Overview
Transportation management software (TMS) tools have become an essential part of the trucking industry. They provide companies with the ability to streamline their operations, optimize routes, manage freight, track shipments, and enhance overall efficiency. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be challenging for small and large trucking companies to select the right TMS tool that meets their specific needs. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top TMS tools for owner operators, small – mid size, and large trucking companies, along with assessing their pros and cons, and pricing. Note: Certain providers may have solutions that satisfy a wider range of trucking companies.
| Owner Operators | Small – Mid-Size Fleets | Large Fleets |
| • TruckBytes • TruckLogics • Load Pilot • Tailwind Transportation Software • AscendTMS | • EKA Omni-TMS • AscendTMS • TruckLogics • Load Pilot • Tailwind Transportation Software • Aljex | • Mercury Gate • McLeod Software • BlueJay Solutions • JDA Transportation Management • Oracle Transportation Management • SAP Transportation Management |
TMS Solutions For Owner Operators
TruckBytes
TruckBytes TMS is a software solution that offers a comprehensive set of features specifically designed for owner-operators, small trucking companies, and freight brokers. Here are the pros, cons, pricing, and a link to TruckBytes TMS:
Pros:
- User-friendly interface: The software interface is easy to use and navigate, even for those who are not tech-savvy.
- Affordable pricing: The pricing structure is very affordable, with different plans to suit different budgets.
- Mobile app: The mobile app enables drivers to manage their loads on-the-go, which is a significant benefit for those on the road.
- Integrations: The software integrates with popular third-party applications, such as QuickBooks, for accounting and invoicing.
- Load tracking: The software provides real-time load tracking, which is important for maintaining visibility of loads and ensuring timely deliveries.
Cons:
- Limited features: The software is not as comprehensive as some of the larger TMS solutions, which may not be suitable for larger trucking companies or those with more complex operations.
- Limited customization: The software does not offer as many customization options as some of the larger TMS solutions, which may not be suitable for companies with specific requirements.
Pricing:
TruckBytes TMS offers a free plan with limited features. The Basic plan costs $15 per month and includes load management, invoicing, and accounting features. The Pro plan costs $25 per month and includes advanced load tracking, dispatching, and mobile app features. The Broker plan costs $40 per month and includes broker-specific features such as carrier management and commission tracking.
Link: https://www.truckbytes.com/
TruckLogics
TruckLogics is an all-in-one TMS solution designed for small to mid-sized trucking companies. The platform offers features such as load tracking, dispatch management, invoicing, accounting, and document management. TruckLogics also offers integration with ELD devices, QuickBooks, and other third-party systems. One of the biggest benefits of using TruckLogics is the affordable pricing, starting at just $35/month.
Pros:
- Easy to use and navigate.
- Affordable pricing.
- Offers a mobile app for drivers.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Limited features compared to some other TMS solutions.
- Some users have reported occasional glitches.
Pricing: Starting at $35/month
Website: https://www.trucklogics.com/
LoadPilot
LoadPilot: LoadPilot is a TMS tool that is suitable for small and mid-sized trucking companies that require a simple, easy-to-use, and affordable solution. It offers load management, dispatching, and invoicing features, and document management. LoadPilot is cloud based and also offers integration with ELD devices and accounting systems. One of the biggest benefits of using LoadPilot is the affordable pricing, starting at just $24.95/month.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing.
- Offers a mobile app for drivers.
- Easy to use and navigate.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Limited features compared to some other TMS solutions.
Pricing: Starting at $24.95/month
Website: https://www.loadpilot.com/
Tailwind Transportation Software
Tailwind Transportation Software: Tailwind Transportation Software is a cloud-based TMS solution designed specifically for smaller trucking companies that require a comprehensive set of features at an affordable price. It offers load management, dispatching, invoicing, and accounting, and documentation features that are easy to use and customizable. Tailwind also offers integration with ELD devices, accounting systems, and other third-party systems. One of the biggest benefits of using Tailwind is the affordable pricing, starting at just $69/month.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing.
- Offers a mobile app for drivers.
- Excellent customer support.
- Easy to use and navigate.
Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Limited features compared to some other TMS solutions.
Pricing: Starting at $69/month
Website: https://www.tailwindtransportationsoftware.com/
AscendTMS
AscendTMS: AscendTMS is a cloud-based TMS tool that is suitable for small and mid-sized trucking companies that require a comprehensive set of features at an affordable price. AscendTMS offers features such as load management, dispatch management, routing optimization, and document management–all with an intuitive user interface, making it easy to use and navigate. The platform also offers integration with ELD devices, accounting systems, and other third-party systems. The software offers a free version, making it an attractive option for small businesses.
Pros:
- Offers a free version.
- Intuitive user interface.
- Offers a mobile app for drivers.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Some users have reported occasional glitches.
- Limited customization options.
Pricing: Starting at $69/month (free trial available)
Website: https://www.ascendtms.com/
TMS Solutions For Small-Mid Size Fleets
EKA Omni-TMS
EKA Omni-TMS: EKA Omni-TMS is a cloud-based TMS tool that is suitable for small and mid-sized trucking companies that require basic features at an affordable price. It offers load management, dispatching, invoicing, and accounting features, as well as a mobile app for drivers, but with limited customization options. EKA Omni-TMS provides real-time tracking and monitoring of shipments, which helps to increase visibility and improve customer service. The tool is user-friendly and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- User-friendly interface
- Integrates with popular accounting software
- Offers a mobile app for drivers
- Provides real-time tracking and monitoring of shipments
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- May not be suitable for large fleets
- Customer support may not be available 24/7
Pricing:
EKA Omni-TMS offers a free trial and paid plans starting at $149/month for up to 5 users.
Website: https://eka-beacon.com/omni-tms/
AscendTMS
AscendTMS: AscendTMS is a cloud-based TMS tool that is suitable for small and mid-sized trucking companies that require a comprehensive set of features at an affordable price. AscendTMS offers features such as load management, dispatch management, routing optimization, and document management–all with an intuitive user interface, making it easy to use and navigate. The platform also offers integration with ELD devices, accounting systems, and other third-party systems. The software offers a free version, making it an attractive option for small businesses.
Pros:
- Offers a free version.
- Intuitive user interface.
- Offers a mobile app for drivers.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Some users have reported occasional glitches.
- Limited customization options.
Pricing: Starting at $69/month
Website: https://www.ascendtms.com/
TruckLogics
TruckLogics is an all-in-one TMS solution designed for small to mid-sized trucking companies. The platform offers features such as load tracking, dispatch management, invoicing, accounting, and document management. TruckLogics also offers integration with ELD devices, QuickBooks, and other third-party systems. One of the biggest benefits of using TruckLogics is the affordable pricing, starting at just $35/month.
Pros:
- Easy to use and navigate.
- Affordable pricing.
- Offers a mobile app for drivers.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Limited features compared to some other TMS solutions.
- Some users have reported occasional glitches.
Pricing: Starting at $35/month
Website: https://www.trucklogics.com/
LoadPilot
LoadPilot: LoadPilot is a TMS tool that is suitable for small and mid-sized trucking companies that require a simple, easy-to-use, and affordable solution. It offers load management, dispatching, and invoicing features, and document management. LoadPilot is cloud based and also offers integration with ELD devices and accounting systems. One of the biggest benefits of using LoadPilot is the affordable pricing, starting at just $24.95/month.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing.
- Offers a mobile app for drivers.
- Easy to use and navigate.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Limited features compared to some other TMS solutions.
Pricing: Starting at $24.95/month
Website: https://www.loadpilot.com/
Tailwind Transportation Software
Tailwind Transportation Software: Tailwind Transportation Software is a cloud-based TMS solution designed specifically for smaller trucking companies that require a comprehensive set of features at an affordable price. It offers load management, dispatching, invoicing, and accounting, and documentation features that are easy to use and customizable. Tailwind also offers integration with ELD devices, accounting systems, and other third-party systems. One of the biggest benefits of using Tailwind is the affordable pricing, starting at just $69/month.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing.
- Offers a mobile app for drivers.
- Excellent customer support.
- Easy to use and navigate.
Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Limited features compared to some other TMS solutions.
Pricing: Starting at $69/month
Website: https://www.tailwindtransportationsoftware.com/
Aljex
Aljex: Aljex is a cloud-based TMS tool that is suitable for medium to large trucking companies with complex operations. It offers load planning, dispatching, billing, and advanced customization options, but with higher pricing compared to other TMS tools. The platform offers features such as load management and other complex and customizable tools.
Pros:
- Robust features, including load planning, dispatching, and billing
- Advanced customization options
- Integrates with various third-party applications
- Offers training and support resources
Cons:
- Expensive pricing compared to other TMS tools
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Customer support may not be available 24/7
Pricing:
Aljex TMS offers custom pricing based on the needs of the trucking company.
Website: https://www.aljex.com/
TMS Solutions For Large Fleets
If you’re a large trucking company or fleet owner, the following tools should be considered for their increased customization and customer service.
McLeod
McLeod Software is a comprehensive transportation management system (TMS) solution that offers a range of features including order entry, dispatch, billing, driver management, and document management. It is designed for transportation companies of all sizes and can be customized to fit the specific needs of a business.
Pros:
- Comprehensive solution for transportation management
- Offers a range of features including order entry, dispatch, billing, driver management, and document management
- Can be customized to fit the specific needs of a business
- Offers a mobile application for drivers
- Offers integrations with other third-party software
Cons:
- Can be complex and difficult to navigate
- Requires extensive implementation and training
- High cost
Pricing: Custom pricing. Contact McLeod Software for a quote.
Website: https://www.mcleodsoftware.com/
MercuryGate
Summary: MercuryGate is a comprehensive solution for transportation management that offers features such as order management, transportation planning, and freight settlement. It also offers customizable workflows and automation capabilities.
Pros:
- Comprehensive solution for transportation management
- Offers features such as order management, transportation planning, and freight settlement
- Offers customizable workflows and automation capabilities
Cons:
- Interface can be complex and difficult to navigate
- Limited training resources
- High cost
Pricing: Custom pricing. Contact MercuryGate for a quote.
Website: https://mercurygate.com/solutions/transportation-management-system/
BluJay Solutions
Summary: BluJay Solutions offers a range of features, including transportation planning, execution, and settlement. It also offers advanced analytics and reporting capabilities and integration with other supply chain management solutions.
Pros:
- Offers a range of features, including transportation planning, execution, and settlement
- Offers advanced analytics and reporting capabilities
- Offers integration with other supply chain management solutions
Cons:
- Pricing is not transparent and can be high
- Implementation process can be complex and time-consuming
Pricing: Custom pricing. Contact BluJay Solutions for a quote.
Website: https://www.blujaysolutions.com/solutions/transportation-management/
JDA Transportation Management
Summary: JDA Transportation Management is a comprehensive solution for transportation management that offers advanced optimization and planning features. It also offers integrations with other supply chain management solutions.
Pros:
- Comprehensive solution for transportation management
- Offers advanced optimization and planning features
- Offers integrations with other supply chain management solutions
Cons:
- Can be complex and difficult to navigate
- Requires extensive implementation and training
- High cost
Pricing: Custom pricing. Contact JDA Software for a quote.
Website: https://www.blueyonder.com/solutions/transportation-management
Oracle Transportation Management (OTM)
Summary: Oracle Transportation Management is a comprehensive solution that can handle large-scale logistics operations. It offers a range of functionalities such as order management, transportation planning, freight settlement, and carrier management.
Pros:
- Comprehensive solution that can handle large-scale logistics operations
- Offers a range of functionalities such as order management, transportation planning, freight settlement, and carrier management
- Highly configurable and customizable to fit the specific needs of a business
Cons:
- Can be complex and difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with the software
- May require additional training for users to fully utilize the system
- High cost
Pricing: Custom pricing. Contact Oracle for a quote.
Website: https://www.oracle.com/industries/logistics/products/transportation-management/
SAP Transportation Management
Summary: SAP Transportation Management offers a comprehensive solution for transportation management that offers features such as order management, transportation planning, and freight settlement. It also offers integrations with other SAP solutions.
Pros:
- Offers a comprehensive solution for transportation management
- Offers features such as order management, transportation planning, and freight settlement
- Offers integrations with other SAP solutions
Cons:
- Can be complex and difficult to navigate
- High cost
- Implementation can be complex and time-consuming
Pricing: Custom pricing. Contact SAP for a quote.
Website: https://www.sap.com/products/transportation-management.html
Summary
Ultimately, the choice of TMS provider will depend on the specific needs of the trucking company, such as the size of the fleet, the complexity of operations, and the budget available. Some of these providers will be off-the-shelf solutions, some will provide pre-built modular functionality, and some will work with you to produce custom solutions and integrations into your existing systems such as Billing or ELD tracking. Overall, it is important to assess all your options by evaluating each provider’s features, pricing, and customer support before choosing the right TMS to fit your fleet operations’ unique needs.
If you’re interested in learning more or are having difficulty getting in touch with any of these providers, reach out to us here and we’ll help connect you.