The Best Shipping Software Features for Shippers
Explore how shipping software, or Transportation Management Systems (TMS), enhances your shipping process. High-end TMS Platforms offer significant advantages to shippers. This article dives into the valuable benefits of investing in a freight shipping systems.
Rating, Scheduling, and Tracking
In the past, rating was a manual process requiring logistics coordinators to use rate tables and perform calculations. Nowadays, technology provides real-time rating and access to comparative rates from multiple carriers.
Previously, scheduling with carriers involved phone calls or emails to carrier representatives. Modern TMS technology connects seamlessly through EDI/API connections for real-time pickup scheduling. This benefits both carriers and shippers, ensuring immediate information transmission and automated planning.
At its most basic level, TMS Systems stores tracking information, including PRO#s and other reference numbers. This enables shipping clerks or customer service agents to quickly reference and track shipments. Leading shipping software includes EDI/API Tracking, integrating carriers and allowing for real-time tracking updates, similar to the rating and scheduling processes.
Document Management
Customers may request documents like Proof of Deliveries (PODs), original Bill of Ladings (BOLs), or other shipment-related documentation. Shipping software enables shippers to host these documents for easy retrieval and cloud-based storage.
Reporting and Data
Shipping software consolidates your data in one location, facilitating report exports and data analysis. Platforms like ViewPoint can seamlessly integrate with Microsoft Power BI, offering a unified view of data across Microsoft Products. Customized dashboards empower shippers to generate personalized reports and efficiently manage data reporting.
Partnering with a Third Party Logistics Partner
Advanced shipping software encompasses carrier management services, freight invoice auditing, and freight claim services. While these extended services may necessitate higher-end software, they are crucial investments for shippers.
3PLs like TLI give shippers access to capable shipping software. TLI includes ViewPoint TMS in every program at no separate charge. TLI has invested in industry-leading technology, providing a user-friendly TMS System called ViewPoint. Tailored for shippers, ViewPoint seamlessly integrates with other leading software solutions.
