Understanding Freight Management Essentials: What to Look For In A TMS

U.S. e-commerce revenue is about $423.3 billion and is steadily climbing. Whether it\’s full truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), or parcel, carriers are being forced to adjust to changes in the retail industry. Freight management software is just one way freight brokers around the country are staying on schedule. But before you invest in any types of transportation broker software, it\’s important to understand what makes a TMS a high quality and worthwhile investment. Here are just a few of the most essential qualities to look for in a freight management software.

Scalability

First, it\’s important to choose a freight management software that\’s scalable for different vehicles and business sizes. Trucks carry the largest share of freight by value, tons, and ton-miles for shipments moving 750 or fewer miles. Rail, on the other hand, is the dominant mode by tons and ton-miles for shipments moved from 750 to 2,000 miles. If your operations expand, you want to have the peace of mind knowing that your current transportation management software can handle it, and you won\’t need to go looking for a new one. Similarly, if things slow down during the off season, you want to make sure that the way your TMS works is still meeting your needs in an efficient way. Scalability and adaptability are essential when it comes to a high quality transportation management software.

Simplicity

It\’s also important to make sure that the main functions of the transportation management system you choose can be taught easily to all who need to understand it. Some of the more recent TMS systems are designed with far too many unnecessary bells and whistles, which will only overwhelm those who only need to use it for a few basic functions.

In 2013, trucking transported nearly 15 billion tons of cargo. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that by 2040, that number is expected to increase to 18.79 billion tons. Taking the time to inform yourself about what truly makes a high quality transportation management software is the key to finding a provider that meets your needs and keeps you efficient. For more information about finding the right freight management software for your needs, contact 3PL Systems.