What is a Transportation Management System (TMS)?

Transportation Management System (TMS) defined

Small businesses like yours crave efficiency and cost savings, and that's where a Transportation Management System (TMS) comes in.

So, what exactly is a TMS?

Simply put, it's your digital shipping sidekick, streamlining operations and making life easier. A TMS allows shippers to automate the processes they have in place and receive valuable insights to save time and reduce spend on future shipments. Imagine:

  • Comparing rates from top carriers instantly, not wasting hours searching.
  • Booking shipments in seconds, ditching the manual paperwork struggle.
  • Tracking deliveries in real-time, knowing exactly where your precious cargo is.
  • Managing invoices & payments seamlessly, staying on top of finances with ease.
  • Generating reports with powerful insights, making data-driven decisions.

Types of transportation management systems

There are many different transportation management systems (TMS) available for small businesses, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some TMS systems are designed for specific industries, while others are more general-purpose. Some TMS systems are cloud-based, while others are on-premise.

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Benefits of a TMS for small business shippers

  • Slash shipping costs: Find the best deals instantly, negotiate like a pro, and save precious dollars.
  • Boost efficiency: Automate tasks, track shipments effortlessly, and reclaim your valuable time.
  • Gain control & visibility: See your shipping performance in real-time, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions.
  • Scale with ease: As your business grows, your TMS grows with you, adapting to your changing needs.

Is a TMS right for your small business?

If you are a small business that ships products, then a TMS may be a good investment for you. TMS systems can help you save money, improve efficiency, and gain better visibility into your shipping operations.

Here are some things to consider when deciding if a TMS is right for your business:

  • The size and complexity of your shipping operations
  • Your budget
  • Your technical expertise

Common TMS questions and answers

  • What is a TMS’ role in supply chain management? Supply chain management is primarily focused on purchasing, manufacturing, and transport. A TMS assists with the transportation logistics within the supply chain management of an organization. 
  • What is a freight management system? A freight management system (FMS) is a third-party logistics company that provides transportation, warehousing, and fulfillment for their customers. Outsourcing freight is becoming increasingly common and affordable.
  • What does transportation management technology do? TMS technology assists in the planning and coordination of shipping, tracking, and delivering freight from one place to another. It also tracks processes and delivers customized shipping solutions that save time and money. 

Ready to unleash the power of a TMS for your small business?

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