Descartes Knowledge Center

What to Look for In TMS Freight Software for Forwarders?


Discover why freight forwarders are evaluating why to change their Transportation Management Software below. Ready to evaluate if switching your technology would benefit you? Download the full guide below.

What Are the Key Features of a Leading Forwarder TMS?

We have put together a short list of what features to look for in a TMS for freight forwarders:

A Single System for Operations

Having a single technology system is a good practice for freight forwarders because it streamlines operations, enhances efficiency, and reduces errors. A unified system integrates various functions such as booking, tracking, documentation, compliance, and invoicing eliminating the need for multiple disparate platforms.

A single platform not only improves data accuracy and consistency but also enhances visibility across the supply chain. Additionally, a single system simplifies training for employees, reduces IT maintenance costs, and minimizes the risk of communication breakdowns between departments. By consolidating operations into one platform, freight forwarders can improve customer service, optimize workflows, and gain a competitive edge in the industry.

Scalability

Extensible technology is critical to remain agile as industry standards change, regulations evolve, and to meet changing customer expectations. Innovative technology is not static but should grow with you as you expand.

Expert Support

A leading Forwarder TMS should be supported by service desks trained in the latest features of the software. Technical support representatives should possess an in-depth knowledge of forwarding operations from complex shipment movements to the latest compliance initiatives. The right technology partner should also be committed to client success with dedicated Customer Success Managers (CSMs) who guide users through best practices, host learning sessions, and regularly check on performance to ensure users derive maximum utility from the Forwarder TMS.

What Other Capabilities Should a Leading Forwarder TMS Offer?


Multimodal Shipment Management
To coordinate import and export shipments across all modes of transport. The right solution should feature shipment management via a dashboard-driven view to provide employees with a full view of operations and focus their attention on exceptions.

Accounting &
Financial Analysis
To take the pulse of business with rich accounting and financial performance analytics. Best-in-class technology should stream operational data into accounting modules and feature sophisticated multidivisional financial insight.

Shipment Tracking &
Visibility
To provide comprehensive customer-facing multimodal visibility with a web-based tracking tool. Leading solutions should deliver insight into the location and status of shipments along their journey and provide customer updates throughout the shipment journey.

Rating &
Quoting
To deliver on-demand customer booking and quoting with end-to-end carrier rate management. Modern technology should capture negotiated rates and carrier spot rates and deliver accurate customer quotes including all surcharges and fees while maintaining profit margins.

Reporting
& Analytics
To analyze trends and performance with advanced reporting and statistical analysis. The right solutions should deliver rich reporting on customer bookings, trade lane performance, and track booking patterns over time.


Can You Share Some Proven Success Stories of Forwarders Who Switched Their TMS?


Learn how IFF, USA is using Descartes TMS to Provide Real-time Customer-Facing Visibility

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Read how A Customs Brokerage is achieving growth with Descartes Forwarder TMS

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Discover how NorthPoint Logistics is automating workflow and improving customer service with Descartes

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Read how MSI International is enhancing overall customer service levels and automating processes with Descartes

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Ready to See Descartes TMS In Action?