carrier optimization, sourcing and procurement, network designing and dedicated assessments for the entire fleet. 
Manhattan TMS
Manhattan TMS
Analyst Rating
72
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for Manhattan TMS, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Why We Picked Manhattan TMS

Navigating the labyrinth of Transportation Management Systems (TMS) can feel overwhelming, but Manhattan TMS emerges as a compelling contender, offering a robust suite of features designed to streamline transportation and logistics operations. User feedback from the past year paints a picture of a solution celebrated for its ease of use and comprehensive functionality, yet shadowed by concerns regarding its cost and perceived rigidity.

Manhattan TMS distinguishes itself through its intuitive interface and extensive capabilities encompassing planning, execution, and tracking. The software's integration with other Manhattan Associates solutions further enhances its appeal, creating a unified ecosystem for managing various aspects of the supply chain. However, the platform's premium pricing and potential lack of flexibility have drawn criticism from some users, particularly those seeking more customizable solutions. These factors are crucial considerations for businesses evaluating TMS options, as they directly impact the software's affordability and adaptability to unique operational requirements. Ultimately, Manhattan TMS appears well-suited for larger enterprises with complex transportation needs and the budget to invest in a top-tier solution. Its comprehensive feature set and integration capabilities can empower these organizations to optimize their transportation networks and achieve significant efficiency gains.

Pros & Cons

  • Ease of Use: Users frequently praise the platform's intuitive design and user-friendly interface, highlighting that it simplifies complex tasks such as shipment tracking and carrier management.
  • Comprehensive Functionality: Manhattan TMS offers a wide range of features, covering various aspects of transportation management, from procurement and planning to execution and settlement, which caters to diverse business needs.
  • Visibility and Control: The platform provides real-time visibility into shipment status and transportation costs, empowering users with greater control over their supply chain operations and facilitating proactive decision-making.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: Manhattan TMS is designed to accommodate businesses of all sizes and can be easily scaled to meet evolving requirements, making it a suitable solution for growing companies.
  • Integration Capabilities: The platform seamlessly integrates with other enterprise systems, such as ERP and WMS, enabling efficient data exchange and streamlined workflows.
  • Limited Customization: The system's rigidity can pose challenges for businesses with unique workflows or industry-specific requirements that necessitate a high degree of customization.
  • Learning Curve: Manhattan TMS presents a steep learning curve due to its intricate features and functionalities. Users frequently report difficulties in navigating the system and effectively utilizing its capabilities without comprehensive training.
  • Cost: Implementing and maintaining Manhattan TMS can be expensive, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. The licensing fees, implementation costs, and ongoing support expenses can strain budgets.
  • Integration Challenges: Integrating Manhattan TMS with existing enterprise systems, such as warehouse management systems (WMS) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, can be complex and time-consuming.

Key Features

  • Smart Transportation Modeling: It empowers users with solutions that help implement important changes to business models while observing their impacts. 
  • Transportation Procurement: The system supports logistics and enables users to source contracts, manage bids and automate procurement, streamlining the bidding process. 
  • Fleet Management: Manhattan TMS boosts fleet efficiency with features focused on safety and compliance. It also leverages machine learning and analytics to support better decision making. 
  • Carrier Management: It provides a comprehensive set of solutions that help maximize driver and customer satisfaction while ensuring that asset utilization and operational costs remain low. 
  • Audit, Bills and Claims: This tool helps maximize savings by transforming automated sources and varied data manuals into one single freight invoice database. 
  • Shipping Planning and Execution: Manhattan Associates transportation management suite offers robust, connectable and scalable solutions to help plan, optimize and execute operations. 
  • Driver Support: This software suite offers maximum support to fleet drivers to help them with all kinds of communication, including dispatch. 
  • Load Analyzer: The load analyzer function helps users analyze and accordingly balance delivery loads across multiple shifts, resources and fleets throughout the entire transport and supply chain. 
  • Invoice Management: It enables fleet owners and clients to manage all invoices and their reconciliation through telemechanics or by a carrier portal. 
  • Customer Training: Training is offered to new and existing customers in a structured learning environment. This enables them to gather knowledge about configuration, solution use, system administration and implementation. 
Luminate Logistics
Luminate Logistics
Analyst Rating
68
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for Luminate Logistics, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Why We Picked Luminate Logistics

Luminate Logistics, a brainchild of Blue Yonder, has carved its niche in the realm of transportation and logistics management. Reviews suggest that users value its user-friendly interface, adaptability to various operational scales, and ability to expand alongside business growth. The platform's real-time shipment tracking and adjustment capabilities empower businesses to optimize their operations and enhance efficiency. These features are particularly beneficial for teams lacking extensive technical expertise, as they simplify complex logistics processes.

Cost reduction is another noteworthy benefit highlighted by users, with some reporting savings of up to 15%. This is achieved through improved operational visibility, enabling better resource allocation and streamlined processes. Furthermore, Luminate Logistics facilitates enhanced customer service by providing real-time insights into operations, allowing businesses to proactively address potential issues and keep customers informed. The platform's comprehensive suite of features, encompassing transportation, warehouse, and fleet management, positions it as a versatile solution catering to diverse logistical needs.

Luminate Logistics appears to be an ideal choice for businesses seeking a user-friendly, scalable, and cost-effective solution to optimize their transportation and logistics operations. Its ability to provide real-time visibility and control over operations makes it particularly well-suited for companies aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate customer service.

Pros & Cons

  • Streamlined Operations: The platform offers a centralized hub for managing transportation activities, which helps to improve efficiency and reduce manual tasks.
  • Enhanced Visibility: Real-time tracking and tracing capabilities provide users with up-to-date information on shipment status and location, enabling better decision-making and proactive issue resolution.
  • Cost Optimization: The system's analytics and reporting tools help identify areas for cost savings, such as optimizing routes and carrier selection, leading to reduced transportation expenses.
  • Improved Collaboration: Luminate Logistics facilitates seamless communication and collaboration among shippers, carriers, and other stakeholders, fostering stronger relationships and a more cohesive supply chain network.
  • Limited Functionality: Luminate Logistics may not be suitable for businesses with complex transportation management needs due to its limited features and customization options.
  • Usability Issues: The user interface can be challenging to navigate, especially for new users, leading to a steep learning curve and potential frustration.
  • Customer Support: Some users have reported difficulties reaching customer support or experiencing slow response times, which can be problematic when urgent issues arise.

Key Features

  • Demand Planning: Leverage statistical and ML tools to sense and forecast demand. Facilitates calculation of demand projections, including results and risk. 
  • Supply Planning: Offers data insights to plan right inventory levels throughout the distribution network. Get live visibility across delivery and supply networks and adjust capacity from anywhere. 
  • Inventory: Create and manage granular service segments of items, channels and marketplace. Enables clients to reduce inventory levels up to 55%. Offers strategic planning tools to align inventory in omnichannel business environments. 
  • Merchandise Financial Planning: Utilize omnichannel in-depth analysis and guidelines for financial planning to boost profitability and productivity. 
  • Network Design: Completely model supply chain networks from from raw materials to order fulfillment. Offers data-rich graphics and reports to analyze what-if scenarios and potential opportunities. 
PCS
PCS
Start Price
$410
Per User, Monthly
Analyst Rating
68
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for PCS, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Deployment
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Platform
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Why We Picked PCS

PCS software, designed to streamline transportation management, has elicited a range of responses from users over the past year. While some appreciate its comprehensive features and robust functionality, others point out areas where it falls short of expectations. PCS offers a wide array of tools for managing transportation operations, including dispatch, routing, tracking, and billing. This extensive feature set is a significant strength, as it allows businesses to handle various tasks within a single platform, eliminating the need for multiple software solutions. Users have particularly praised the software's ability to optimize routes and track shipments in real-time, leading to improved efficiency and cost savings.

However, PCS has also received criticism for its complex interface and steep learning curve. Some users find the software challenging to navigate and require extensive training to utilize its full potential. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the software's customer support, with some users reporting slow response times and difficulty resolving issues. These drawbacks can hinder user experience and limit the software's effectiveness, especially for smaller businesses with limited resources.

In comparison to similar products, PCS stands out due to its comprehensive feature set and focus on automation. The software automates many manual tasks, such as dispatching and billing, freeing up time for transportation managers to focus on other critical aspects of their operations. This automation capability is a significant advantage for larger businesses with high shipment volumes. However, the software's complexity may make it less suitable for smaller businesses or those with simpler transportation needs.

Overall, PCS is a powerful transportation management software that offers a wide range of features and automation capabilities. Its strengths lie in its ability to optimize routes, track shipments, and automate tasks, leading to improved efficiency and cost savings. However, its complex interface and steep learning curve may pose challenges for some users. PCS is best suited for larger businesses with complex transportation needs and the resources to invest in training and support. Smaller businesses or those with simpler requirements may find more user-friendly and affordable options better suited to their needs. It's important to note that software capabilities and user experiences can evolve, so it's recommended to check for the latest reviews and updates before making a decision.

Pros & Cons

  • Streamlined Workflows: Users appreciate the intuitive design and user-friendly interface, which simplifies complex tasks such as dispatching, route optimization, and driver management. The system's automation capabilities further enhance efficiency by reducing manual data entry and streamlining processes.
  • Enhanced Visibility: Real-time tracking and visibility tools empower users to monitor shipments, track driver progress, and proactively address any potential issues. This level of transparency fosters better communication and collaboration between dispatchers, drivers, and customers.
  • Improved Customer Service: Features such as automated notifications and real-time tracking updates keep customers informed about their shipments, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty. The system's ability to optimize routes and reduce delivery times further enhances the customer experience.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Robust reporting and analytics tools provide users with valuable insights into key performance indicators (KPIs) such as fuel consumption, driver performance, and on-time delivery rates. These data-driven insights enable users to identify areas for improvement and make informed business decisions.
  • Limited Functionality: Users have expressed frustration with PCS's inability to handle complex shipment scenarios, such as multi-stop truckloads or intricate rating structures. This limitation can hinder operational efficiency for businesses with diverse transportation needs.
  • Customization Challenges: PCS may present difficulties when tailoring the system to specific workflows or integrating with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This lack of flexibility can impede seamless data exchange and process automation.
  • Usability Concerns: The user interface and overall user experience of PCS have been cited as areas for improvement. Navigating the system and accessing essential information efficiently can pose challenges for users, impacting productivity and adoption rates.

Key Features

  • Graphical Scheduling: Schedule and dispatch carriers graphically and improve planning by making better assignments and reducing deadhead miles. 
  • Carrier Matching: Receive broadcaster freight orders and submit delivery documents electronically with invoices. 
  • Mobile Express: Communicate effortlessly through mobile express and save time using integrated web services. 
  • Carrier Address Book: Gain new job assignments with leading high-volume shippers by adding contact details to a searchable directory of on-platform carriers. 
  • Accounting: Integrate the accounting system with dispatching to improve efficiency. Analyze profits by the mile, calculator driver settlements, scan bills of lading and conduct freight audits. 
    • Accounts Receivable: Improve cash flow and send invoices to customers faster using an integrated accounts receivable management system. 
    • Accounts Payable: Eliminate manual processes and automate payment payments. Issue electronic payments at decreased costs. 
    • Financial Controls and Analysis: Leverage thorough reporting to receive necessary information and improve performance, increase revenue and reduce costs. Customize, schedule and secure reports in one system. 
    • Factoring: Get a clearer understanding of cash flow and check invoice factoring to get a complete picture of all finances. 
    • Accounting integrations: Integrate with third-party vendors to meet organizational goals. 
  • Trucking ELD: Ensure freight safety by tracking drivers’ locations via GPS and duty statuses. Receive odometer readings to ensure no fuel is wasted, and vehicles aren’t used outside of working hours. Access service hours, logging, dispatch and maintenance in a single place and improve efficiency.
  • Mobile Express: Leverage the driver management and communication system to automate two-way communication between the dispatch team and drivers. Deliver and receive concise information to and from drivers. 
C.H. Robinson
C.H. Robinson
Analyst Rating
67
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for C.H. Robinson, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Deployment
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Platform
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Why We Picked C.H. Robinson

C.H. Robinson's software has received mixed reviews from users over the past year, with some praising its comprehensive features and others criticizing its complexity and customer support. Users appreciate the platform's ability to manage various aspects of transportation and logistics, including shipment tracking, carrier management, and freight quoting. The software's strength lies in its extensive network of carriers and its ability to provide real-time visibility into shipment status. However, some users find the interface to be overwhelming and difficult to navigate, particularly for those new to transportation management systems. Additionally, customer support has been cited as a weakness, with users reporting long wait times and unhelpful responses. Compared to similar products, C.H. Robinson stands out for its vast network and global reach, making it suitable for businesses with complex shipping needs. However, its complexity and customer support issues may deter smaller businesses or those seeking a more user-friendly experience. Ultimately, C.H. Robinson's software is best suited for large enterprises with extensive transportation requirements and dedicated personnel to manage the platform effectively.

Pros & Cons

  • Extensive Carrier Network: C.H. Robinson boasts a vast network of carriers, providing shippers with more options and flexibility to move their freight efficiently. This can lead to better rates and improved service levels.
  • Limited Visibility and Control: Users have expressed concerns regarding the platform's lack of real-time tracking and limited shipment visibility, making it challenging to proactively address potential issues and optimize supply chain operations.
  • Technology and Integration Challenges: The platform's user interface and integration capabilities have been cited as areas for improvement. Users have reported difficulties with system navigation, data synchronization, and compatibility with existing enterprise systems, leading to inefficiencies and frustration.
  • Customer Support Concerns: Some users have raised concerns about the responsiveness and effectiveness of customer support, particularly in resolving complex issues or providing timely assistance. This can impact user satisfaction and the overall experience with the platform.

Key Features

  • Freight: Access customized solutions to handle multiple freight shipment types.
    • Air: Includes space and scheduling services through passenger and cargo planes using existing carrier relationships. The Global Carrier Management program provides consistent access to daily departure schedules for all air freights.
    • Flatbed: Choose from vetted cross-border flatbeds and specialized equipment, with on-request expert guidance.
    • Intermodal: Offers numerous cross-border, expedited and drayage and port services for simplified intermodal shipping globally.
    • LTL: Provides common LTL carriers to consolidate and deconsolidate freights as per space requirements. Includes expedited carriers, last-mile deliveries and insurance.
    • Ocean Shipping: Expert assistance to help analyze freight characteristics and strategize accordingly. Services include full container load, less than container load, buyer’s consolidation and expedited FCL services on Trans-Atlantic Westbound Trade lanes.
    • Rail Shipping: Provides rail shipment carrier options across Europe and Asia. Includes GPS-enabled block trains for location transparency and door-to-door services beyond the railyard.
    • Truckload: Support truckload strategies with a managed carrier pool of more than 73,000 contract carriers in North America. Supports truckload RFP operations and offers real-time tracking capabilities globally.
    • Temperature Controlled: Access a monitored network of temperature-controlled carriers on contract. Carriers are customized to sustain and deliver product and temperature-specific requirements while staying STF compliant. A team of 8,000 experts is available to handle sensitive freight.
    • Small Parcel: Offers dedicated service for seamless and cost-efficient small parcel deliveries across North America. Parcel intelligence technology provides in-depth insights to support RFP analysis, business intelligence analytics, freight payments and audits.
  • Supply Chain and Logistics:
    • Consolidation: Includes freight, retail and automotive consolidation, with forward distribution. Combine multiple-supplier orders into single shipments with pre-paid supplier and retail-direct programs.
    • Cross-Border: Provides special assistance for intra-Canada and intra-Mexico shipments. Choose between OEA and C-TPAT compliant contract carriers for mitigating shipment-related risks within intra-Mexico shipments.
    • Customs and Trade Compliance: Offers multiple services such as customs brokerage and CARM advisory, import and export compliance consulting, including assistance for trade policy auditing.
    • Last Mile: Leverage last-mile deliveries across North America. Includes curbside, in-home room of choice, in-home package removal and product assembly services.
    • Managed Procurement: Access managed procurement tools for supply chain analysis, SKU translation and order consolidation, and track and trace orders to their store locations.
    • Project Logistics: Offers logistic management solutions across South Asia, North America, Europe, the UK, Oceania and Latin America. Assists with risk assessment, holistic project management, live tracking and global multimodal solutions.
    • Consulting: Leverage live guidance from industry experts on program management, procurement, engineering, data as a service, strategic planning and trade compliance.
    • TMS: Provides customizable and dedicated small business, global services and TMS solutions. Automates transportation and supply chain management across different regions, transportation modes and channels.
    • Warehousing: Access secure warehouse spaces at crucial locations along border sides. Supports product dispersal after meeting compliance requirements.
FreightPOP Award
FreightPOP
FreightPOP
Analyst Rating
67
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating for FreightPOP, is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
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Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Why We Picked FreightPOP

Navigating the sea of Transportation Management Systems (TMS) can feel overwhelming, but FreightPOP emerges as a contender worth considering, especially for businesses seeking an intuitive and efficient solution. User feedback over the past year paints a picture of a platform celebrated for its user-friendliness and ability to streamline freight management processes. Reviewers frequently highlight the ease of setup and the short learning curve, enabling teams to quickly adapt and integrate the software into their workflows. The platform's ability to efficiently manage both inbound and outbound shipments, encompassing parcel and freight, further solidifies its value proposition for businesses with diverse shipping needs.

However, like any software, FreightPOP isn't without its shortcomings. Some users point to a relative lack of features compared to more established competitors, potentially limiting its suitability for businesses with highly complex logistics requirements. Additionally, the pricing structure has drawn some criticism, with some users finding it comparatively expensive. Despite these drawbacks, FreightPOP's strengths in user experience and core TMS functionalities make it a compelling option for small to medium-sized businesses seeking to optimize their freight management without the complexity of feature-rich, enterprise-grade solutions. The responsive customer support team is frequently praised for its promptness and effectiveness in resolving issues, further enhancing the overall user experience. Ultimately, FreightPOP strikes a balance between ease of use, essential features, and customer support, making it a valuable tool for businesses looking to enhance their shipping efficiency and visibility.

Pros & Cons

  • Streamlined Shipping Processes: FreightPOP helps users save time by automating tasks like generating shipping labels and documents, which reduces manual data entry and the risk of errors.
  • Improved Visibility and Tracking: The platform provides real-time shipment tracking and visibility, allowing users to monitor their shipments' progress and proactively address any potential issues.
  • Cost Savings: FreightPOP helps users optimize shipping costs by providing tools for comparing carrier rates, identifying the most cost-effective shipping options, and consolidating shipments.
  • Enhanced Customer Service: The platform's tracking and visibility features enable users to provide their customers with accurate and up-to-date information about their shipments, improving customer satisfaction.
  • Customer Support: Users have reported challenges in getting timely and effective assistance from FreightPOP's customer support, leading to frustration and delays in resolving issues.
  • System Performance: Instances of system slowdowns and glitches have been noted, impacting user productivity and efficiency. This can be particularly disruptive for time-sensitive logistics operations.
  • Usability: Some users find the platform's interface to be less intuitive than desired, requiring a steeper learning curve and potentially hindering user adoption within organizations.

Key Features

  • Rate Shopping: Facilitates comparison among foresight rates and optimal carrier services to choose the best carrier rates. Consolidates carrier names, mode, days, discounted rates and other details on a single page. 
  • Quick Implementation: Quickly add carriers, set up integrations and carry out the implementation process to start shipping in a few minutes. 
  • BOLs and Labels: Create shipping labels, BOLs and international documents including packing slips, invoices, customs forms and more. 
    •  Print for all carriers such as Fedex. 
    •  Print labels for intermodal, FTL and LTL carriers. 
    •  Print AWBs and SLIs for ocean freight and international air carriers. 
  • Centralized Inventory Tracking: Track inbound and outbound shipments in real time, filter shipments based on categories, send red flag updates and view shipment details. Provides multileg visibility including third-party shipments. 
  • Reporting and Analytics: Customized reporting capabilities help analyze and optimize efficiency and freight expenses across all modes and carriers. Assists in detailed comparison with historical data to create improved strategies. 
  • Integrations: Provides a variety of integrations and carriers to choose for the business. Also connects with common business software used including CRM, inventory systems, WMS and ERP. 
  • Batch Shipping: Enables processing a large number of shipments within a matter of minutes and helps determine the least costly choice to incur minimum spendings per freight batch. 

COMPARE THE BEST TMS Software

Select up to 5 Products from the list below to compare

 
Product
Score
i
SelectHub’s Analyst Rating is based on data from our 400+ point analysis of TMS Software, user reviews, and our own crowd-sourced data from our free software selection platform. Scores are periodically updated via ongoing selection projects and user activity within our platform.
Start Price
Free Trial
Company Size
Deployment
Platform
Logo
Kuebix
85
$0
Usage-Based, Freemium
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
Kuebix
SAP Transportation Management
85
$800,000
Quote-based
No
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
SAP Transportation Management
MercuryGate
83
$10,000
Annually
No
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
MercuryGate
Oracle Transportation Management
78
$600
Monthly
No
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
Oracle Transportation Management
Uber Freight
74
Undisclosed
No
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
Uber Freight
Manhattan TMS
72
Undisclosed
No
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
Manhattan TMS
Luminate Logistics
68
Undisclosed
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
Luminate Logistics
PCS
68
$410
Per User, Monthly
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
PCS
C.H. Robinson
67
Undisclosed
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
C.H. Robinson
FreightPOP
67
Undisclosed
No
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
FreightPOP

All TMS Software (98 found)

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MercuryGate

by Mercury Gate International
MercuryGate
MercuryGate is a global transportation management system that can handle all modes of delivery. This software package comes with architecture that makes it easy to integrate with other platforms, including those for WMS and ERP. Plan, optimize and execute stock movements through a single-platform. This platform provides high-level visibility into all tasks and helps quickly locate suitable carriers to transport stock. As your operation grows in response to the global transportation market, this application contains functionality to scale up to fit more complex requirements.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$1,000 or more
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
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Uber Freight

by Uber Freight
Uber Freight
Uber Freight, a software solution developed by Uber Freight Holdings Corporation, is designed to streamline transportation management systems (TMS) for businesses of all sizes. It is particularly beneficial for companies looking to optimize their logistics and supply chain operations through technology. Uber Freight offers a range of features including real-time tracking, pricing transparency, and automated booking that help businesses improve efficiency and reduce costs. Users often highlight the platform's user-friendly interface and the ease of connecting with a vast network of carriers as key benefits. Compared to similar products in the market, Uber Freight is praised for its innovative approach to freight logistics, leveraging Uber's extensive experience in the mobility sector. Pricing for Uber Freight varies based on the specific services and features a business requires, with options typically including per-shipment pricing and subscription models to accommodate different usage levels and budgetary needs.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$500 - $1,000
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
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JDA TMS

by JDA Software Group
JDA TMS
JDA TMS, now Blue Yonder, is designed to transform transportation operations across industries. It provides end-to-end visibility, planning and execution capabilities to help companies optimize transportation networks. It includes integrated transportation planning and execution, leveraging real-time data and AI/ML to sense disruptions and respond autonomously.It offers dynamic transportation modeling to identify the most efficient and cost-effective solutions, with the ability to run "what-if" scenarios. The system connects to a wide carrier network, enabling the planning and consumption of logistics services based on extended supply chain data.This product serves all sizes of enterprises, including manufacturers and logistics providers. Customers praise its ability to enhance service levels, decrease logistics costs and boost capacity utilization. Pricing information isn't publicly available, as it’s typically based on the specific needs and requirements of customers. Businesses can contact Blue Yonder or its implementation partner, Netlogistik, for a personalized quote.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$1,000 or more
Company Size
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SAP Transportation Management

by SAP, Inc.
SAP Transportation Management
This SAP transportation management platform features both on-premise and cloud-based deployment styles. Features a number of tools focused on increasing end-to-end efficiency and increased visibility. Operations can leverage forecasting tools in order to effectively plan ahead for a range of transport processes while gaining valuable insight into project-wide data.This application provides collaboration features to enhance communication with partners and clients. Automation tools optimize processes that normally require a large investment of manual resources.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$1,000 or more
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
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Logility

by Logility
Logility
Logility focuses on transportation and supply chain management, helping automate, streamline and optimize processes in order to cut costs and increase accuracy. It provides multiple avenues to improve supply chains and contains a wide array of planning and forecasting tools. It employs algorithmic planning to assess and mitigate risks while keeping users informed of any incoming business opportunities. Gain visibility into a variety of supply chain operations and use the valuable data gathered from each to make effective planning decisions.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$100 - $500
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
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BluJay TMS

by BlueJay Solutions
BluJay TMS
BluJay TMS, acquired by e2open in 2021, is a cloud transport management solution that simplifies and improves freight shipping. It tackles everything from selecting carriers and negotiating rates to tracking shipments and confirming deliveries. It benefits logistics managers, shipping coordinators and procurement specialists.The cloud's flexibility lets businesses scale without costly physical installations. It suits a variety of operations, from mid-size shippers to big companies with complex carrier requirements. Pricing depends on the features and functions businesses need.Users praise its user-friendly interface and ease of use. Many appreciate the extensive features that streamline shipping. Real-time shipment tracking and automatic carrier selection are often mentioned as helpful advantages.However, occasional system stability issues exist. The high cost, due to unclear pricing, is a barrier for small businesses. Some reviewers also mention a slight learning curve.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$1,000 or more
Company Size
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IBM Sterling

by IBM
IBM Sterling
IBM Sterling is an open, integrated platform that leverages advanced technologies like AI and blockchain to connect with the supplier ecosystem. It provides real-time insights, end-to-end visibility and recommended measures to transform interruptions into customer engagement, profit and growth opportunities. It offers support for supplier, inventory and order management. Users can build smarter business networks using business process improvement, supply chain visibility, supplier collaboration, manufacturing solutions, order fulfillment and retail solutions. It also supports B2B collaboration to fulfill ongoing business demands, minimize complexity and reduce costs.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
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Manhattan TMS

by Manhattan Associates
Manhattan TMS
Manhattan TMS is a robust, connectable and scalable solution that provides rapid implementation with multiple utilities. It offers planning, a focus on optimization and improved transport technology execution. It lets logistics and transportation managers leverage the multi-modal outbound and inbound capabilities necessary for creating utility within a transportation network or a supply chain.It enables clients to meet customer expectations with greater convenience, reliability, visibility and fast deliveries. Its modules include software modeling, procurement, planning and execution, fleet management, audit, payment and claims and carrier management.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$1,000 or more
Company Size
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Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Kuebix

by Kuebix
Kuebix
Kuebix is a cloud-based product focused on optimizing supply chain and distribution efficiency by increasing visibility and employing analytics. Its modular platform can meet the requirements of simple or complex supply chains and scale with a business as it grows. Its multi-modal carrier network gives users numerous options to get their shipments to their destinations with trusted carriers. Users can cut costs and boost savings with easily requestable spot quotes and rate comparisons. It allows users to compare shipping options in one easy place without searching website by website. It also saves time on manual processes via automated audits and carrier matches.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 or less
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
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Oracle Transportation Management

by Oracle America
Oracle Transportation Management
Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) is a cloud-based platform designed to help businesses manage their transportation logistics. It offers a range of features, including shipment planning and execution, freight procurement, and visibility and tracking. OTM is most suited for large and mid-sized businesses with complex transportation needs, such as those in the manufacturing, retail, and distribution industries. Important benefits of OTM include improved efficiency, reduced costs, and increased visibility into the supply chain. Popular features include route optimization, multi-modal support, and global trade management. User experiences indicate that OTM is a powerful and comprehensive solution, but can be challenging to implement and integrate with other systems. Pricing is based on a subscription model, with costs varying depending on the number of users and features required. Per unit pricing is also available for certain features. Generally, OTM is considered to be a premium-priced solution compared to some competitors. However, its comprehensive feature set and potential return on investment (ROI) often justify the cost for large organizations. Pros Comprehensive features Scalability and flexibility Enhanced visibility and control Powerful automation capabilities Responsive and knowledgeable support Cons Significant cost investment Complexity and learning curve Implementation and integration challenges Limited customization options Potential integration difficulties
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$500 - $1,000
Company Size
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Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Aljex

by The Descartes Systems Group
Aljex
Based in the cloud, Aljex’s freight brokering software is mobile and accessible from anywhere at any time. It’s customizable and works with businesses of all sizes. It’s built to scale with a business as it grows and adapts alongside its unique requirements. A free update in November of 2016 called Aljex-Vision increased homepage speed, added map views, introduced exception filters and further boosted the accuracy of calculating brokerage percentages.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: good
Cost Breakdown
$100 - $500
Company Size
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Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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IntelliShift

by IntelliShift
IntelliShift
IntelliShift (formerly Silent Passenger) facilitates robust, end-to-end vehicle and asset operations management. Based on the cloud, it provides modules for operation intelligence, telematics, compliance, maintenance, customer management, route, safety and fuel management. It offers AI-powered actionable data insights with unified data to help users predict results and optimize business performance. Its key benefits include seamless integration with other existing suites, easy deployment, safety metrics and decreased cost per asset.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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UltraShipTMS

by UltraShipTMS
UltraShipTMS
UltraShipTMS provides users with helpful services and consultations to help improve and optimize their transportation and supply chain networks. It is a single-source for shipment optimization, transportation and settlement across all transport modes. It is available as an affordable, flexible, SaaS model. It offers inclusions that re-engineer and transform supply chain mechanisms while bringing more network visibility, accountability and collaboration.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$500 - $1,000
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Freightview 

by Freightview
Freightview 
Freightview, a cloud-based freight management suite, enables manufacturers and distributors to cut the time and expense spent on shipping freight. It helps streamline the entire shipping setup to deliver improved visibility, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Users can compare shipping rates, schedule pickups, prepare lading bills, print labels for shipping, track shipments, manage carrier relationships and negotiate rates. Reports, graphs, and charts offer end-to-end visualization of shipping operations.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
Company Size
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Deployment
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Roadnet

by Omnitracs
Roadnet
Roadnet Transportation Suite is cloud-based and offers a range of tools to its users. It was acquired by Omnitracs Telematics, a SaaS fleet management provider in 2013. Its primary utility is to ensure that fleet managers and operators have pinpointed, real-time access to operating data to aid them in carrying out everyday operations. It enables the user to effectively monitor their vehicle usage, including operating parameters, engine faults, idle time and others. As a result, the user can track, analyze and influence or modify the behaviors of fleet drivers, leading to seamless fleet operations.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: fair
Cost Breakdown
$10 or less
Company Size
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Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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C.H. Robinson

by C.H. Robinson Worldwide
C.H. Robinson
CH Robinson is cloud-based and offers technology, transportation network and intensive guidance to support supply chain and logistics businesses. Its specialties include global logistics transportation, supply chain and procurement management. Shippers can leverage freight services such as air, flatbed, intermodal, LTL, ocean and rail with temperature-controlled carriers. Its supply chain modules include warehousing, consulting, last mile and cross-border deliveries, and custom guidance and compliance. It offers region-specific logistics services to companies of all sizes and types across Asia, Europe, Latin America, North America, Oceania and South Asia.
Cost Breakdown
$1,000 or more
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
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Trimble Transportation

by Trimble Inc.
Trimble Transportation
Trimble Transportation offers a comprehensive suite of software solutions designed to streamline and optimize transportation management tasks, including Transportation Management Systems (TMS). This software is particularly well-suited for logistics companies, freight brokers, and carriers within industries such as trucking, shipping, and supply chain management. The platform excels in providing real-time visibility, route optimization, and efficient load planning, which are crucial for these sectors. One of the standout benefits of Trimble Transportation is its ability to integrate seamlessly with various other systems, enhancing operational efficiency and data accuracy. Popular features include advanced analytics, automated workflows, and robust reporting capabilities. Users often highlight the software's user-friendly interface and the significant improvements in operational efficiency and cost savings it delivers. Compared to similar products, Trimble Transportation is praised for its scalability and customization options, making it adaptable to businesses of different sizes and needs. Pricing details are typically customized based on specific requirements, so it's advisable to contact SelectHub for a tailored quote.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: good
Cost Breakdown
$1,000 or more
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
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DAT

by DAT Solutions
DAT
DAT is a cloud-based transportation solution that provides capabilities for asset and freight management, transportation dispatch, carrier tracking, cost benchmarking and more. It provides specialized and custom features for carriers, brokers and shippers to facilitate transport management. Users can streamline freight brokerage, monitor carrier status, save on costs, track time and gain end-to-end visibility within all freight and logistic operations. A functional mobile app is a part of the MembersEdge, TruckersEdge, Express and Power accounts for all Android users.
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
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uRoute

by UROUTE
uRoute
uRoute is designed to enable and empower shippers across the world to handle their transportation effectively. It provides users with claims management, bill auditing, robust analytics, e-load tendering, spot bid capabilities, RFQ development, direct e-carrier management, user-friendly shipment procurement and more. These features define an interface that can be accessed from anywhere in just a few clicks. It is web-based and can be a useful option for organizations that already have or plan to outgrow spreadsheets. It has a straightforward and user friendly interface that allows new users to adapt it quickly without IT support. Its wide range of features enables shippers and carriers to manage multi-stop and intermodal shipments, drayage, truckloads and various other shipment categories. Users can easily access their interface from any kind of screen including, desktop, laptop, tablet, or a mobile device. It also aids in multi-facility management and is easily integrable with accounting modules, API communication, customer EDI, WMS and an ERP.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 or less
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
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Agistix

by Agistix
Agistix
Agistix is a global supply chain and transportation management software suite. It aids businesses with complex supply chains to gain better visibility over their shipments. It is agile and supports all modes, suppliers, carriers, and systems. Data and analytics provide detailed insights regarding a business’s supply chain. It enables users to act on opportunities found by studying in-house data and providing actionable insights. It also includes real-time shipment transit updates, and users can control shipping charges, get improved contracts, check for fraud and establish strategic and more reliable supply chains.
Cost Breakdown
$100 - $500
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
Request with no obligation:
Demo Pricing

Price Guide

See the Price/User for the top TMS software… plus the most important considerations and questions to ask when shopping.

Buyer's Guide

The Best TMS Software Is All About Transportation Organization and Efficiency 

By Urnesha Bhattacherjee, Technical Content Writer at SelectHub

TMS Software Buyer's Guide

When it comes to transportation management, efficiency and accuracy are essential. Optimizing the transportation side of the supply chain is a challenge. Things can get complex between organizing fleets of trucks, optimizing shipping routes and maintaining organized billing practices..

It’s okay to feel a bit overwhelmed. Luckily, transport management software can take care of most of the work.

This guide will examine deployment, reasons to implement transport management solutions, cost considerations, features, questions to ask yourself and vendors, and more. Read on for all the details.

Executive Summary

  • Boost efficiency and organization while gaining supply chain visibility.
  • Transport management solutions increase transportation intelligence, reduce errors and enhance customer service functionalities.
  • TMS systems provide foundational core features and advanced functionality for more complex operations.
  • When budgeting for a solution, consider the total cost of ownership, which can include elements like add-on features, customization and training.
  • Includes a list of questions to ask vendors to help narrow down your choices.
What This Guide Covers:
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What Is TMS Software?

Transport management software are tools that help businesses plan and optimize the physical movement of goods, visualize delivery pathways and reduce shipping costs.

These systems are important in various shipment modes and processes, especially supply chain management and optimization.

Transportation software leverages powerful automation and analytics while tapping into ERP and warehousing systems for streamlined freighting. It provides shippers with valuable insights that optimize speed, reduce shipment spending, improve planning and more.

A comprehensive transportation tool should handle all, or at least most, of these shipment modes:

  • Parcel
  • Air Freight
  • International Air Freight
  • Ocean Freight
  • LTL (less than truckload) and FTL (full truckload)
  • Intermodal
  • Any other shipping modes relevant to your TMS operations

Types of Transportation Management Solutions

Logistics Software

Transportation management solutions that automate warehousing, shipping and other logistical operations are called logistics software. These tools often integrate with order management software, warehousing management software and supply chain software to plan and control the movement of goods and services.

3PL providers frequently use these TMS systems to:

  • Track the movement of freight from the warehouse to the end user.
  • Handle carrier relationships and contracts in a centralized position.
  • Automate billing and invoicing operations, such as cost calculation based on cargo size, location, delivery time/date and other variables.
Dispatch Software

Dispatch software is the wing of transport management software that handles the movement of products across various locations. It tracks all dispatch activities from a unified dashboard, improving operations and increasing productivity.

This component of TMS software includes capabilities like billing and invoicing, asset monitoring and analytics, and reporting.

Dispatch software helps you:

  • Assign vehicles and drivers based on availability, location and delivery dates.
  • Track shipments using the vehicle's geolocation.
  • Optimize routes in real time.
Trucking Software

Trucking software is a form of transport management software aimed at automating a trucking company's dispatch management, fleet management, and accounting operations. It has functions like transportation planning, dispatching, load planning, driver management, and billing & invoicing.

Trucking software focuses on trucks as a means of transportation, whereas transport management software encompasses all other vehicles.

Transportation management solutions can be a stand-alone system or part of a more extensive solution that includes enterprise resource planning (ERP), transportation dispatch software, fleet management software, and supply chain management software.

Fleet Management Software

Fleet management software is a kind of transportation management system that facilitates the management of a vehicle fleet. It often contains vehicle tracking and monitoring, maintenance and repair scheduling, and route optimization capabilities.

Some fleet software additionally contains GPS and telematics to monitor driver conduct, distance traveled and fuel usage in real time, assuring fleet, driver and passenger safety.

It’s a subset of transportation management solutions that automates many parts of shipping and logistics, like order planning, route optimization, carrier management, shipment tracking, and payment and refund processing.

Deployment Methods

Much like the transportation arm of a supply chain, mobility and speed is king when deploying transport management software. Cloud-based systems have a sizable advantage over on-premise transport management solutions, but each has benefits and limitations worth considering.

Cloud-Based

Cloud-based transportation management systems have a major advantage over their on-premise counterparts: mobility. Many of these suites let you log in through any internet-enabled device without limiting your access to information and functionality. Any updates or maintenance push through in real time without interrupting your workflows.

They also usually offer a subscription-based payment plan, which can be crucial for smaller businesses looking for a transportation management solution. Even though cloud-based solutions have a low cost of entry, monthly payments can add up over time.

On-Premise

On-premise TMS software, while secure, usually requires a significant investment to purchase and maintain. You’ll need to house the equipment and pay support staff to keep things running.

However, unlike browser-based offerings, on-premise deployments don’t rely on a stable internet connection. You also have full control over the system and can make expensive, though helpful, customizations to fit your unique TMS requirements.

It’s best to consider what you need to accomplish and which deployment strategy best serves your near-future and long-term goals.

Primary Benefits

As supply chains continue to grow, the usage of TMS software will continue to rise, with Research and Markets estimating that the global TMS systems market is expected to reach a value of $21 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 19%.

Successful transportation management is critical when facing disruptions and fluctuating market demands.

Company stakeholders searching for transport management software often seek advanced logistics support for their supply chains. There are many moving parts to a supply chain, and a common need among users is organization.

Whether you need some help consolidating freight, achieving greater visibility along your supply chain, managing inventory or optimizing fleet performance, TMS systems have the answer.

Here are some of the standout benefits that these systems bring to the table:

TMS Software Benefits

Boost Organization and Accuracy

Organization and precision are two crucial pillars of a successful transportation management business. Customers want instant gratification and quicker deliveries more than ever before.

The best transportation software systems help organize your fleets and back of house to keep your processes running smoothly.

TMS systems can also navigate the complicated waters of international transportation with accurate compliance management tools.

They also streamline tedious and error-prone billing processes by reducing manual entries and highlighting accounting errors.

Improve Visibility

When enhancing a supply chain, visibility into its various ecosystems is vital. Transportation management solutions drill down into a transport operation’s numerous processes and turn the data they discover into visually digestible charts and graphs.

This visibility can help adequately plan your inventory and pair optimal carriers with your shipments. These features measure vital metrics and KPIs so managers can focus on inefficiencies and head off problems.

Visibility into freight data can divulge discrepancies and their origins so that your teams can correct errors before they cost your company.

Automate Workflows

It’s no surprise that automating tedious manual entry and paperwork-bound processes can boost efficiency. Even smaller operations that don’t have complex volumes of data to analyze can benefit from billing automation.

Automating accounting tasks eliminates human error and allows you to focus resources elsewhere.

As the market continues to evolve, we are seeing continual growth in the use of robotics to support supply chains across the world. The global business process automation (BPA) market value is expected to reach $19.6 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 12.2%.

These numbers are projected to rise with time as the world’s supply chains adapt to the new normal and recover in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Driverless trucks that leverage AI to navigate traffic and drones are just a few examples of science fiction-esque trends on the rise. We’ll cover this in detail in our trends section.

Cut Costs

TMS software features work together to help you adapt to customer demand, improve labor management and boost efficiency. In other words, these systems save you money.

These solutions reduce resource drain from route and fuel optimization to automatic invoicing. They also give you actionable insights into altering your business strategies to position yourself better in the market.

One prominent advantage of TMS solutions is that they offer tools to streamline tasks in a variety of departments. This support helps fleet managers and organizations with reporting, billing, order managing, and dispatch from a single centralized platform.

You can even integrate transportation software with your current platform, depending upon the integrations offered by the suite.

Integration among different processes and systems allows teams to work together, improves visibility, and facilitates cooperation and communication.

Transport Management Software Report

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Implementation Goals

Goal 1

Manage Freight Costs

Start saving money immediately with a quick analysis of the many variables involved in the transportation process using TMS software.

Cut costs associated with shipping modes, freight weight and delivery distance. This data allows cost-efficient decision-making that can save both time and money.

Goal 2

Quickly Consolidate Shipments

These tools rapidly consolidate multiple orders into their most efficient configurations.

Free up valuable employee time spent putting together bundles of freight and cut costs by maximizing freight consolidation.

Goal 3

Automate Billing Support

Reduce billing errors through automated payment transport management software. Settle bills for service, asset usage and cost accruals with low turnaround. Maintain organized records on freight cost audits and fuel spending.

Goal 4

Find Better Shipping Routes

Receive live traffic and weather updates, fuel cost reports, road speed and modal transport insights to generate short and efficient transportation routes.

Optimized routes equal more on-time deliveries and saved money. Timely deliveries improve customer satisfaction and lead to repeat orders and sales.

Goal 5

Improve Customer Service

Transport management software improves customer service by ensuring timely deliveries, providing real-time tracking information and enabling better customer communication.
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Basic Features & Functionality

Automatic Order Processing

With transport logistics software, you can share the details of a purchase order directly with suppliers and file EEI via an automated export system.

Streamline sourcing and procurement tasks by automatically pulling data from past orders.
Driver Dispatch

Carry out dispatching responsibilities through the automation of mundane tasks. Utilize direct, real-time wireless communication for truck driver dispatch and deployment.

Allow dispatchers to quickly create, plan and track shipments.
Cargo Tracking

Cargo tracking locates products by their SKU identifications en route to and at their pool locations. Maintain customer trust through your ability to give them the exact location of any piece of freight.

A proactive and visible view of your shipping processes provides valuable data and the ability to strengthen weaker supply chain segments.
Freight Auditing

This component of TMS systems helps shippers save time and money by reviewing freight bills regularly to prevent overpaying. Freight auditing examines freight invoices to ensure that information is correct and corresponds to contracts.

A TMS facilitates freight auditing by automating the process of matching products to the client distribution list and confirming invoice accuracy.

Freight auditing enables shippers to track critical components of their logistics business, such as the status of all freight bills, patterns in delays and billing discrepancies.
Performance Tracking

Track vital performance metrics like transit, loading and unloading times with this TMS software functionality. Plan deadlines for shipments and collect data across your entire flow of goods.

Improve overall efficiency by identifying weak performance tracking metrics and addressing them.
Scheduled Pickup

Automate pickup with this TMS software inclusion. Automatically schedule pickups for a time of day that won’t interrupt your normal flow.

Get a head start on your deliveries with quick freight transfer scheduling.
Automatic Carrier Selection

Transport management software can automatically generate the most efficient carrier options for a new delivery. These systems connect you to a vast carrier pool with additional options to assist you in finding the right carrier at the correct price and service type.

Always choose the right carrier for your transportation needs and save money that would otherwise be spent on less efficient options.
Batch Shipping

Batch shipping lets users process hundreds or thousands of shipments in minutes. It saves time processing high shipment volumes and allows for creating shipping labels, BOLs, AWBs and other essential documents.

Batch shipping saves money by optimizing supply chains, minimizing waste and maintaining maximum efficiency.
Financial Management

Accounting modules can help streamline your payment processes and protect you from costly errors.

These features can help handle your claims and set your transactions up to cover shipping, handling and any last-minute charges.
Planning

TMS solutions provide important data that can help you analyze and plan shipping based on factors like transit time, service level, price and more.

These factors help decide which routes and carriers will transport items quicker and at the lowest cost.

Planning helps create, plan and track shipments quickly, minimizing labor and fuel expenses.
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Advanced Features & Functionality

After spending some time with the core features of TMS software, you will want to keep some of the more complex features in the back of your mind. These advanced functionalities can help boost efficiency in other portions of your supply chain that you may not have considered yet. Much like the core features, be sure to ask vendors about the availability of these functions in their transportation management software.

Transportation Intelligence

Analytics tools help you gather data from integral processes like transaction data, user interaction, profitability, and carrier and profit margins.

Tracking KPIs gives you a nice overhead view of what works and what doesn’t. Data about these key points allows for informed, forward-thinking business decisions.
Mobile Access

Access all the functionality of your TMS software from hand-held devices.

Use your platform, make informed business decisions and view trucking schedules, locations and driver performance from anywhere, anytime.
Dispute Management

Be in the know about any claims or damages at a moment’s notice with dispute management capabilities.

Solve issues before they spiral into disasters and keep customers happy with quick resolutions.

See how a shipment goes from on time to late and tackle problem areas.
Multimodal Shipments

Plan, optimize and execute multi-leg and multimodal shipments.

Use simple functionality to solve complex rate structures for loads involving more than one mode of transportation with multiple stops.
Transport Management Software Report

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Current & Upcoming Trends

Transportation companies need to be aware of new strategies, methods and trending strategies to stay in business and plan ahead. Apart from industry growth, there are some notable trends you should watch.

It’s an exciting yet challenging time in the industry, and investing in high-tech software that can help you weather changing demands will contribute to your success in the coming years.

TMS Software Trends

The Emergence of Autonomous Trucking

Necessity is the mother of invention, especially for global supply chains adapting to today’s conditions. Ongoing shortages of skilled truck drivers across America and companies looking to speed up transportation while maintaining their budgets make for an undesirable combination of situations.

Research by The American Trucking Association predicted the need for 80,000 additional drivers to sustain the industry in 2021. This demand is expected to grow to a need for 160,000 skilled truck drivers by 2030.

While this demand can be attributed to shortages of new drivers and COVID-19-induced early retirement plans, self-driving technology rescues logistics and supply chain sectors.

AI-powered driving and autonomous trucking will be game changers in the future.

Robotic Logistics

Logistics robots are an important trendsetter in transportation management.

In the wake of widespread labor shortages and increasing demand, intralogistics needs work. The solution lies in the robotic handling of warehouse process optimization, organization and automation.

The functional areas of inventory management that benefit from robotic intervention are:

  • Picking and unloading goods
  • Sorting
  • Heavy payload transport
  • Order consolidation
  • Putaway

With automated logistics, companies are looking to cut costs in last-mile deliveries and reduce human workloads.

Adaptive Intelligence and Machine Learning

Incorporating adaptive intelligence and machine learning in transportation management system software marks a major upgrade in operations, allowing businesses to optimize routes, estimate cargo volumes, monitor fleets, track vehicles in real time and make data-driven choices.

These technologies can potentially alter the transportation industry, giving businesses a competitive advantage and resulting in genuine supply chain improvement.

Here’s how AI and ML have benefitted the industry:

  • Machine learning can assist firms in planning their transportation needs and allocating resources accordingly by predicting cargo volumes.
  • Analytics teams use AI and machine learning to asses vehicle performance data and forecast repair requirements. These checks reduce downtime and improve fleet efficiency.
  • AI and machine learning greatly improve security in intelligent transportation systems by guarding against potential attacks and vulnerabilities.

Electric Vehicles on the Road

Constant transport management system software innovation enables the large-scale adoption and sale of electric vehicles (EVs). Carbon-free, zero-waste and battery-powered resources are the leading trends in transportation today.

Stephen Quinn, VP of a global logistics company, PiVAL, comments, “2022 brought record high fuel prices, which significantly impacted the trucking industry and, in turn, the consumer, due to higher landed cost for products.

This, coupled with a growing demand on shippers to reduce their carbon footprint will speed up the demand for electric vehicles, much like the pandemic sped up working remote.”

A recent study shows that 28% of the surveyed workforce (40.7 million Americans) could work remotely by 2025.

Handle these changes using effective transport management solutions that track, monitor and manage fleet operations with dashboards or mobile apps.

Transport Management Software Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top TMS systems

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Software Comparison Strategy

It’s clear that there are several capabilities that the top TMS software brings to the table when optimizing your supply chain.

To start, define a clear set of requirements. Then, compare your requirements list with the capabilities offered by your shortlisted vendors.

Refer to our user-friendly requirements template to start on the right path. Clearly defined requirements will help you prioritize and analyze which features are more important than the rest.

Once you have defined the requirements, evaluate different products and match their offerings against your predefined list. You can browse our leaderboards to evaluate products and access interactive analyst reports.

You should also learn about the history and reputation of vendors through client reviews. Price is a significant factor when deciding which software to choose.

Things To Keep In Mind

By now, you probably know what you need in terms of transport management software. However, selecting the right solution can be tricky, and making the wrong choice can cost you a lot of resources. You need to be aware of a few points when choosing a solution.

Things to keep in mind while choosing a TMS

Avoid Long-Term Contracts

There are plenty of fish in the sea, so you should avoid signing a long-term contract of five years or more. This way, you can switch to another solution if the first buy doesn't work out.

Emphasis on Free Trials or Live Demos

First-hand interaction with live features is helpful when evaluating software. Trying out the software before you pay for it gives you a great opportunity to get a look and feel for all of its features and aspects.

Free or Open-API Solutions Don’t Always Work

There are plenty of free TMS solutions available online. Some even offer an excellent set of features and usability. If you’ve just started a business, they may work for you. However, if you have a medium-sized to enterprise-level business, it’s best to avoid freebies and opt for a paid tool to handle your needs.

ROI and Profitability Are Essential

Investing in a solution is fine, but does it yield benefits? If you don’t see a return on investment for the specific solution you plan to go ahead with, think again. A suitable solution should help you optimize your transportation management operation, reduce manual work, leave more time in hand and save money.

Cost & Pricing Considerations

While evaluating transport management solutions, you should consider a variety of aspects such as your organization size and structure, deployment method, allocated budget, integrations offered, and number of tool usability.

If you choose an on-premise deployment model, for example, maintenance costs may push up the overall price of the software. Similarly, you can save money if the vendor offers free integration with other tools.

Key factors you should ideally look for include:

  • Integrations offered.
  • Deployment models and their additional pricing.
  • Scope of customization.
  • Yearly maintenance charges.
  • Price of add-on features.
  • Training costs.
  • Anything else that may be applicable to your specific vendor.
Transport Management Software Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top TMS systems

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Questions To Ask Yourself

Ask these internal questions to get your team on the right path to a suitable transportation software suite.

  • What pain points does the current solution fail to address?
  • Will you invest in an all-new TMS system or just added integrations?
  • Will the transport management software support your long-term goals?
  • What additional features and integrations do you need?
  • Do you have the IT resources?
  • Do you require an individual tool or an all-in-one product?
  • Who will use this solution?
  • What level of customization and support do you need?

Questions to Ask About TMS Software

 

 

 

Questions To Ask Vendors

About the Software

  • What other features do you offer? For instance, CRM, payroll, time and attendance, EDI or inventory management solutions?
  • What platforms are supported?
  • Is there an additional customer support system in place? How much do you charge?
  • Does this solution link to a carrier network?
  • Can I see a live demo of the software?
  • Does the solution mesh with the size of our business?
  • Is there any overhead setup cost involved? How much do you charge?
  • How does the software integrate with our supply chain?

About the Vendor

Use these questions as a starting point for conversations with vendors:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • What measures do you take to ensure data privacy and security?
  • Do you serve other clients in the same industry?
  • What is the user support model?
  • How do you plan to stay relevant in the next 5 years?
Transport Management Software Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top TMS systems

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Next Steps

With increasing capacity, rising rates and changes spurred on by the pandemic, managing shipping and logistics is extremely challenging. Shipping organizations need a clear view of all operations and control over them from a single location.

Transport management software relieves human resources to take care of more critical areas, including decision-making. We hope this guide helped you understand where to start and what direction to take when choosing new transportation management solutions.

To explore solutions with features like carrier selection, route optimization and AI vehicle allotment, grab our free comparison report.

Product Comparisons

Additional Resources

About The Contributors

The following expert team members are responsible for creating, reviewing, and fact checking the accuracy of this content.

Urnesha
By Urnesha Bhattacharjee
Technical Content Writer
Urnesha is a Technical Content Writer at SelectHub, covering supply chain management, TMS, and compensation management. She has worked in content writing, editorship, and translation for the last 7 years. Her dream is to be a lifelong learner and venture out of her comfort zone as she does so. She's passionate about access to quality education, animal rights, and sustainability, among other things. She holds a Master's degree in English literature from the University of Hyderabad. Outside of work, you can find her listening to The Beatles, making memes, or volunteering at an animal NGO.
See Full Bio
Mohit
Technical Research By Mohit Hariramani
Senior Analyst
Mohit has a degree and Master in Finance from Mumbai, India, his years of professional market research experience started in 2019. His expertise lies in categories such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing, Inventory Management, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Facility Management Software (FMS), POS Systems (Point of Sale) and more. Through his academic and professional background, he honed skills in attention to detail, navigating ambiguity, and analytical prowess, which uniquely equip him to manage and thrive in the dynamic landscape of these diverse categories. He's passionate about leveraging his knowledge and experience to contribute effectively to the assigned technology areas.
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Kankana
Technical Review By Kankana Kalita
Principal Analyst
A seasoned business and research analyst, Kankana Kalita specializes in ERP, CMMS, manufacturing, construction, supply chain, HRMS and CRM. Prior to joining SelectHub, she earned a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Engineering, an MBA in Operations and Marketing, and worked in email marketing and logistics.
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Hunter
Edited By Hunter Lowe
Content Editor
Hunter Lowe is a Content Editor, Writer and Market Analyst at SelectHub. His team covers categories that range from ERP and business intelligence to transportation and supply chain management. Hunter is an avid reader and Dungeons and Dragons addict who studied English and Creative Writing through college. In his free time, you'll likely find him devising new dungeons for his players to explore, checking out the latest video games, writing his next horror story or running around with his daughter.
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