Last Reviewed: November 12th, 2024

Best Freight Broker Software Of 2024

What is Freight Broker Software?

Freight Broker Software is designed to streamline the complex logistics in hauling. It seeks to solve common problems such as unorganized cargo bookings, slow-paced documentation, and inefficient route planning. The significance of this tool lies in its ability to automate operations, enhancing efficiency and eliminating late deliveries and lost cargo. Core functionalities include load and route management, real-time tracking, and documentation handling. IoT integration for real-time tracking is a promising aspect for future development. Freight brokers, logistics agencies, and haulage companies form the primary cohort of beneficiaries. However, technical glitches and training requirements may pose limitations. In essence, Freight Broker Software is effectively a boon to the hauling industry, with automated operations, on-time deliveries, and no lost cargo. Despite potential technical and training challenges, the efficiency and transparency provided by this software unequivocally offer a compelling value proposition to any logistics-centric endeavor.

What Are The Key Benefits of Freight Broker Software?

  • Automates hauling operations
  • Prevents cargo loss
  • Ensures on-time delivery
  • Streamlines load management
  • Simplifies route planning
  • Produces documentation swiftly
  • Enables real-time tracking
  • Improves customer satisfaction
  • Saves operational costs
  • Enhances business scalability
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Overall

Based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub for 68 solutions, we determined the following solutions are the best Freight Broker Software overall:

Start Price
$10,000
Annually
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Cloud On-Premise
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Why We Picked MercuryGate

MercuryGate has attracted a range of users, from small businesses to large enterprises, each with unique needs and expectations. The platform's user-friendly interface has consistently been lauded, making it accessible even for those with limited technical expertise. This ease of use translates into tangible efficiency gains, as users report spending less time on administrative tasks and more time focusing on core business activities.

My firsthand experience with the platform involved a complex, multi-leg shipment of industrial pipes from China to a remote rig site in North Dakota. This scenario tested MercuryGate's capabilities across multiple transportation modes, including trucks, ocean freight and rail. The TMS efficiently handled the complexities of this shipment, showcasing its potential for cost savings and operational efficiency.

During execution, the load board provided real-time visibility into all 17 loads involved in the shipment. This centralized information hub allowed me to proactively manage the shipment, identify potential bottlenecks and make informed decisions. The 'next recommended activity' feature was particularly useful in streamlining operations and ensuring timely execution.

Furthermore, MercuryGate's carrier and rate selection capabilities stood out. The platform provided a detailed overview of available carriers and rates, empowering me to make informed decisions based on cost, transit time, carrier reliability and contractual agreements.

In addition to these core functionalities, MercuryGate offers industry-specific features, 3PL support, a control tower for enhanced visibility, exception management for proactive issue resolution, scheduling capabilities, and robust reporting and analytics tools.

Ultimately, MercuryGate is best suited for businesses seeking a reliable and easy-to-use transportation and logistics management solution that can accommodate a wide range of needs. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive features make it an ideal choice for those looking to streamline their operations and improve efficiency without the need for extensive customization.

Pros & Cons

  • Cost Savings: These systems can optimize routing and carrier selection, leading to reduced fuel expenses and improved delivery efficiency, resulting in significant cost savings for businesses.
  • Real-Time Visibility: TMS solutions provide GPS integration and real-time tracking capabilities for monitoring shipments and receiving timely updates, enhancing customer service.
  • Greater Efficiency: A TMS can automate load planning, shipment tracking, and documentation management, reducing manual work and errors to speed up delivery times and improve operational efficiency.
  • High Implementation Costs: Buying and implementing a TMS can be costly, including expenses for software and hardware and potential disruptions during the shift from legacy systems.
  • Complex Implementation Process: Poor planning or lack of standardization can lead to failed performances. If the chosen TMS doesn’t align with the company’s needs, it can create further inefficiencies.
  • Limited Flexibility: Some TMS solutions may have limitations in terms of customization and flexibility, making it difficult to adapt to specific business needs or changes in the market.

Key Features

  • 3PL Support: MercuryGate, while suitable for most companies, includes functionalities to help 3PL providers run the operations they are in charge of. Manage multiple transportation methods for multiple clients with a suite of 3PL-enabled tools. It scores 100 in our analyst data for integrating with freight broker solutions such as Loadsmart and FreightFriend. The same impressive score expands to its integration with logistics solutions like FedEx and UPS.
  • MercuryGate Control Tower: The control tower's map-view interface offers a complete overview of all shipments in transit. It helps users identify bottlenecks or delays and take corrective actions promptly. The control tower improves situational awareness and operational responsiveness.
  • Order Management: MercuryGate's TMS simplifies order management with automated order entry, a shipping cart for item selection and electronic generation of all shipping documents, including invoices and bills of lading. Rated a score of 100, its features let you access agreement details, plan loads by weight or delivery dates, and drill into vendor shipment progress.
  • Exception Management: The system highlights important deviations from routine operations, such as delays and unexpected costs, enabling quick resolution to maintain efficiency and service levels. Instant notifications ensure all relevant parties are aware and can collaborate on solutions, reducing misunderstandings and maintaining alignment across the logistics network.
  • Carrier Rate Management: This module helps you compare freight rates and services from different carriers to make cost-effective shipping decisions while maintaining service levels. Use performance scorecards that score a perfect 100 in our data to evaluate carriers based on criteria such as timeliness, compliance and responsiveness.
  • Reporting and Analytics: The platform offers customizable reports that create insights specific to operational requirements, enabling targeted analysis and strategic planning. The financial and performance analysis reports that score 100 in our analyst data offer in-depth breakdowns of costs and operational metrics.
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Why We Picked Uber Freight

Uber Freight has established itself as a prominent player in the logistics software arena, offering a platform that streamlines freight operations for both shippers and carriers. User feedback over the past year paints a picture of a service with clear strengths and weaknesses. Many users commend the platform's intuitive interface and its ability to simplify tasks such as rate shopping, booking, tracking, and payment. This ease of use translates into significant time and cost savings, a crucial factor for businesses operating in the fast-paced world of logistics. Additionally, Uber Freight's dynamic pricing model, which adjusts rates based on real-time market conditions, has been praised for its transparency and flexibility, particularly during periods of high demand or market volatility.

However, some users have expressed concerns regarding the platform's limitations. Certain features commonly found in competing logistics software, such as advanced reporting and analytics tools, are reportedly absent from Uber Freight. These limitations can hinder businesses that require in-depth data analysis for strategic decision-making. Additionally, there have been reports of occasional reliability issues, such as delays in load matching or inaccurate tracking information.

In conclusion, Uber Freight appears to be an ideal solution for small to medium-sized businesses seeking a user-friendly and cost-effective platform to manage their freight operations. Its intuitive interface and dynamic pricing model offer a compelling value proposition. However, larger enterprises or those with complex logistical needs may find the platform's current feature set somewhat restrictive. As with any technology solution, it's recommended to carefully evaluate your specific requirements and compare available options before making a decision.

Pros & Cons

  • Transparent Pricing: Easily compare rates from different carriers without needing to negotiate, enabling more efficient budgeting and cost management.
  • Streamlined Booking: Book shipments with just a few clicks, saving time and effort compared to traditional methods.
  • Real-Time Tracking: Monitor the status and location of shipments in real-time, providing better visibility and control over the supply chain.
  • Wide Carrier Network: Access a large network of reliable carriers, increasing the chances of finding the right fit for specific shipping needs.
  • Limited Customer Support: Uber Freight's customer support options are limited, often leaving users feeling frustrated and unheard when issues arise. The lack of readily available assistance can be particularly challenging for time-sensitive logistics operations.
  • Pricing Transparency: The platform's bidding system and lack of upfront pricing details can make it difficult for carriers to accurately predict their earnings and for shippers to effectively budget for transportation costs. This opacity can lead to uncertainty and potential disputes over final charges.
  • Technological Glitches: Users frequently report encountering technical issues and glitches within the Uber Freight app, which can disrupt operations and cause delays. These technological hiccups can range from app crashes to inaccurate location tracking, hindering overall efficiency.

Key Features

  • TMS and Advanced Technology: Assists with planning, execution, settlement and other key aspects within TMS. Provides performance optimization and management with analytic capabilities for all modes such as parcel, LTL truckload and truckload. Features include: 
    • Global control tower
    • Service prediction
    • Real-time visibility
    • Freight allocation module
    • Optimize prime product for freight optimization
    • Network services
    • Business intelligence and advanced data analytics
  • Global Transportation Management: Includes features for carrier management, freight claims, audits and payment services. Provides network collaboration with clients and business process outsourcing as well. These capabilities are available across Europe and North America. 
  •  Platform Services: Comprised of three toolkits: 
    • Data Insights: Provides detailed insights for market intelligence and benchmarks. Analyze service and spend metrics through specialized reporting and benchmarking tools. 
    • Command Center: Facilitates end-to-end visibility and real-time tracking with event monitoring and service prediction capabilities for shippers within supply chain operations. 
    • Marketplace: Includes several features for LTL consolidation, private and dedicated fleet optimization, cross docks, and continuous movement, within a single collaboration platform. 
  • Global Trade and Customs:  
    • Ocean and Air: Facilitates and monitors ocean and air shipments through a global control tower toolkit, with data integration, pricing and routing capabilities. 
    • NVOCC: Provides a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) with Federal Maritime Commission Requirement compliance. Leverage the benefit of a contracted carrier base to negotiate the best carrier prices with rail, ocean and air liners. 
    • Cross-Border Logistics: Offers multi-modal cross-border logistic capabilities for freight management and shipment crossing the borders across Mexico and Canada. Access entry ports, personalized customer support services and ensure legal compliance using the tools. 
    • Custom Brokerage and Compliance: Leverage specialized consultants, including customs brokers and logistics experts, for analysis of procedures and goods, as well as special attorneys. Assists with simplifying all global trade operations within Mexico, Canada and the U.S. 
    • Cross Dock and Transload Services: Consolidates goods for direct shipment to the end customer to avoid unnecessary expenses and delays. Provides product customization features including, kitting and labeling as well as product position within the U.S, Canada, Mexico or even overseas. 
  • Capacity Services: Access strategic intermodal and truck brokerage features for all supply chain modes across Mexico, Canada and the U.S. Includes drayage, expedited and over-dimensional freight, LTL and consolidations, parcel and various other truckload services. 
  • Engineering and Consulting: Provides features for asset management, supply chain management, mode and carrier optimization, sourcing and procurement, network designing and dedicated assessments for the entire fleet. 
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Why We Picked JDA TMS

JDA TMS users praise its comprehensive functionality and ability to manage the entire shipment lifecycle. Its robust planning capabilities received particular credit.

Integration with other systems is another significant benefit. Users call the system “WMS-aware” for its integrative ability. The software's key advantages are its powerful planning capabilities, which enable the creation of efficient routes, the management of load and the implementation of strategies to minimize transportation costs.

However, some users noted a learning curve when using the system, and JDA TMS could benefit from a more user-friendly interface to broaden its appeal. Additionally, some user reviews raised questions about its cost-effectiveness, which may require further investigation into pricing models.

Although JDA TMS doesn't inherently include the powerful supply chain visibility features of Blue Yonder's Luminate Control Tower, integration between the two is possible, which promises a more holistic view of the supply chain.

Pros & Cons

  • Transportation Planning and Execution: All users commended the integrated planning and execution functionality, which helped optimize routes or loads and implement transportation modeling seamlessly.
  • Automation: All users reported that the automated workflows have reduced human intervention in repetitive processes.
  • Scalability: All users indicated that JDA TMS grew with their businesses to fulfill all the evolving needs.
  • Integration: 75% of users have said that the system integrated seamlessly with other systems, especially WMS.
  • Learning Curve: Most users agreed that it has a steep learning curve and that they needed extensive training to unlock its rich functionalities.
  • Training and Support: 86% of users expressed dissatisfaction with customer support services. They struggled with inefficient training modules and a lack of post-implementation support.
  • Customization: 67 % of JDA TMS users said the system is somewhat inflexible, making it difficult to customize for specific use cases.

Key Features

  • End-to-End Planning: Integrate fleet and common carrier planning to maximize efficiency and planning. Optimize local, national and international inbound and outgoing processes.
  • Transportation Execution: JDA TMS includes automated implementation, real-time shipment and product-level visibility, advanced routing, mode, container and service-level optimization, as well as inventory awareness throughout the supply chain.
  • Transportation Modeling: The platform uses tactical modeling and connected business analytics to provide the most precise assessment of savings and network performance evaluation.
  • Order Management And Supplier Collaboration: The Luminate platform lets shippers and carriers interact and validate POs, manage supplier compliance, track milestones, provide routing instructions, and produce reports. 
  • Load Building: Enhance load-building with pre-defined integration flows from Luminate Planning. Create customizable replenishment plans that account for transportation constraints. Consolidate orders and optimize vehicle load plans. The shipment edit functionality supports adding new items and adjusting shipping numbers.
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Why We Picked SAP Transportation Management

Navigating the intricate world of transportation management systems can feel like charting a course through a dense jungle. With a myriad of options available, each boasting unique features and functionalities, selecting the right one for your business can be daunting. One name that consistently emerges from the undergrowth is SAP Transportation Management, a comprehensive solution designed to streamline and optimize transportation operations. But how does it truly fare in the eyes of its users?

SAP Transportation Management receives consistent praise for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for those without prior experience with similar software. The system's ability to seamlessly integrate with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is another highlight, enabling a unified view of logistics and supply chain processes. This integration empowers businesses to break down data silos and achieve greater visibility across their operations. However, some users note that the initial setup and configuration can be complex, often requiring specialized expertise. Additionally, the software's robust capabilities come at a cost, which may pose a challenge for smaller businesses with limited budgets. Despite these drawbacks, SAP Transportation Management stands out for its comprehensive reporting and analytics features, providing businesses with actionable insights to drive informed decision-making and optimize transportation strategies. The software's ability to manage various transportation modes, including road, rail, air, and ocean, further enhances its versatility and appeal.

In conclusion, SAP Transportation Management emerges as a powerful and adaptable solution well-suited for large enterprises with complex transportation needs and the resources to invest in a sophisticated system. Its ability to integrate with existing systems, provide end-to-end visibility, and generate comprehensive reports makes it a valuable asset for businesses seeking to optimize their transportation operations and gain a competitive edge in today's dynamic market. While the initial setup complexity and cost may present challenges for smaller businesses, the long-term benefits and scalability of SAP Transportation Management make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to elevate their transportation management to new heights.

Pros & Cons

  • Improved Visibility: Provides real-time insights into transportation processes, allowing for better decision-making and proactive problem-solving.
  • Enhanced Efficiency: Automates manual tasks, streamlines workflows, and optimizes resource allocation, leading to cost savings and improved productivity.
  • Collaboration: Facilitates seamless collaboration between shippers, carriers, and other stakeholders, fostering stronger relationships and improving communication.
  • Scalability: Adapts to changing business needs and supports growth, ensuring long-term value and flexibility.
  • Complexity: The system's intricate structure and extensive configuration options can present a steep learning curve for new users, potentially leading to implementation challenges and delays.
  • Cost: Implementing and maintaining SAP TM can be expensive, especially for smaller businesses or those with less complex transportation needs. The licensing fees, infrastructure costs, and ongoing support expenses can accumulate quickly.
  • Integration: Integrating SAP TM with existing systems, such as ERP or warehouse management systems, can be a complex and time-consuming process, requiring careful planning and execution to ensure seamless data flow and avoid disruptions to operations.
  • Customization: While SAP TM offers a high degree of customization, tailoring the system to specific business requirements can be challenging and may necessitate specialized expertise or additional development efforts.

Key Features

  • Freight Management: SAP TMS contains a suite of tools that can lower spending on transportation management processes while measuring shipper and trade agreement compliances. 
  • Order Management: Visibility into shipping and order management helps increase customer satisfaction while also cutting costs related to freight management. SAP TMS boosts the efficiency of order and process management while leveraging rules-based routing. 
  • Analytics: Analytics tools allow SAP TMS to provide real-time data-driven data in order to help optimize and expedite planning processes. With tools to improve collaboration with business partners while also lowering data complexity, this solution helps keep an operation competitive. 
  • Transportation Management: Streamlined transportation management processes allow logistics operations to move faster while creating a more responsive supply chain. Dynamically responding transportation processes cut costs even further while boosting efficiency. 
  • Freight Costing: Increase visibility into your transportation costing and invoicing. Automated calculations help cut down on human-based errors and clients can integrate their transportation management data into their billing data. 
  • Planning: Planning tools increase order delivery accuracy and boost on-time deliveries. Plan out the most fuel-efficient transport route and leverage automated planning processes to connect with the perfect carrier. 
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Why We Picked Logility

Logility provides effective features for supply change and transportation management, with users calling out its planning, forecasting and modeling tools as notable strengths. Reviews unanimously indicate that the initial setup is challenging and cumbersome. There’s also a steep learning curve and the software is difficult to customize. However, prompt and effective customer support is offered to help resolve any issues. It has a simple user interface, and users also appreciate how easy it is to manipulate and manage data. Overall, it’s a good choice for companies looking to get extensive supply chain and transportation capabilities.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to Use: The software is extremely easy to use and navigate through, as reflected by 80% of reviews on the UI.
  • Responsive Support: A team of dedicated consultants with good business acumen offer prompt and effective customer support, according to 100% of reviews on support.
  • Planning and Forecasting: All reviews on this feature indicate that powerful tools for planning, forecasting and modeling, which are accessible anytime and anywhere, are a major benefit.
  • Data Actions: Users can easily upload data, download into Excel and perform mass changes in a few clicks, as suggested by all reviews on data actions.
  • Initial Setup: The initial setup is challenging, as suggested by all reviews on this feature.
  • Learning Curve: According to 65% of reviews on this element, using technical tools involves a steep learning curve.
  • Difficult Customization: Customizing features isn’t simple, as indicated by 100% of reviews on customization.

Key Features

  • Analytics: Leverages complex machine learning, AI and other simulations to automate planning and give insight into supply chain data and functions. Supports planning across large multi-enterprise networks and other complex operations. 
  • Inventory Optimization: Accelerates inventory turns, reduces carrying costs, and reveals the best stocking locations and sizes of inventory buffers. Algorithms and machine learning help create strong inventory policies. 
  • Demand Optimization: Helps deploy optimal inventory based on changes occurring in daily demand while lowering the amount of inventory needed to meet customer service requirements. Attribute demand to specific customers and eliminate non-essential inventory to reduce carrying costs. 
  • Lifecycle Management: Gaining full visibility into projects allows end-to-end control over the lifecycle of an operation. Put financial plans into place so that projects meet their revenue goals and plan to source by vendor and region. 
  • Sourcing Management: Supports RFQ’s (requests for quotes) to aid choosing participating vendors based on the set criterias. Compares suppliers on the global market to each other and issued RFQs. Also optimizes vendor onboarding to aid in vetting factories to mitigate risks. 
  • Supply Optimization: Leverage it to optimize sourcing and production. Automate replenishment as well as set and view a realistic, similar model of a supply chain for a beneficial bird’s eye view. 
  • Integrated Business Planning: Accelerates operational and financial business planning with tools to visualize all merits across multiple scenarios. Helps plan and showcase diverse currencies, and synchronize tactical and strategic plans over a variety of time horizons. 
  • Quality Compliance: Facilitates quality management audits, global logistics and regulatory document management to deliver the right items at the desired place and time. 
  • Retail Optimization: Includes tools for allocation, merchandising and assortment planning, which streamline processes, balance plans across levels, boost overall sales and cut inventory expenses. 
Start Price
$15,000
Annually
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Why We Picked BluJay TMS

BluJay TMS caters to the specific needs of diverse industries. It offers a range of specialized features that help companies streamline their shipping processes, reduce costs and enhance collaboration. The platform comes with robust features such as multimodal freight management, automated carrier selection, real-time shipment tracking and the BluDex Transportation Index, which allows for trend analysis.

Users praised the platform for its outstanding carrier network, inventory management and tracking features. However, some noted issues with customer service and the complexity of reporting features.

Overall, BluJay TMS is highly regarded for its ability to integrate seamlessly with existing systems, especially SAP, and for its real-time compliance screening service for international dealings.

Whether the user is an eCommerce business, a manufacturer, or a distributor, BluJay TMS provides a flexible and scalable solution to manage transportation needs. With its advanced features and user-friendly interface, it takes the complexity out of logistics and lets businesses focus on growth.

Pros & Cons

  • Carrier Network: All users agreed that BluJay TMS lets them access a wide network of high-quality carriers.
  • Inventory Management: All users appreciated the inventory management module, which gave them control and visibility into moving items.
  • Tracking and Visibility: All users commended the product for its end-to-end shipment tracking capability.
  • Integration: 75% of users said that the system integrated seamlessly with other systems, especially SAP.
  • Customer Service: All users reported that service request resolutions are too lengthy.
  • Reporting and Analytics: 75% of users said that its reporting features aren't up to par as extracting reports is complicated.

Key Features

  • Transportation Management: Blujay TMS manages multimodal freight. It tracks shipments, manages carriers and optimizes planning. It also supports rating, routing and load building. Manage the entire shipping process from a single platform, from carrier selection to delivery confirmation.
  • Carrier Selection: It automates carrier selection based on specific needs for competitive shipment rates. It manages orders and cross-docking, offers container tracking and includes import/export management features.
  • Shipment Visibility: BluJay TMS helps track shipments in real time. It integrates with carrier networks to collect data. It provides shipment location, status and potential delay information, along with alerts and notifications.
  • BluDex Transportation Index: This tool collects data from millions of market transactions for an up-to-date look at transportation trends. It prevents risks like accepting low rates or working with unreliable carriers and ensures compliance with pricing policies and regulations.
  • Compliance Screen: Denied Party Screening is a real-time compliance screening service for international or domestic transactions. It checks for restricted parties, embargoed countries and export licenses, with optional notifications and audit trails for internal management. Automatic updates keep users compliant with changing laws.
  • Freight Bill Audit: BluJay TMS automates workflows to improve overall speed and efficiency. It works with carrier systems to gather data electronically, checks payments beforehand and takes care of issues, reducing the need for manual work. It also helps ensure that invoices are correct and paid on time.
Start Price
$80
Monthly
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Why We Picked IBM Sterling

IBM Sterling is a flexible and easy-to-use supply chain suite that helps its customers build dynamic and smarter business networks. It has a highly customizable platform and supports comprehensive integration capabilities with various external systems. Many reviewers have noted that it does not have an intuitive user interface, and the implementation process can be cumbersome. It involves a steep learning curve, and users find it complicated to understand. It also consumes a large amount of system resources, making it slow sometimes.

Pros & Cons

  • Integration: It supports integration with multiple external systems, as noted by 88% of reviewers who mention integration.
  • Customization: It offers highly customizable tools and features, as observed by 50% of the users who refer to reports.
  • Ease of Use: It offers a flexible platform that is easy to use, manage and modify, as noted by all the reviewers specifying ease of use.
  • Learning Curve: It is complicated to understand and involves a steep learning curve, as stated by 57% of the users who report learning curve.
  • Interface: Over 50% of reviewers that mentioned the interface stated that the interface is not user-friendly and intuitive.
  • Resource-Intensive: It consumes a large amount of system resources, as observed by all reviewers referring to system resource utilization.
  • Implementation: Around 67% of the users who specified implementation report that the deployment and implementation process is cumbersome.

Key Features

  • Business Network: Offers cloud-based and security-rich connectivity with suppliers, partners and customers. Ensure timely order deliveries with real-time intelligence and recommendations through AI capabilities. Provides multi-party visibility of digital events throughout the supply chain via blockchain, empowering transparency and trust. 
  • Food Trust: Connects participants through an immutable, permissioned and shared record of processing details, food provenance, transaction data and more through its collaborative network. Trace the location and status of food products, including essential details like multi-ingredient and farm-store view. 
  • Visibility Insights: Optimize performance by correlating data from disparate and siloed systems, creating digital playbooks and capturing organizational knowledge. Accelerate time to value, get intelligent insights, manage inventory and mitigate disruptions to meet demand through the inventory control tower. Supply chain intelligence services help boost data integration by developing purpose-built control towers using a control tower solution blueprint. 
  • TradeLens Platform: Gain access to a supply chain and logistics network with over half of the global container shipping volume data coverage through an interconnected supply chain partners system. Every shipment party can access their information and all transactions’ audit trails using its permission matrix. Offers services and apps developed by TradeLens and third parties to accelerate innovation and value creation. 
  • Trust Your Supplier: Identify, onboard and manage qualified suppliers through a blockchain-based solution. It helps expedite supplier onboarding, lower procurement operating costs, reduce compliance risk, speed new supplier assessments, access verified data and streamline insight sharing. 
  • Business Transaction Intelligence: Provides insights into B2B transaction lifecycles. Offers multi-part shared transaction visibility and empowers users with real-time visibility and self-service. Prevents potential risks by giving discrepancy alerts on B2B transaction anomalies. 
  • Transaction Manager: Automates manual B2B transactions and helps save money and time by cutting costs, reducing errors and elevating user satisfaction with customers, non-EDI suppliers and other trading partners. Gain unified visibility throughout supply chain partner transactions and onboard non-technical trading partners. 
  • Document Conversion Services: Converts manual transactions and non-structured documents like email, pdf and fax into EDI or other structured formats. Provides various features, including advanced OCR to read images, customized exception handling, multiple language support and ICR technology to recognize handwriting. 
  • Order Management: Ensures omnichannel order fulfillment by combining inventory and delivery visibility, multichannel order aggregation and service availability in a single platform. It helps customize monitoring and alerts, take immediate actions on capacity, deliver order promises with intelligent fulfillment and use reverse logistics to track inventory. 
  • Fulfillment Optimizer with Watson: Enhance existing order management systems and minimize cost-to-serve with cognitive analytics engine. Retailers can utilize store capacity, balance protecting margins and meet delivery expectations, increasing profits. 
  • Inventory Visibility: Explore product highlights and find use-case specific solutions. Users can personalize dashboards, balance inventory across channels, track inventory velocity, enable drop shipping, leverage autoscaling, get real-time views with the Cassandra database, Akamai gateways and more. 
  • Store Engagement: Gain inventory, customer and order data view through an intuitive user-interface, accessible from mobile devices and sales counters. Provides cross-sell and up-sell recommendations, enables flexible fulfillment options, helps standardize processes for task and inventory management and manages returns throughout channels using purpose-built tools. 
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Why We Picked Manhattan TMS

Navigating the labyrinth of Transportation Management Systems (TMS) can feel overwhelming, but Manhattan TMS emerges as a compelling contender, offering a robust suite of features designed to streamline transportation and logistics operations. User feedback from the past year paints a picture of a solution celebrated for its ease of use and comprehensive functionality, yet shadowed by concerns regarding its cost and perceived rigidity.

Manhattan TMS distinguishes itself through its intuitive interface and extensive capabilities encompassing planning, execution, and tracking. The software's integration with other Manhattan Associates solutions further enhances its appeal, creating a unified ecosystem for managing various aspects of the supply chain. However, the platform's premium pricing and potential lack of flexibility have drawn criticism from some users, particularly those seeking more customizable solutions. These factors are crucial considerations for businesses evaluating TMS options, as they directly impact the software's affordability and adaptability to unique operational requirements. Ultimately, Manhattan TMS appears well-suited for larger enterprises with complex transportation needs and the budget to invest in a top-tier solution. Its comprehensive feature set and integration capabilities can empower these organizations to optimize their transportation networks and achieve significant efficiency gains.

Pros & Cons

  • Ease of Use: Users frequently praise the platform's intuitive design and user-friendly interface, highlighting that it simplifies complex tasks such as shipment tracking and carrier management.
  • Comprehensive Functionality: Manhattan TMS offers a wide range of features, covering various aspects of transportation management, from procurement and planning to execution and settlement, which caters to diverse business needs.
  • Visibility and Control: The platform provides real-time visibility into shipment status and transportation costs, empowering users with greater control over their supply chain operations and facilitating proactive decision-making.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: Manhattan TMS is designed to accommodate businesses of all sizes and can be easily scaled to meet evolving requirements, making it a suitable solution for growing companies.
  • Integration Capabilities: The platform seamlessly integrates with other enterprise systems, such as ERP and WMS, enabling efficient data exchange and streamlined workflows.
  • Limited Customization: The system's rigidity can pose challenges for businesses with unique workflows or industry-specific requirements that necessitate a high degree of customization.
  • Learning Curve: Manhattan TMS presents a steep learning curve due to its intricate features and functionalities. Users frequently report difficulties in navigating the system and effectively utilizing its capabilities without comprehensive training.
  • Cost: Implementing and maintaining Manhattan TMS can be expensive, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. The licensing fees, implementation costs, and ongoing support expenses can strain budgets.
  • Integration Challenges: Integrating Manhattan TMS with existing enterprise systems, such as warehouse management systems (WMS) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, can be complex and time-consuming.

Key Features

  • Smart Transportation Modeling: It empowers users with solutions that help implement important changes to business models while observing their impacts. 
  • Transportation Procurement: The system supports logistics and enables users to source contracts, manage bids and automate procurement, streamlining the bidding process. 
  • Fleet Management: Manhattan TMS boosts fleet efficiency with features focused on safety and compliance. It also leverages machine learning and analytics to support better decision making. 
  • Carrier Management: It provides a comprehensive set of solutions that help maximize driver and customer satisfaction while ensuring that asset utilization and operational costs remain low. 
  • Audit, Bills and Claims: This tool helps maximize savings by transforming automated sources and varied data manuals into one single freight invoice database. 
  • Shipping Planning and Execution: Manhattan Associates transportation management suite offers robust, connectable and scalable solutions to help plan, optimize and execute operations. 
  • Driver Support: This software suite offers maximum support to fleet drivers to help them with all kinds of communication, including dispatch. 
  • Load Analyzer: The load analyzer function helps users analyze and accordingly balance delivery loads across multiple shifts, resources and fleets throughout the entire transport and supply chain. 
  • Invoice Management: It enables fleet owners and clients to manage all invoices and their reconciliation through telemechanics or by a carrier portal. 
  • Customer Training: Training is offered to new and existing customers in a structured learning environment. This enables them to gather knowledge about configuration, solution use, system administration and implementation. 
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Why We Picked Kuebix

Kuebix provides solutions for transportation management with freight intelligence and is widely used by companies of all sizes. As suggested by most user reviews, it has slow and tedious report tracking and lacks information to track inbound shipments. The amount of time it takes to book shipments was another complaint. Despite those issues, it has a lot to offer, including a comprehensive suite of features that generally save a lot of time. Moreover, its easy-to-use UI, affordable cost, and quick and effective customer service make it a strong contender for companies looking for a TMS solution.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to Use: All reviews on usage suggest that it’s highly intuitive, making it easy to understand and use.
  • Customer Service: Support is quick and highly responsive, according to 100% of reviews on the same.
  • Comprehensive Suite: Its ability to serve all supply chain requirements and handles all from setting shipments to accessing reports is helpful, as noted by 100% of reviews on functionality.
  • Saves Time: All users mentioning this aspect agreed that sorting through different quotes and pulling all of them from LTL carriers simultaneously helps save time.
  • Budget-Friendly: All reviews on product cost indicate that the software is extremely cost effective as compared to competitors that offer TMS solutions.
  • Report Tracking: It can be cumbersome and tedious to track reports, as suggested by 85% of reviewers mentioning this feature.
  • Inbound Shipments: The software doesn’t track information for shipments coming inbound, according to all reviews on the topic.
  • Tedious Shipment Bookings: More than 55% of reviews on shipment bookings indicate that it’s tedious and time-consuming to book shipments.

Key Features

  • Rate Negotiation: Dive into shipping options to choose the best service levels and rates for shipments. Compare and view rates for any mode of transportation to increase savings. 
  • Spot Quotes and Services: Request spot quotes for freight volumes to lower freight costs. An expansive and accessible shipping community enables finding the best rates for freight volumes and service levels. 
  • Easy Booking: Book shipments directly through the system. After connecting with a carrier, get shipments booked and ready to go in a few clicks. 
  • Shipment Tracking: Stakeholders can gain full real-time visibility into critical shipments. Customers can see exactly where their product is and when it’s expected to arrive, which can boost customer satisfaction. 
  • Automatic Freight Audit and Pay: Automatically audits carrier invoices against rate quotes that have been approved. Identifies rates that should be disputed by pointing out unexpected fees. When a correct pay amount has been put together, the system can automatically deduct it from an invoice. 
  • Claims Management: Maintain historical claims and organize them to ensure none are passed over by accident. 
  • Carrier Management: Supports and tracks important carrier tasks, schedules and customer or client interactions to help gauge a carrier’s performance. 
Start Price
$600
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Why We Picked Oracle Transportation Management

Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) is a powerful TMS solution with a comprehensive set of features, but it's not without its drawbacks.

One of the most common complaints from users is the complex user interface (UI). Many users find the UI to be difficult to navigate and learn, which can lead to frustration and inefficiency. For example, one user commented, "The UI is so clunky and outdated. It takes me forever to find the information I need." This can be a major drawback for companies that need a user-friendly system that can be easily adopted by their employees.

Another common complaint is the high cost of ownership. OTM is a relatively expensive product, and the licensing fees and ongoing maintenance costs can be a significant burden for small and medium-sized businesses. One user said, "The cost of OTM is just too high. We were looking for a more affordable solution." This is especially true when compared to other TMS solutions on the market, such as SAP Transportation Management and JDA Transportation Management.

However, despite these drawbacks, OTM also has a number of strengths. One of the biggest strengths is its comprehensiveness. OTM offers a wide range of features and functionality, which can be a major advantage for companies with complex transportation needs. One user said, "OTM is a very powerful tool. It has all the features we need to manage our transportation operations efficiently." This is especially true when compared to some of the more basic TMS solutions on the market.

Another strength of OTM is its scalability. OTM can be easily scaled to accommodate the needs of growing businesses. This is important for companies that expect their transportation needs to increase over time. One user said, "OTM is very scalable. We've been able to easily add users and functionality as our business has grown." This is not as true for some of the smaller TMS solutions on the market, which may not be able to accommodate the needs of larger businesses.

Overall, OTM is a powerful and comprehensive TMS solution that can be a good fit for companies with complex transportation needs. However, the high cost of ownership and the complex UI may be drawbacks for some companies.

Pros & Cons

  • Improved Visibility: Gain real-time insights into your entire transportation network, from shipment status to carrier performance.
  • Enhanced Efficiency: Automate routine tasks, optimize routes and modes, reduce costs, and improve resource utilization.
  • Increased Collaboration: Share data and insights with partners to improve communication, coordination, and decision-making.
  • Reduced Risk: Proactively identify and mitigate potential disruptions, ensuring on-time deliveries and minimizing the impact of unexpected events.
  • Scalability: Adapt to changing business needs and grow your operations with ease, accommodating increasing volumes and expanding global reach.
  • Limited Visibility: Difficulty tracking shipments and inventory across the entire supply chain.
  • Complex User Interface: Steep learning curve and cumbersome interface make it difficult for users to navigate and find the information they need.
  • Customization Challenges: Limited ability to customize the system to meet specific business needs.
  • Integration Issues: Difficulty integrating with other enterprise systems.
  • High Cost of Ownership: Expensive licensing fees and ongoing maintenance costs.

Key Features

  • Carrier Sourcing: Helps plan and execute shipments to domestic or international locations. Optimizes storage in shipping containers, streamlines order consolidation and boosts overarching transportation network efficiency. 
  • Fleet Management: Streamlines fleet, driver and trailer management. Handle disputes, optimize contracted carrier rates and improve fleet resource visibility. 
  • Operational Planning: Leverage algorithms and optimization engines to optimize shipments based on variables, including cost and asset utilization. Maintains organized transportation flow with support for complex multi-stop consolidation, pooling and cross-docking. 
  • Transportation Intelligence: Customize real-time dashboards and leverage data stored within the system. Transforms transportation data into valuable insights to predict future inefficiencies and act proactively. 
  • Payment, Billing and Claims: Reduces process time and prevents errors associated with billing through automated freight payments. Ensures clients pay and get billed accurately for the services provided to them. 
  • Rate Management: Access a rating engine and global repository of service providers and relevant services in one place. Streamlines rate management with dedicated support for ocean, rail, air, parcel, LTL, intermodal and truckload shipments. 
  • Order Management: Integrates with purchasing, external order management and warehousing to manage transportation demand-induced operations. Share and offer tools to external parties and the supply chain, including suppliers, partners, clients and customers. 
  • Visibility and Events Handling: Proactively manage order lifecycle and shipment with automated milestone tracking and monitoring. Automatically accelerate dispatches at times of significant delays in pick-up confirmations. Receive live status updates from dispatch parties in multiple formats on tablets and mobile devices. 
  • Booking and Tendering: Utilize several communication channels, including XML, mobile device, web and email. Share dispatch plans and workflows and handle service provider texts in real time. Offers automated support to manage several tender processes such as broadcast and sequential tendering. 
  • Reporting and E-Documents: Create insightful reports and e-documents for crucial business aspects, including commercial invoice, BOL, lane-based carrier performance, projected late orders, packing list and cost savings. 
  • Forwarding and Brokerage: Automate freight forwarding operations and brokerage workflows to improve and expedite processes. Offers end-to-end support for several functions such as console and job management and quoting. 
  • Integrations: Integrates with Oracle Cloud SCM apps and Oracle EBS (E-Business Suite), supporting and synchronizing shipment information with sales orders. Templates consist of predefined workflows, including shipping and order compliance, export documentation, order planning and processing and transportation. 

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All Freight Broker Software (68 found)

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Oracle Transportation Management

by Oracle America
Oracle Transportation Management
Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) is a cloud-based platform designed to help businesses manage their transportation logistics. It offers a range of features, including shipment planning and execution, freight procurement, and visibility and tracking. OTM is most suited for large and mid-sized businesses with complex transportation needs, such as those in the manufacturing, retail, and distribution industries. Important benefits of OTM include improved efficiency, reduced costs, and increased visibility into the supply chain. Popular features include route optimization, multi-modal support, and global trade management. User experiences indicate that OTM is a powerful and comprehensive solution, but can be challenging to implement and integrate with other systems. Pricing is based on a subscription model, with costs varying depending on the number of users and features required. Per unit pricing is also available for certain features. Generally, OTM is considered to be a premium-priced solution compared to some competitors. However, its comprehensive feature set and potential return on investment (ROI) often justify the cost for large organizations. Pros Comprehensive features Scalability and flexibility Enhanced visibility and control Powerful automation capabilities Responsive and knowledgeable support Cons Significant cost investment Complexity and learning curve Implementation and integration challenges Limited customization options Potential integration difficulties
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$500 - $1,000
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Trimble Transportation

by Trimble Inc.
Trimble Transportation
Trimble Transportation offers a comprehensive suite of software solutions designed to streamline and optimize transportation management tasks, including Transportation Management Systems (TMS). This software is particularly well-suited for logistics companies, freight brokers, and carriers within industries such as trucking, shipping, and supply chain management. The platform excels in providing real-time visibility, route optimization, and efficient load planning, which are crucial for these sectors. One of the standout benefits of Trimble Transportation is its ability to integrate seamlessly with various other systems, enhancing operational efficiency and data accuracy. Popular features include advanced analytics, automated workflows, and robust reporting capabilities. Users often highlight the software's user-friendly interface and the significant improvements in operational efficiency and cost savings it delivers. Compared to similar products, Trimble Transportation is praised for its scalability and customization options, making it adaptable to businesses of different sizes and needs. Pricing details are typically customized based on specific requirements, so it's advisable to contact SelectHub for a tailored quote.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: good
Cost Breakdown
$1,000 or more
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Buyer's Guide

Freight Broker Software Is All About Optimizing Freight Operations

Freight Broker Software BG Intro Header

Carriers and shippers face a slew of challenges in the fast-paced world of logistics. Tackling driver shortages, incorrect addresses and damaged products can feel like an uphill battle. For new carriers, establishing a strong network is still the toughest hurdle.

Freight broker software is a game-changing matchmaker that pairs carriers and shippers and supercharges their operations for maximum efficiency.

In this buyer’s guide, we’ll go over the benefits and features of freight software to help you pick an ideal solution.

Executive Summary

  • Supervise delivery processes from inventory storage or the warehouse to the end user with freight software solutions.
  • Some common freight broker features are shipment tracking, automated route scheduling, order scheduling, truckload management and tracking.
  • A list of important questions to ask stakeholders about the software and the vendor streamlines your selection process.
What This Guide Covers:

What Is Freight Broker Software?

Freight broker software solutions are digital platforms that connect shippers who need their products transported with carriers who provide transportation services.

It's a specialized wing of transportation management that helps broker expand their clientele and explore new business prospects. At the same time, shippers can access a larger network of dependable carriers to suit their transportation needs.

Essential features you need to consider while searching for a platform include 3PL management, dispatch management, import and export management, order and rate management, international forwarding and driver tracking.

Here are some additional features that certain freight broker tools may bring to the table:

  • Routing
  • Scheduling
  • Truckload Management
  • Waybills
  • Shipment Tracking

We’ll discuss more features and their nuances in the key features and functionalities section below. But first, let’s check out some top software benefits.

Primary Benefits

Primary Benefits of Freight Broker Software

Boosted Order Creation

Freight brokering software eliminates the need for a dedicated in-house or outsourced setup for client order documentation. Manually managing and executing this process is time-consuming, tedious and has a significant margin for errors.

The software lets customers automatically create, edit and delete orders in fewer clicks. It offers tools that make it easier to complete daily tasks, provides complete visibility into goods and automates nearly all load tendering steps.

Improved Quote Sharing

Normally, whenever an existing or potential customer asks for a quote, one of your team members has to filter and share a list of related quotes that may suit their requirements. A freight brokerage tool uses AI-powered machine learning algorithms to find suitable quotes matching the client’s requirements and automatically shares them to facilitate order placement.

Enhanced Load Management

Brokers can efficiently manage loads by tracking available vehicles, pairing them with relevant shipments and monitoring the status of each load. This capability ensures on-time delivery and lowers the possibility of mistakes or delays.

Freight broker software automates manual activities and streamlines day-to-day business operations. This results in increased efficiency, fewer errors and more productivity.

Streamlined Document Sharing

Documents play a crucial role in tracking customer and client deals. This information includes complete order details for every order each customer places.

Freight broker software helps you manage and share documents such as broker contracts with shippers and carriers, load bids, rate approvals, bills of lading, insurance certificates and other vital documents. Digitally handling these papers offers a higher level of security and backup.

Strengthened Customer Support

With end-to-end information about order history, status and location, including carrier and driver details, you can ensure your customers stay informed throughout the process until delivery.

Real-time tracking features and accurate ETAs let customers know where their order is without forcing them to call and check on it. These features also free up your employees’ time and let them focus on core business objectives.

Key Features & Functionality

Order Creation

Create orders that automatically share to your freight and TMS systems without manual intervention.

Choose from automatic booking quotes and ratings. Build tariffs and select from the rate list in real time. Most software helps create customized, on-the-spot quotes for orders.

Carrier Vetting and Onboarding

A thorough verification process protects brokers and shippers against risk. Before booking loads, brokers must assess carriers to ensure their qualifications, safety ratings and compliance records, including CSA scores.

Carriers that don’t have adequate insurance coverage or CSA scores may face increased liability in the event of an accident.

Brokers must onboard carriers into the system after vetting. You must enter carrier records, payments and other information into the system to enable the carrier to accept loads.

Look for freight broker software that automates this process so carriers can book loads faster.

Billing and Invoicing

Handle, export, consolidate and share bills and invoices in a few clicks. Manage all shipment modes, including ocean, land and air freight, with documented data from shipping partners, agents, clients and customs authorities.

Several freight broker software vendors provide primary accounting software functions like multi-currency payments and record keeping. Receive order documents that include rate confirmations, bills of lading, proofs of delivery and invoices for instant invoicing.

Advanced Communication

Offer quick, real-time communication channels for customers, administrators and teams. Keeps workflows in order and informs members about freight operations at all times. Receive automatic notifications and updates on freight status.

Freight broker software offers live chatbot features for simplified communication and support assistance for clients and customers. Shippers can oversee and fulfill deliveries without calling drivers and carrier companies or sending emails.

Features include two-way texting and internal instant messaging.

Freight Tracking

Access pinpointed driver and vehicle locations with GPS-powered tracking on mobile devices. Check load status and share instructions for drivers, including routing updates, dispatch cancellations and more.

By not needing to call carriers for updates, brokers can save time, and geofencing offers alerts for specific events. Carriers like working with a broker who can lower the risk of fines.

Customers can see the location of their freight in real time and receive automatic status updates about freight movement.

Load Management

View, manage, track and update all load-tracking insights throughout the delivery cycle. Administrators can sort and filter loads based on location, reference ID, driver, carrier and customer details from anywhere.

Routing and Dispatch

Suggest the best routes for optimized fuel and time utilization. Analyze maps, traffic insights, speed and modal limits, fuel costs in nearby refueling locations and other relevant factors.

Shippers can determine suitable carriers for individual deliveries with the help of comprehensive data and reporting. Consolidate and manage shipments with suitable and efficient loads.

Pick a route that eliminates delays and optimizes fuel consumption, accounting for traffic statistics, speed limitations and fuel prices. Choose a system that eliminates the need for calls and faxes to get the items flowing rapidly.

Digital Document Management and EDI

Send and receive data digitally, including files, documents, and customer and transportation information. Use customizable templates or create new documents from scratch.

Add metatags on documents for simplified indexing, and search using filters. Choose users with viewing, editing and commenting rights for certain internal and external documents.

Shippers, brokers and carriers should exchange load information in regular formats to minimize or reduce paper processes. Remove the need for manual data entry for seamless communication, which speeds up shipments and payments.

Software Comparison Strategy

We’ve set up a step-by-step process you can follow to find an effective freight broker solution:

1. Define your business goals and requirements

Make a comprehensive list of outcomes you expect to achieve and problems you want to solve with a new solution. For instance, you could want better shipment monitoring and tracking from a central location.

2. Define purchase worth

Often, companies invest in software loaded with expensive features they don’t need. If you’re already using freight brokering software, re-analyze your needs and jot down the pain points it doesn't solve. If you’ve just started, you can always try out free software. However, there are a handful of cons consider.

3. Analyze ROI

Calculate overall cost-reduction, time-saving and ease-of-use benefits. Be sure to determine if your system is worth its final price tag.

4. Compare three to five vendors

You should shortlist about three to five vendors before settling on a solution. Shortlists help you analyze and compare your needs, wants and good-to-have features. A system that meets these needs could be the ideal solution for your business.

If there’s a tie, you can further assess the vendor’s brand reputation, pricing, additional cost, length of agreement or contract, and other nuances relevant to your business and industry.

Here are some other parameters to consider when implementing your software comparison strategy:

  • Trial and Live Demo: Most freight broker vendors offer free trials and demos. Getting a feel for the product before investing can be a great way to see how well it suits your needs. Request free trials and demos from a handful of vendors, and compare their features to see which product satisfies your needs.
  • Integrations and Add-Ons: Does it integrate with CRM apps, APIs, EDIs, webhooks, load boards and a dispatch marketplace?
  • Additional Features: Look for comprehensive features with on-request or customizable accounting tools and TMS capabilities. This way, you won't have to invest more time and budget in other solutions.

Cost & Pricing Considerations

Generally, freight broker software pricing is about $100 per month for a single-user, basic plan. Advanced plans can cost about $550, depending on the features.

Rich integrations and a wide list of trusted carriers can also raise prices. If you’re a small business or a startup, look for a web-based or SaaS model instead with a lower cost of entry.

On the other hand, on-premise deployment is a good option for well-established enterprises. In this model, you pay a significant amount upfront to install the system on your in-house hardware. You’ll also have to cover regular servicing and security costs.

It’s up to you to decide which deployment strategy fits your business. While comparing prices and vendors, you should also consider the following factors:

  • IT support required with deployment and the vendor’s support assistance.
  • Technical support from the vendor.
  • Feedback and reviews from clients currently using cloud and in-house deployment.
  • Available integrations with the solutions like warehouse management tools or a supply chain management solution.

The Most Popular Freight Broker Software

Now that you’ve learned about freight brokering solutions, let’s look at our analyst-curated list of popular products.

Rose Rocket

Product Overview
User Sentiment Score 94%
Company Size S
Free Trial Info Available
Starting Price $200

Rose Rocket

Seamless load tracking and management with Rose Rocket. Source

What It Does

Rose Rocket is well-known freight broker software that streamlines and optimizes freight broker operations. Brokers can use it to manage their workflow, from load creation and monitoring to billing and reporting.

The platform gives brokers real-time visibility into load status, allowing them to track progress, update delivery information and address concerns.

The freight software integrates seamlessly with accounting systems, allowing automated billing and invoicing operations. Brokers can accurately issue invoices, track payments and manage transactions.

However, because of Rose Rocket's expansive feature set, many users noted that there’s a learning curve when first using it. Furthermore, while the software allows for extensive customization, the quality of technical support can fluctuate, which may be a disadvantage for some customers who need immediate support.

DAT

Product Overview
Company Size S | M
Free Trial Info Available
Starting Price $45/month

DAT

Calculate load-to-truck ratios with DAT.

What It Does

DAT provides brokers with an all-inclusive system to quickly match available loads with carriers, focusing on load board access and load monitoring. It provides real-time data and an easy-to-use interface, allowing brokers to discover acceptable carriers and successfully manage their loads swiftly.

A vital component of DAT is its load board, which serves as a marketplace for brokers to interact with carriers and negotiate prices.

The freight software also includes carrier monitoring, invoicing, and reporting features, allowing brokers to check the progress of their shipments, manage billing processes and generate critical business statistics.

On the drawbacks side, DAT is priced higher than most other market offerings. Users have also reported bugs and glitches that delete quotes frequently.

Ascend TMS

Product Overview
User Sentiment Score 62%
Company Size S | M | L
Free Trial Info Available
Starting Price $99/month per user
What It's Best For
Capability SelectHub Analyst Score
Carrier Portal 100
Truck freight 100
Route Analysis 90
Multimodal rate evaluation 85
Customizable dashboards 85

Ascend TMS

Asses and manage loads with AscendTMS.

What It Does

AscendTMS is a cloud transportation management system designed exclusively for freight brokers and carriers. It provides extensive capabilities for automating and streamlining various components of a freight broker business.

Brokers can use this freight software to manage load creation, carrier selection, dispatching, document management, billing and invoicing, reporting and other tasks.

AscendTMS's integration capabilities are one of its primary advantages. The platform connects effortlessly with major load boards, accounting systems and other third-party applications, giving brokers access to real-time market data, streamlining financial operations and improving overall visibility and communication.

One disadvantage is that it may not be suitable for larger, enterprise-level brokerages with advanced customization needs. Furthermore, some users have reported that its customer assistance is inconsistent, with delayed response times or limited availability.

Questions To Ask

The following questions can act as a starting point for internal communications about a new system:

  • Do you have strong IT support?
  • How much integration or customization do you expect?
  • Does the purchase price justify the cost and time it’ll save?
  • Which features are missing from your current solution?
  • What additional requirements do you need, if any?

Freight Broker Software Key Questions to Ask

Before you jump into a purchase, even if you feel comfortable with your research, asking some of the following questions can increase your understanding of the product and vendor.

  • What’s the frequency of software updates? What level of assistance and support do you offer to learn new functionalities?
  • Do you integrate with any route management or employee performance management software or load boards?
  • What level of customization and workflow automation is available?
  • Do you offer connections with DOT and CSA-compliant shippers?
  • Do you charge for additional consulting services, implementation, support or user training?

Next Steps

The market for freight broker software is vast. It’s best to opt for a basic version that meets your requirements and upgrade to a scalable product later, especially for startups and small businesses. This guide should serve as a starting point for your journey to a successful implementation.

Our free requirements template will help you prioritize the features and functionalities you’ll need. Good luck!

Additional Resources

About The Contributors

The following expert team members are responsible for creating, reviewing, and fact checking the accuracy of this content.

Technical Content Writer
Urnesha is a Technical Content Writer at SelectHub, covering supply chain management, TMS, and compensation management. She has worked in content writing, editorship, and translation for the last 7 years. Her dream is to be a lifelong learner and venture out of her comfort zone as she does so. She's passionate about access to quality education, animal rights, and sustainability, among other things. She holds a Master's degree in English literature from the University of Hyderabad. Outside of work, you can find her listening to The Beatles, making memes, or volunteering at an animal NGO.
Technical Research By Mohit Hariramani
Senior Analyst
Mohit has a degree and Master in Finance from Mumbai, India, his years of professional market research experience started in 2019. His expertise lies in categories such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing, Inventory Management, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Facility Management Software (FMS), POS Systems (Point of Sale) and more. Through his academic and professional background, he honed skills in attention to detail, navigating ambiguity, and analytical prowess, which uniquely equip him to manage and thrive in the dynamic landscape of these diverse categories. He's passionate about leveraging his knowledge and experience to contribute effectively to the assigned technology areas.
Technical Review By Kankana Kalita
Principal Analyst
A seasoned business and research analyst, Kankana Kalita specializes in ERP, CMMS, manufacturing, construction, supply chain, HRMS and CRM. Prior to joining SelectHub, she earned a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Engineering, an MBA in Operations and Marketing, and worked in email marketing and logistics.
Edited By Hunter Lowe
Content Editor
Hunter Lowe is a Content Editor, Writer and Market Analyst at SelectHub. His team covers categories that range from ERP and business intelligence to transportation and supply chain management. Hunter is an avid reader and Dungeons and Dragons addict who studied English and Creative Writing through college. In his free time, you'll likely find him devising new dungeons for his players to explore, checking out the latest video games, writing his next horror story or running around with his daughter.