As supply chain models increasingly rely on cloud technology, more companies are leveraging transportation management systems (TMS).
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These all-in-one platforms optimize logistics operations by providing:
- Transportation Cost Management: Thanks to technology like delivery route optimization, companies can increase the turnaround time of deliveries, reduce empty miles, and save on expenses like fuel consumption.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: Organizations can use data to identify trends and enhance logistics by addressing issues like carrier delays or incorrect shipment deliveries.
- Real-Time Shipment Tracking: With real-time tracking of shipments, companies can better calculate delivery times and estimated arrival times.
- Reduced Paperwork: Thanks to the automation of tedious tasks, companies can free up their employees’ time and reduce the risk of human error.
But with so many options available to you, how do you pick the right TMS? Read on to learn how to select the best one for your needs, and what the top TMS options are today.
What to Look for in a Transportation Management System
First, it’s important to consider what your priorities are. When you know what’s most important to your organization, you can choose the TMS that will best suit your needs.
Here are some of the main factors to keep in mind when choosing a TMS:
- Return On Investment (ROI): Consider the total cost of ownership — not just the initial investment, but also ongoing costs like maintenance.
- User-Friendliness: A good TMS will come with customizable dashboards for your convenience, as well as additional resources like tutorials and in-app customer support to make using the software easy.
- Scalability: Choose a TMS system that will scale with your business. You’ll need software that can accommodate changes in your operations, seamlessly integrate with other platforms, and offer robust features to suit your evolving needs.
- Data Security: Security is of the utmost importance, so look for systems that receive regular updates and support. Prioritize features like data encryption and user authentication for extra layers of security.
Top TMS Software for Your Company
Now that you know what to look for in a TMS, here are a few options to choose from. These are some of the most highly-regarded and utilized systems in the industry, so you undoubtedly find a great option for your needs.
Manhattan Associates
Manhattan Associates is an excellent choice for businesses seeking efficient transportation and warehouse management solutions. Its software streamlines the entire supply chain flow, from warehouse to store order. With just one system, companies can have full end-to-end visibility.
Recently recognized as a TMS Gartner Magic Quadrant leader, Manhattan Associates delivers real-time tracking of shipments and to-the-minute reports on traffic and carrier capacity. Its AI-powered analytics assists in route optimization and the minimization of dead space, resulting in reduced freight costs and faster deliveries with more items per shipment. The software performs automatic upgrades every 90 days, keeping logistics providers secure with up-to-date tools.
Manhattan Associates helps major corporations like Giant Eagle consolidate their discrete workflows into a unified platform, resulting in optimized delivery schedules and reduced empty miles. Features like these make Manhattan Associates a leading figure in TMS solutions.
BlueRock
BlueRock is a comprehensive TMS provider that includes 16 solutions — covering everything from early planning to performance management. Companies can pick and choose their desired modules, scaling appropriately without unnecessary software.
BlueRock offers customized features for daily operations, scenario simulations, and long-term strategic decision-making. It also includes specialized packages focused on aspects like contract logistics or last-mile distributions. Finally, BlueRock’s consultancy services provide personalized assistance and market insights to help companies achieve their project goals.
Datatruck
Datatruck offers a customizable dashboard with end-to-end visibility for each order. Key features include communication tools for interacting with customers and partners, a financial management overview, and comprehensive driver profiles.
But what sets Datatruck apart is its integration of AI technology. By partnering with Azure AI, Datatruck has developed TruckGPT, the first generative AI platform for the trucking industry.
SAP
The TMS from SAP is an online platform that allows companies to coordinate freight orders in real time, optimize routing proposals for on-time delivery, and leverage automated tools to eliminate repetitive tasks.
This option is ideal for companies with complex business models (like third-party logistics) that are already working with SAP products like SAP ERP or CRM and are looking to expand their productivity. Thanks to seamless integration with other SAP products, this TMS can optimize resources at a large scale.
Uber Freight
Uber Freight provides advanced planning tools to logistics organizations. Companies can use the Control Tower dashboard to track international shipments across roads, rails, sky, and sea.
The platform also offers insights to compare a company’s performance against industry standards, as well as data-driven recommendations to improve workflows.
Enhance Your Workflows with Transportation Management Systems
Having a robust platform that can intelligently streamline workflows has become crucial for modern businesses to expand. And now, armed with this list of the best transport management systems, you can choose the software that will best suit your needs. With a transportation management system, you’ll be able to automate manual tasks, cut down on freight costs, gain insights into market trends, and make substantial operational improvements.
