If you own or operate a business that ships products, you know how important it is to have a reliable transportation management system in place. A TMS can help you manage your shipping operations, optimize your routes, and reduce costs.
In this blog post, we’ll answer some common questions about TMS, including what it is, how it works, the different types of TMS available, and how to choose the right one for your business. We’ll also touch on the cost of TMS and how to install and use it. Finally, we’ll offer some tips for getting the most out of your TMS.
What Is TMS?
Transportation management software is a type of software that helps businesses plan, execute, and track their shipping operations. A good TMS can help businesses save money by optimizing routes and improving efficiencies. It can also help businesses ship their products faster and with greater accuracy.
How Does TMS Work?
It typically consists of two main components: a web-based application and a mobile application. The web-based application is used by dispatch planners to plan and execute shipping operations. The mobile application is used by drivers to track their location and receive route information.
The Different Types of TMS
There are three main types of software: on-premise, cloud-based, and hybrid.
- On-premise TMS is installed on a company’s own servers. This type of TMS offers the most customization options but requires more upkeep than other types of solutions.
- Cloud-based TMS is hosted on a remote server and accessed via the internet. This type of TMS is typically easier to set up and maintain than on-premise solutions but offers fewer customization options.
- Hybrid TMS combines the best features of on-premise and cloud-oriented solutions. Hybrid solutions are usually more expensive than other types of TMS but offer the greatest flexibility in terms of customization and scalability.
Choosing the Right Type of Software for Your Business
There are several factors to consider when choosing a system for your business, including the size of your business, your budget, your IT infrastructure, and your shipping needs.
If you’re not sure which type of software is right for your business, we recommend talking to a transportation management software expert who can help you assess your needs and make a recommendation.
The Cost of This Software
The cost varies depending on the type of solution you choose (on-premise, cloud-based, or hybrid), the features you need, the number of users you have, and other factors.
In general, on-premise solutions tend to be more expensive than cloud-based or hybrid solutions because they require more upfront investment in hardware and IT infrastructure. That said, on-premise solutions often provide more value in the long run because they offer greater flexibility in terms of customization and scalability.
Installing & Using The Software
Once you’ve selected the system that’s right for your business, you’ll need to install it on your servers (if you’re using an on-premise solution) or sign up for an account (if you’re using a cloud-based solution). Once the software is up and running, you’ll need to train your employees on how to use it effectively.
Luckily, most systems are relatively user-friendly and come with helpful tutorials or customer support staff who can assist with any questions you may have along the way.
So, this is how you can get the most out of TMS. We hope this guide has helped clarify what a TMS is, how it works, and the different types of TMS available. Good luck finding the right solution for your business.
Conclusion:
It can save businesses time and money by optimizing routes and improving efficiencies. When choosing a transportation management system for your business, consider these factors.
