Last Reviewed: November 18th, 2024

Best Public Transportation Software Of 2024

What is Public Transportation Software?

Public Transportation Software aims to simplify and streamline public transit operations, tackling issues such as inefficiency, route planning complexity, and passenger management. This digital transformation tool is crucial for optimizing operations, improving safety, enhancing user experience, and reducing environmental impact. Core features include route planning, scheduling, real-time tracking, fare calculation and Management Information System (MIS) reporting. AI-powered predictive analytics and IoT integrations are exciting emerging capabilities. While the software is a boon for transit authorities, municipalities, and transportation companies, its adoption may encounter resistance due to the required change in operational procedures, steep learning curve, and potential integration issues with existing systems. Conclusively, Public Transportation Software brings remarkable improvements to transit operations and passenger service. Although implementation can pose challenges, the opportunity to revolutionize transit efficiency, safety and sustainability cements its compelling value proposition.

What Are The Key Benefits of Public Transportation Software?

  • Enhanced operational efficiency
  • Improved route planning
  • Real-time vehicle tracking
  • Simplified fare calculation
  • Increased passenger safety
  • Effective management reporting
  • Reduced environmental impact
  • Boost service reliability
  • Promotes informed decisions
  • Improved customer satisfaction
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Overall

Based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub for 66 solutions, we determined the following solutions are the best Public Transportation 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
Monthly
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

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. 

COMPARE THE BEST Public Transportation Software

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All Public Transportation Software (66 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
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

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
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Buyer's Guide

Public Transportation Software Is All About Streamlining Public Transit 

Public Transportation Software BG Intro

After hopping on a bus or a train, we all want a smooth, efficient journey, right? That's where public transportation software shines. It streamlines the system, making our daily commute hassle-free and timely.

It’s eco-friendly too. Using public transportation save a household over $13,000 by ditching a car and reducing our carbon footprint. So, when we talk about the software, we're talking about making our cities safer, greener and more efficient.

Streamlining public commutes is essential for passengers to travel confidently, allowing transit agencies to adapt to this dynamic landscape. To help you get the most out of your software purchase, we’ll cover key features, pricing considerations, popular solutions and more.

Executive Summary

  • Public transportation software allows for better route management and cuts emissions.
  • Key offerings include driver and passenger safety features, informed decision making and higher ridership.
  • These tools inform passengers about headsigns through automated call center support, text messages and websites.
  • Making wise software choices begins with asking a few important questions about the vendor and user.
What This Guide Covers:

What Is Public Transportation Software?

Public transportation software is a set of tools that streamline and enhance every aspect of transit agency operations. They include a wide range of capabilities for managing several areas of public transportation:

  • Route Planning And Optimization
  • Scheduling
  • Ticketing
  • Real-Time Transit Status
  • Geolocation
  • Fleet Tracking

Back-office modules include administrative tasks, bookkeeping and asset management.

Buses, trains, trams, trolleys, ferries, paratransit and rapid public transportation systems come under its broad umbrella.

It helps eliminate traffic congestion and makes roads safer for everyone.

A public transit system helps strategize, create and collaborate on the essential aspects of smooth transportation for the masses. These processes can range from creating stop schedules, durations and distances to calculating ETA’s and creating optimized routes.

The software can also help design streets and priority corridors for speedy and reliable transit, especially during emergencies.

Primary Benefits

Here are some key upsides to having a public transportation system:

Primary Benefits of Public Transportation Software

Streamline Fare Collection and Rider Management

Modern public transportation software integrates electronic fare collection systems that streamline the ticketing process for passengers and transit agencies alike. They support various payment options, such as contactless cards, mobile apps and QR codes, making it more convenient for riders.

Furthermore, electronic fare management allows agencies to gather valuable ridership data, enabling better decision-making and targeted marketing efforts.

Using public transportation software, agencies can better identify rider patterns and habits. Every transaction is a data point, providing information on popular travel times, routes and payment preferences.

The sheer volume of information is invaluable. It can help transit operators make smarter decisions, from arranging efficient service schedules to setting acceptable charge rates.

Boost Operational Transparency

Public transportation software includes real-time vehicle tracking, providing transit agencies and passengers with up-to-date information on vehicle locations and expected arrival times.

For transit agencies, real-time tracking enables better fleet management and dispatching, helping address service disruptions and maintain on-time performance.

Passengers can plan their journeys more effectively and reduce wait times at stops.

Public transportation software also improves financial transparency. Access to comprehensive income reports and accurate fare collection data can help with financial planning and auditing, boosting accountability.

It provides a single platform that unifies all aspects of transit operations. This platform offers enhanced visibility and openness into public transportation operations for all stakeholders, from transit agencies to riders.

Optimize Routes and Schedules

Advanced algorithms and machine learning capabilities allow transit agencies to create more efficient schedules, minimize layovers and ensure optimal use of vehicles and personnel.

When determining the most effective paths, software algorithms can consider factors such as traffic congestion, rider demand, weather conditions and more.

It supports decision-making processes by evaluating these patterns, allowing transportation agencies to improve trip time and fuel usage.

Regarding scheduling, public transportation software can automate the process while considering peak travel hours and rider demand. It can create timetables that distribute transit services equally throughout the day, ensuring maximum coverage while minimizing idle time.

Streamline Maintenance and Asset Management

Transit agencies can deploy public transportation software to manage their assets and maintenance schedules more effectively. The software often contains maintenance management modules that provide capabilities for:

  • Scheduling routine service
  • Tracking repair history
  • Anticipating upcoming maintenance needs
  • Controlling spare component inventor

Since everything is stored digitally, there’s no paperwork to lose, track, or transfer, and users can instantly obtain accurate and up-to-date information.

Predictive maintenance has numerous benefits. In this case, the program uses data, such as mileage and engine hours, to predict when a vehicle will require servicing.

It may then plan these maintenance sessions automatically, preventing vehicle breakdowns and service disruption. Predictive maintenance also aids in making informed decisions about when to retire vehicles, resulting in optimal asset usage.

Manage Driver Time

The program can assist in creating timetables that consider peak hours, off-peak hours and the best use of each driver's time. Timetables ensure that operations run smoothly while keeping each driver's workload in mind and preventing unnecessary stress.

Another module of this software is driver time tracking. It assures compliance with labor laws and regulations on maximum work hours and obligatory breaks by monitoring drivers' work hours in real time. These measures keep drivers from being overworked, which can lead to accidents caused by weariness.

Furthermore, the software frequently incorporates attendance management and payroll tools, which provide precise records of hours worked, overtime, breaks and more. This inclusion simplifies payroll processing and allows drivers to record their hours.

Key Features & Functionality

Route Scheduling

This feature includes peripheral management, bidding, rostering, run cutting, route blocking, trip building, pattern, and route and bus stop creation.

The software considers realistic transport times and distances between stops. It calculates arrival and departure times based on traffic, road speeds and previous journey data.

Automated routing and intuitive scheduling tools spot optimal bus times, locations, and stop durations.

Route Monitoring and Emergency Detours

The software can rapidly examine alternative routes in emergencies or unforeseen incidents, like road closures, accidents or harsh weather.

It can plan the best diversion routes using real-time traffic data and current vehicle locations. Dispatchers can swiftly convey these changes to drivers, ensuring a speedy response to the event while minimizing service disruption.

Advanced route monitoring tools help administrators track bus headway.

Share information with public transport drivers in multiple formats, such as AVL mapping and Google Maps, without interfering with their concentration.

City Traffic and Congestion

Accommodate driver transfers and public transit departure times to deal with traffic. Optimize time management during rush hour by adjusting traffic light durations for multiple signals and stops.

Computer-aided Dispatch

Computer-aided dispatch, often called CAD, lets dispatchers and admin authorities create tasks and monitor data like route schedules and deviations, excessive idling, driver emergencies, and speeding.

Public transportation software assists in coordinating, tracking and dispatching vehicles along their designated routes.

By incorporating GPS technology, the CAD system delivers real-time location data for all cars in the fleet. This feature assists operators in monitoring the status of all ongoing journeys, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and on time.

Analytics and Comprehensive Reporting

Leverage robust information to ensure that plans and decisions fulfill public demand. Analyze commuter patterns using trained machine learning algorithms.

You can also access historical data on adherence to schedules for individual drivers a click away.

Chart and optimize effective employee and driver performance management policies.

Integration

Benefit from end-to-end integration with crucial vehicle systems such as automated fare collection hardware, head signs, automated traveler counters, annunciators and fare boxes.

Compliance Management

Public transportation software includes capabilities that track all applicable regulations and maintain compliance.

This feature could include things like safety regulations, emissions standards, labor regulations and maintenance standards.

Regular vehicle inspections, maintenance schedules, and safety audits can all be automated and managed with the program.

It can track and record these activities, ensuring that nothing falls between the cracks.

Software Comparison Strategy

Everyone wants bang for their buck for their solution, but choosing the right vendor with the perfect features is no mean feat. Adopting a comprehensive tool ensures you don’t invest unnecessary time, money and human resources into sourcing and implementing multiple tools.

If you’re looking for public transportation tools, you’ll probably be interested in TMS, time and attendance, payroll and performance management software to support and optimize public transit-related operations.

Since there is a slim possibility of finding a vendor that offers everything you need in a single product, you need to prioritize your requirements and filter vendors by their relevance to your needs.

If you already have public transportation software in place, schedule a meeting with stakeholders, including key decision-makers, and try to prepare a list of challenges that it fails to address. Additionally, add those features that would be good in an ideal tool.

Ensure the application has the necessary capabilities, like route planning, scheduling, ticketing, real-time updates and analytics. Additionally, some software might provide capabilities like back-office operations, client profiles and preferences, and compliance management.

Look for software companies that provide outstanding customer support. This feature could include round-the-clock assistance, live chat, email support or an extensive knowledge base.

Remember to include comparison ratings, reviews, feedback and pricing while you compare each system.

You also need to decide on an appropriate budget. Let’s move to the next stage and discuss essential cost and pricing considerations.

Cost & Pricing Considerations

The cost of public transportation software can vary widely, depending on several factors. Systems can typically range from $100 per month to a one-time payment of $1500 for an on-premise solution.

It’s also worth mentioning that some vendors charge on a profit percentage basis. This percentage-based costing model means you may be charged 1-2% on average for revenue earned from every processed ticket.

A starting plan with limited features can cost you as low as $100 per year. At this price, you may get the bare minimum, basic-level features like connected interactive maps, analytical reports and dashboards.

Conversely, a high-end tool’s advanced features or premium plan can cost you as much as $12,500 for a single-year subscription. You can expect advanced features such as 3D electromagnetic simulation and turbulence modeling that facilitate smart transportation and combats air pollution.

Here are steps for estimating the total cost of ownership for this software:

  • Identify Direct Costs: Start by pinpointing the software's purchase price, representing the primary direct cost. You can acquire this information by contacting the vendor or checking their website.
  • Identify Indirect Costs: These cover implementation, training, and ongoing maintenance and support. They can fluctuate based on the software's complexity and your organization's size. You can obtain this information by contacting the vendor or consulting their website.
  • Calculate Implementation Costs: Watch out for expenses related to hardware, software, and the personnel required for software installation and configuration. Considering any expenses linked to data migration and integrating the software with existing systems is essential.
  • Calculate Training Costs: Training costs include the expenses associated with training your staff to use the software effectively. This expense may encompass initial and continuous training to adapt to new features.
  • Calculate Maintenance and Support Costs: Consider technical support, software update and bug fix fees. Additionally, you should factor in any expenses associated with hardware maintenance and upgrades.
  • Determine Total Cost of Ownership: Once you've identified all direct and indirect costs, calculate the total cost of ownership by adding them together. This figure will comprehensively estimate the overall cost of owning and operating the public transportation software.

Check out some more upcoming innovations in our transportation trends article.

The Most Popular Public Transportation Software

Here are some standout products in the public transportation software marketplace based on popularity.

MercuryGate

What It Does

MercuryGate offers transportation, freight settlement, business intelligence, collaboration and planning solutions. The platform renders detailed visibility into all transportation operations and tasks.

MercuryGate's route optimization capability is a distinguished feature. It helps save time and money by mapping out the most effective routes, which is essential in the busy realm of public transportation. This strategic route design also significantly raises client satisfaction by guaranteeing punctual arrivals and departures.

MercuryGate offers automated billing and invoicing tools to simplify operations and minimize human mistakes. Removing the possibility of errors during manual entry improves financial management's efficiency and accuracy.

MercuryGate

MercuryGate Order Management dashboard.

Product Overview
User Sentiment Score 71%
Analyst Rating 83
Company Size S | M | L
What It's Best For
Capability SelectHub Analyst Score
Route Simulation 100
Route Analysis 100
Contract Creation 100
Supplier or Vendor Management 100
AI-Based Vehicle Allotment 85

Transplace

What It Does

Transplace empowers businesses to streamline their operations by enhancing planning and execution. It provides seamless inbound and outbound visibility.

It automates carrier selection, shipping routes, and transportation modes to save money and time. This public transport software integrates advanced analytics, specific reporting tools and actionable data insights to aid decision-makers.

Transplace stands out because it incorporates advanced analytics and specific reporting tools. These reveal valuable data insights that inform daily operational decisions, strategic planning and forecasting.

Transplace's insights give decision-makers the tools they need to improve operations, provide better customer service and make data-driven business decisions.

Transplace

A Transplace Dashboard.

Product Overview
User Sentiment Score 91%
Analyst Rating 74
Company Size M | L
Free Trial Available
What It's Best For
Capability SelectHub Analyst Score
Carrier Performance Scorecards 100
Carrier Repository 100
Multimodal Rate Evaluation 100
Route Planning 100
Contract Creation 100

JDA

What It Does

This application provides users with a control tower view of the everyday procedures related to shipping and distribution. Users may improve plans and streamline supplier and carrier communication by utilizing the features of this transportation management system.

Businesses of all sizes can benefit from increased visibility and real-time analytics tools that improve organization and aid in future planning. JDA includes several features to lower transportation costs, such as multi-stop/continuous move execution and reduced expediting.

The program increases the operational visibility of enterprises of all sizes. This transparency helps with organization, efficiency, future planning and strategic decision-making when combined with real-time analytics tools.

JDA

JDA presents its unified TMS dashboard. Source

 

 

Questions To Ask

The first step to finding the best public transportation software is asking a couple of questions. This strategy goes a long way in helping you evaluate your operation’s long and short-term goals to decide on the market trends you’re aiming to master.

Use the questions below to start discussions with your business stakeholders.

  • Which features do the stakeholders require?
  • What tools are necessary, and which ones are optional?
  • What pain points will it help eliminate in the short and long term?
  • What is the average budget for purchasing public transportation software?
  • Will employees need training to use the software?

Public Transportation Software Key Questions to Ask

Here are some questions to ask potential suppliers to help you learn more about the software and vendor.

About the Software

You can prepare software-related questions to learn more about the system. Here are some examples:

  • Does it integrate seamlessly with existing solutions?
  • Is there a contractually binding agreement? If so, for how long?
  • Does it offer customization?
  • How steep is the learning curve?
  • Do you have the required IT infrastructure to use the system effectively?

About the Vendor

You can use these questions to communicate with shortlisted vendors.

  • What support and advanced training do you offer?
  • How do you plan to stay relevant in the months ahead?
  • Which additional products do you have apart from this tool?
  • Have you received any rewards and recognition recently?
  • Do you offer any hardware solutions? What is the additional cost of hardware, implementation and servicing?

Next Steps

With many features and advantages that improve operations, efficiency, and customer experience, public transportation software is an essential tool for transit authorities. Transit agencies can fully utilize technology by executing a thorough procurement process and investing in the ideal software solution.

Need more help? Get started today with our free comparison report to gain insights about top features like route simulation, contract creation and more.

Product Comparisons

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.