Transportation management is an integral piece of any successful supply chain. The speed and accuracy of customer deliveries are vital to maintaining happy clients and a good reputation in your industry. While it may seem as simple as getting a package from point A to point B, an effective cloud TMS involves much more.

This article explores the best cloud transport management systems, delving into their features, benefits, and unique selling points to help you optimize your operations and meet ever-growing customer demand.

Compare Top TMS Software Leaders

Article Roadmap

• The Best Cloud Transportation Management Software
  • MercuryGate
  • Transplace
  • SAP Transportation Management
  • Kuebix
  • Manhattan TMS
• What Is a Transportation Management System?
• Cloud-Based vs. On-Premise Deployment
• Costs and Pricing Models
• Next Steps

The Best Cloud Transportation Management Software

Our research team dove head-first into the cloud-based TMS market and measured the competition. These five solutions emerged as the top choices.

MercuryGate

MercuryGate is a cloud TMS platform for logistics providers, shippers, freight forwarders and domestic freight brokers. It supports all modes of transport, including parcel, less-than-truckload truckload, air, ocean, rail and intermodal.

A customer portal allows users to access logistics information, create quotes and track shipment progress. This portal also gives customers a tower view of freight activity while delivering automated reports on essential metrics.

MercuryGate also provides a visual dashboard with reports on the status of pending, picked-up, in-transit and delivered products. Users can view handy graphs that reveal load counts by origin and destination and a summary of quotes, allowing them to approve or reject quotes quickly.

Furthermore, the platform automates the process of matching carrier capacity and loads, allowing for more efficient bidding and eliminating any uncertainty about the cargo and transportation before assigning a carrier to the shipment.

Order management is made easy with MercuryGate.

Highest Rated Modules According to Our Data

• Capture E-Signature — 100
• Automated Bid Creation — 100
• Contract Creation — 100
• Carrier Rate and Comparison — 100
• Loss and Damage Claims — 100

Top Benefits

• Use the Cloud: MercuryGate is a cloud-based solution that simplifies upgrading and scaling. Keep working without taking long breaks to integrate new software upgrades and keep your critical paperwork safe in the cloud.
• Set up Multimodal Transportation: The solution can efficiently control any transportation method. This management software can handle parcel, truckload, train, air and intermodal transportation.
• Gain Greater Visibility: Thanks to continually updated information, clients can track every crucial aspect of their shipments down to the container and SKU level. Managers make better decisions when they have more information at their disposal.
• Maintain Compliance: MercuryGate supports multi-leg and multimodal shipments while maintaining compliance with global trade regulations. Access to numerous languages, currencies and units of measurement supports smooth operations despite common hurdles between nations.
• Scale Up: Supply networks continually expand to satisfy rising customer demand. This TMS solution grows with your business, keeping you competitive in a dynamic global transportation environment.

Primary Features

• 3PL Support: While MercuryGate is suited for most businesses, it contains functionality to assist 3PL providers in running their operations. A suite of 3PL-enabled applications allows you to manage numerous transportation modalities for multiple clients.
• Routing: Find the best transit routes to save time and money and impress customers. Optimized route finding saves fuel and gets items to customers as rapidly as possible.
• Customer Assistance: Access to cloud TMS features delivers complete insight into transportation processes. Clients can alleviate their concerns by receiving up-to-date information on where their goods are and when they’ll arrive.
• Scheduling: Use the scheduling tool to stay on top of your shipments and ensure your products are on the move at the proper moment. Match the right driver or pilot to your cargo and deliver your goods on time.
• Billing and invoicing: Reduce human error linked to manual data entry by automating time-consuming billing processes. MercuryGate’s billing features allow you to settle commissions, bills and audit expenses.

Features Not Fully Supported According to Our Data

• In-App Messaging for Peer Communication — Not Supported
• Offline Access — Not Supported
• National Motor Freight Classification Compliance — Not Supported
• Order Overview Dashboard — Not Supported
• “What If” Scenario for Bid Analysis — Not Supported

Compare Top TMS Software Leaders

Transplace

Transplace is a leading cloud-based TMS platform that provides organizations with cutting-edge transport management solutions. This comprehensive system combines logistics technology and transportation management services to offer numerous services, including strategic capacity services, logistics, brokerage, intermodal solutions and freight consolidation.

Real-time visibility and predictive analytics let businesses improve their transportation operations and supply chains. It promotes the efficient management of all transportation activities across the whole supply chain as a unified platform.

Transplace’s load board helps you streamline your freight capacity.

Highest Rated Modules According to Our Data

• Capture E-Signature — 100
• In-App Messaging for Peer Communication — 100
• Performance Analysis Report — 100
• Carrier Rate and Comparison — 100
• Multimodal Rate Evaluation — 100

Top Benefits

• Reduce Administrative Labor and Expenses: By automating the consolidation process, shipment generation and tendering, you can free up time for other critical duties and planning.
• Cut Order Costs: Reduce order costs for all expedited shipments by using platform-directed exception handling and improved planning ahead of time.
• Enhance Carrier Selection: Save money and time by automating the selection of suitable carriers, shipping routes and modes.
• Gain Real-Time Visibility: Cloud TMS dashboards display real-time logistics and fleet availability visibility. This capacity helps you predict and detect any issues to resolve immediately.
• Improve Decision-Making: Data insights, advanced analytics and customized reporting tools assist you in making better business decisions.

Primary Features

• Engineering and Consulting: It includes asset management, supply chain management, mode and carrier optimization, sourcing and procurement, network design, and dedicated fleet assessment modules.
• Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC): The module ensures conformity with Federal Maritime Commission requirements. Use the advantage of a contracted carrier base to negotiate the best carrier rates with rail, ocean and airliners.
• Data Insights: The solution offers in-depth information for market intelligence and benchmarking. Utilize specialized reporting and benchmarking tools to analyze service and spending parameters.
• Advanced Technology and TMS: Get assistance with TMS planning, execution, settlement and other critical aspects. It provides performance optimization and management for all modes, including parcel, LTL, and truckload. The features are global command post, service forecasting and freight allocation modules.
• Global Transportation Management: It provides carrier management, freight claims, audits and payment services. The solution includes client network cooperation as well as business process outsourcing.

Limitations

• Slow resolution of technical issues.
• Slow to make changes in reporting.
• It doesn’t offer exhaustive forecasting and predictive analytics capabilities.

Features Not Fully Supported According to Our Data

• Offline Access — Not Supported
• Create Shipment Form — Supported With Custom Development
• Driver Compliance — Not Supported
• Route Simulation — Not Supported
• Volume Analysis Report — Not Supported
• Order Pickup Calendar View — Not Supported

Compare Top TMS Software Leaders

SAP Transportation Management

SAP Transportation Management is part of SAP’s extensive suite. This cloud TMS solution provides robust global planning, execution, freight payment and business process automation.

The system’s cloud-based architecture provides unrivaled accessibility, scalability and security, removing the large-scale on-premise IT infrastructure requirement. Furthermore, it can integrate with other SAP modules to provide a unified user experience across many verticals.

Monitor vital transportation KPIs with SAP TMS.

Highest Rated Modules According to Our Data

• Capture E-Signature — 100
• Carrier Portal — 100
• Delivery ETA — 100
• Planning Board for Order Management — 100
• Contract Creation — 100

Top Benefits

• Boost Productivity: SAP TMS includes relevant process automation that can handle transportation needs while freeing up staff for more critical activities.
• Strengthen Visibility: Fleet tracking and tracing capabilities enable users to keep an eye on the status of their shipments at all times. This cloud TMS solution also includes cross-system document flow and data-driven fee negotiation.
• Standardize Logistics: You can easily integrate, install and access centralized data and rate management capabilities via a shared platform.
• Improve Cash Flow: Using appropriate methods to settle costs helps prevent overcharges and invoicing problems. SAP TMS includes solutions for automating accrual generation, charge tracking and auditing.
• Enhance Decision-Making: SAP TMS’s agile reporting features enable users to assess freight costs and transportation intelligence. Graphical representations make this information consumable, and interactive dashboards provide access to vital data.

Primary Features

• Freight Control: SAP TMS includes tools that can reduce transportation control method expenses while evaluating shipper and trade agreement adherence.
• Order Management: Insight into shipping and order control enhances customer satisfaction and reduces costs linked to transportation control. The transportation order module enhances order and procedure control effectiveness while using rule-based routing.
• Data Analysis: Analytical tools enable SAP TMS to offer real-time data-based information to assist in optimizing and expediting planning procedures. With tools to enhance cooperation with business partners while also decreasing data complexity, this solution helps maintain competitiveness.
• Transportation Control: Streamlined transportation control methods enable logistics operations to move more swiftly, creating a more receptive supply chain. Adaptable transportation procedures additionally cut costs while boosting efficiency.
• Shipping Expenses: Improve transparency in your transportation expenditure and invoicing. Automated calculations help reduce human errors, and customers can integrate their transportation control information with their billing information.

Features Not Fully Supported According to Our Data

• Carrier Compliance — Not Supported
• Ocean Freight — Supported With Additional Modules
• Document Management — Not Supported
• Offline Access — Not Supported
• Performance Analysis Report — Not Supported

Compare Top TMS Software Leaders

Kuebix

A flexible cloud transportation management system, Kuebix serves organizations of all sizes and encompasses multiple modes of transportation. At its core, it streamlines the carrier selection process by enabling businesses to compare rates from several carriers.

The platform automates the rest of the shipping process after choosing a carrier with end-to-end capabilities, including tracking, automated invoice audits, exception management and more. Operations on a wide range of transport platforms, including LTL, LCL, intermodal and heavyweight air, are enabled for outbound and inbound logistics.

Kuebix also stands out for its robust carrier relationship management features, which control users’ contacts with carriers. Additionally, the platform excels in managing shipments, improving the effectiveness of the shipping process from beginning to end.

Manage carrier weights and rates on the Kuebix dashboard.

Highest Rated Modules According to Our Data

• Capture E-Signature — 100
• Carrier Performance Scorecards — 100
• Freight Audit Payment (FAP) — 100
• Loss and Damage Claims — 100
• Load Planning — 100

Top Benefits

• Increase Freight Savings: To reduce costs and save money on shipments, compare prices side by side with the alternatives. Always send goods from the warehouse to the client using the most economical method.
• Use Multimodal Transportation: Ship goods with any mode of transportation. The platform supports all shipping forms, including air, sea and land.
• Boost Process Speeds: Deployment is swift compared to other platforms that typically take years to complete.
• Improve Collaboration: Maintain communication with suppliers and customers while providing a location to transact business and upload essential paperwork.
• Integrate Easily: This cloud TMS maintains the integrity of the user’s selected warehouse management and ERP systems while seamlessly integrating with all internal and external systems.

Primary Features

• Rate Negotiation: Explore shipping options to find the best service levels and shipment pricing. To save money, compare and check rates for any method of transportation.
• Spot Rates and Services: Request immediate rates for large amounts of freight to save money. This cloud transportation management software connects you to a large and easily accessible shipping community to get the best pricing for freight volumes and service levels.
• Bookings: Shipments can be reserved immediately through the system. After connecting with a carrier, you may reserve and prepare shipments with a few clicks.
• Shipment Tracking: Provide stakeholders with complete real-time visibility into vital shipments. Customers can see where their goods are and the arrival times, improving their satisfaction.

Limitations

• Tracking shipment reports is time-consuming and difficult.
• Booking shipments can be tricky.

Features Not Fully Supported According to Our Data

• Driver Compliance — Not Supported
• Trade Compliance — Not Supported
• Configure Business Rules and Constraints for Awarding — Not Supported
• Contract Creation — Supported With Additional Modules
• “What If” Scenario for Bid Analysis — Not Supported

Compare Top TMS Software Leaders

Manhattan TMS

Manhattan TMS is a premier cloud-based transport management system that aims to improve and streamline transportation operations. Manhattan Associates, a company with major experience in cloud supply chain and omnichannel commerce technology, created this platform.

It focuses on optimization and cost-effectiveness for enterprises of all sizes. It offers complete capacity, modes of route planning and effective solutions for both inbound and outgoing transportation.

This cloud transportation management solution provides precise shipment tracking, carrier communication interfaces, quick freight bill payment and comprehensive scenario analysis for strategic network architecture.

Its adaptive cloud forecasting technology, in particular, combines real-time tracking, predictive algorithms and machine learning to give enterprises greater visibility and control over their operations.

Track all your shipments on the Manhattan dashboard.

Highest Rated Modules According to Our Data

• Capture E-Signature — 100
• Customizable Reports — 100
• Automated Bid Creation — 100
• “What If” Scenario for Bid Analysis — 100
• Carrier Compliance — 100

Top Benefits

• Minimize Shipping Costs: Improved transportation planning and execution, an efficient fleet, and structured warehouse management help shippers cut shipping costs.
• Improve Operational Transparency: This cloud transportation management suite can strategically overcome obstacles shippers commonly face in ERP systems. Higher transparency in shipping management is possible through dynamic management, control and visibility.
• Manage Dedicated and Private Fleets: Operators who employ external or internal carrier services can manage their fleets more effectively with end-to-end transportation solutions.
• Automate Appointment Scheduling: The platform allows shipment carriers to schedule their delivery and shipment pickup appointments based on capacity and load-type parameters. Automation reduces unnecessary time waste and promotes error-free communication.

Primary Features

• Transportation Procurement: The system aids in logistics and allows users to find contracts, handle bids and automate purchasing, simplifying the bidding process.
• Fleet Management: Manhattan TMS enhances fleet efficiency through features focused on safety and adherence to rules. It also utilizes machine learning and analytics to support improved decision-making.
• Carrier Management: It offers a complete range of solutions that maximize driver and customer satisfaction while ensuring asset use and operational expenses are minimal.
• Audit, Invoices and Claims: This cloud transportation management tool maximizes savings by transforming automated sources and diverse manual data into a single database for freight invoices.
• Shipping Planning and Execution: Manhattan Associates’ transportation management suite offers robust, linkable and expandable solutions to aid in planning, optimizing and carrying out operations.

Features Not Fully Supported According to Our Data

• AI-Based Vehicle Allotment — Not Supported
• Loss and Damage Claims — Not Supported
• Carrier Performance Scorecards — Not Supported
• Carrier Rate and Comparison — Not Supported
• View Credit Request — Not Supported

Compare Top TMS Software Leaders

What Is a Transportation Management System?

A transportation management system is the logistical arm of supply chain management that focuses on the automated control of physical goods movement. This system is crucial for various industries, including logistics firms, manufacturers, merchants, government agencies and small businesses. A TMS’s primary responsibilities include:

• Locating rates for orders
• Optimizing delivery routes
• Booking them for delivery
• Tracking things in transit.

A top-notch TMS provides fleet management, real-time tracking and shipment planning in advance. One of the most essential advantages of a TMS is excellent data visibility. This feature enables users to employ business intelligence and analytics tools to gain actionable insights into key indicators.

As you already know, more goes into a transportation business than moving a box from a warehouse to an office. Managing this without software is a daunting task, not to mention finding the time to improve processes and cut costs.

Manually seeking out carriers, keeping accurate accounting records, figuring out the best pallet layout for an optimized shipment and estimating freight costs without the help of a software solution is simply not necessary with the advances of today’s business software.

TMS solutions automate the more time-consuming and tedious processes so employees can focus on what humans do best — planning for the future and managing.
So, it should be pretty evident by now how one of these systems can help, but should you go with cloud transportation management or on-premise?

Cloud-Based vs. On-Premise Deployment

Despite some debate about the superior deployment method, cloud-based deployments will soon become the go-to strategy for many businesses. Time, money and non-scalability make the world of transportation management go round, and on-premise deployments are costly in both areas. Unsurprisingly, 85% of small and medium business owners admit that cloud solutions enable their businesses to scale and grow faster.

But, there are still many pros and cons of each deployment strategy to consider.

On-Premise

Pros

While on-premise deployments may be losing popularity, there are still some benefits to adopting this style:

• Everything is hosted onsite
• A high degree of control is available
• It offers more robust security against online threats
• Depending on the industry, this deployment method may be the only choice

Cons

Knowing where and how your data moves at all times can provide some comfort to those with sensitive data. However, the downsides to this deployment style can be enough to frighten those deciding between this method or the cloud:

• Time-intensive integration that has to be performed in-house by skilled labor
• High sunk costs due to complete license purchases
• Maintenance and upgrades are costly and time-consuming

Cloud-Based

Pros

Cloud-based deployment strategies come with some hard-to-ignore benefits:

• Cheap cost of entry thanks to subscription-based payment models
• Nearly unlimited storage capabilities (although, be aware of hidden fees)
• Real-time maintenance and upgrades that do not require a lengthy system shutdown
• Files are easily backed up and recalled
• Ease of access with mobile devices
• Users can handpick integrations and customize the software to fit unique requirements
• Quick deployment

Cons

As you can see, choosing cloud transportation management over an on-premise competitor has many advantages. However, while the cheaper cost of entry makes these solutions prime candidates for smaller businesses, it’s still important to be aware of the downsides.

• Relies on an internet connection
• Though these solutions are known to be very secure, they are still stored in a third-party environment that isn’t under your control
• More concerns involving data and privacy
• Could be vulnerable to external attacks

Compare Top TMS Software Leaders

Costs and Pricing Models

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge in favor of cloud transportation management tools. But how much should you invest? We’ve laid out the price of different subscription plans.

Cloud-based TMS software offers various pricing models, including:

1. Subscription-Based Pricing: This involves paying a monthly or yearly fee to access the software, with costs depending on the number of users, integrations and other size-related attributes. This plan can range from around $100 monthly to tens of thousands yearly.
2. Per-Transaction Pricing: In this model, the cost is determined by the number of transactions (such as booked freight loads) made within the system. As the transaction volume increases, the cost per transaction typically decreases. This model typically costs between $1 to $4 per freight load booked in the system.
3. One-Time License: This model requires a single payment for the software license and an annual maintenance fee ranging from 15% to 20% of the license cost. The price can range from $10,000 to $250,000 for the license, plus an annual maintenance fee.

A transactional approach may be the best option for organizations with fluctuating transportation volumes because you only pay for what you use.

Furthermore, it’s critical to consider the total cost of ownership and the software price. Consider the cost of implementation, training and any prospective updates or upgrades.

Consider the potential return on investment regarding efficiency and cost-savings in your transportation operations.

Finally, the appropriate pricing model for cloud transportation management software depends on the specific company’s needs, size and operation scale.
Careful evaluation and planning can yield significant long-term advantages and cost savings.

Use our free requirements template to easily choose and prioritize what features you need in a new system so you don’t waste time researching products that aren’t a good fit.

Compare Top TMS Software Leaders

Next Steps

Transportation management systems are vital to operations looking to keep up with today’s changing global market. We have a variety of articles discussing the ins and outs of transportation management; feel free to take a look! Grab our free comparison report to explore solutions with features like carrier selection, route optimization, and AI vehicle allotment.

How has cloud-based transportation management helped your business stay competitive? Let us know with a comment below!