Managing today’s complex supply chains is more challenging than ever. From delays and disruptions, to rising costs and customer expectations, small issues can quickly snowball into series problems—and there’s no room for outdated transportation management methods and systems. So, choosing the right Transportation Management System (TMS) isn’t just about logistics. It’s about setting your business up for long-term success.

With such constant challenges, companies need a way to increase visibility, lower costs and eliminate inefficiencies that impact their margins and limit their success. A modern TMS system can be the solution, but only if it’s got the right capabilities. This post will break down the key TMS features and trends that matter now when picking a TMS.

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TMS Features: What to Look for

Selecting the right TMS comes down to more than just ticking off a list of features. It’s about knowing your requirements and finding a platform to give you the visibility, agility, and data to maintain your competitive advantage. The best TMS solutions are built to help you keep up—and stay ahead. With real-time tracking capabilities and AI-powered insights to flexible automation and IoT integration, today’s systems are designed to streamline operations while adapting to your unique business needs. Here are a few capabilities to look for when evaluating your next TMS.

AI-powered Analytics

More than the latest trend or buzzword, AI-powered predictive analytics helps companies mitigate problems before they arise. AI-enabled systems can forecast delays, recommend shipping routes or make suggestions for managing demand and capacity effectively. In short, predictive analytics lets companies take a proactive approach.

Cloud Based

A cloud-based TMS is a must these days. Accessible from anywhere, your team can collaborate whether they’re in the office, at home, or on the road. Plus, they scale easily as your business grows and update automatically with new features and security patches.

IoT Integration

IoT devices provide visibility into a range of shipment data, including GPS location tracking, temperature monitoring sensors, or telematics data from trucks. This transparency allows for faster responses to any issues that may happen.

Global Operations Support

Companies which operate across different countries or use various shipping modes—like truck, rail, air, and ocean—will need a TMS that supports multi-modal and global operations. That includes things like handling customs requirements, working with multiple currencies, and optimizing across all the different ways products are moved. Not every TMS has this capability or does it well, so it’s important to request case studies and references if this is a requirement for your company.

Workflow Automation

With so many repetitive tasks, including selecting carriers, generating shipping documents, or managing invoices, automation is key to freeing up time to focus on strategy and other high-value tasks. Companies should look for a TMS platform that’s flexible enough to fit their unique workflows.

TMS Trends

Sustainability

Customers, investors, and regulators all want more accountability when it comes to environmental impact. Many TMS solutions are now offering tools to track carbon emissions by shipment, suggest greener routes, or even rank carriers based on sustainability metrics. If your company has ESG goals, this is something you’ll want built into a new TMS system.

API Connectivity

Integration capability makes it possible to connect a TMS with other platforms such as an ERP system, warehouse management software or even external systems. APIs make these connections possible, helping to share data in real time and avoid manual data entry or system silos. It’s all about streamlining the flow of information across the supply chain.

User Experience

A new TMS is no use if no one wants, or is able, to use it. Through modern interfaces, customizable dashboards and mobile apps, leading TMS systems offer functionality as well as usability.

Machine Learning

Systems that feature machine learning capabilities can analyze historical data to improve predictions or make suggestions for optimizing routes and improving efficiency.

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Putting It All Together: Choosing the Right TMS

TMS isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best selection should be based on your company’s specific needs, including shipment volume, geographic footprint, industry regulations, and growth plans. Begin by outlining your current state to identify the problems you’re trying to solve. Then evaluate platforms based on how well they address those challenges, keeping both your present and future needs in mind. By involving people from different departments (like operations, finance, and IT) in the selection process, you’ll gain valuable perspectives that can help you make a smarter decision.

Remember that this is a long-term investment. You’re not just buying software—you’re choosing a partner to help you manage one of the most critical parts of your business. So, ask the tough questions, test the platform thoroughly, and don’t settle for less than what you really need.

Need Help Selecting a TMS?

Choosing a TMS that is up to the task of meeting today’s challenges depends on matching your company’s unique needs with system features that will help your business thrive. If you’re ready to make your transportation operation smarter, faster and more resilient, it’s worth connecting with Ultra’s experts to help you through the process. Get started today by requesting your free discovery call.