TMS

TMS shipping software : how to choose in 2025? Comparison and features

Published on 25 November, 2025

Last Updated 25 November, 2025

11 min

A TMS is a solution designed to plan, manage, execute and monitor transport operations. It offers a wide range of functionalities, from route optimization to customer contract management and continuous tracking of goods.

Today's logistics world is evolving at high speed, with transport costs rising considerably and customers demanding ever greater speed and transparency. In this context, managing transport with Excel spreadsheets or manual processes becomes a real obstacle to performance. This is where a TMS (Transport Management System) comes in. Much more than a simple management tool, a TMS optimizes, automates and transforms transport management into a genuine strategic asset.

👉 How does a TMS work? Why has it become indispensable? What are the best software packages available, and how do you make the right choice? We explain it all in this comprehensive guide.

Comparison: the 10 TMS in 2025 on the market to watch

Here is an overview based on available information.

TMS	Freight modes	Rates	Ease of use	Ideal for	More
Akanea	Multimodal	Pricing modulated according to the number of users, chosen features and SaaS or license mode.	⭐⭐⭐ Intuitive and customizable	Companies with customs issues	Intuitive, customizable interface
Transporeon	Route	On request (from $1000 / month depending on SelectHub)	⭐⭐⭐ Efficient interface	Large companies with complex logistics needs	Broad ecosystem of specialized modules
Shiptify	Multimodal	On request, varies according to the number of TOs, but everything else is included (unlimited number of users, modules, no set-up fees etc...)	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very intuitive	All company sizes	- Simple yet powerful interface - 1-hour set-up time - Responsive support - Connected with over 10,000 carriers
DDS Logistics	Multimodal	Offers several packages, with prices varying according to functionality and level of automation. The cost also depends on the number of users and modules chosen.	⭐⭐⭐ Functional interface	Medium to large-sized companies	Expertise in multimodal transport
Alpega Group	Multimodal	Operates on a transactional model, where cost depends on volume and can be borne either solely by the shipper, or shared with carriers	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Easy to learn	SMEs and large groups	Fully modular and scalable
MyTower	Multimodal	Modular solution whose price, available on quotation only, varies according to the modules chosen.	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Intuitive interface	Companies with complex customs management	All-in-one solution combining TMS and GRC (Global Regulatory Compliance)
Winddle	Multimodal	On request, T arif is "on demand", with costs depending on the modules chosen (transport management, shipment tracking, collaboration with suppliers, carbon footprint, etc.).	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Modern and fluid	Companies improving supplier collaboration	Highly collaborative, with fine-grained traceability and rapid partner onboarding
Acteos	Anything but airborne	Modular SaaS solution with "on-demand" pricing, varying according to the modules chosen (chartering, dedicated or mixed fleet, optimization, tracking, cost management, etc.).	⭐⭐⭐ Functional but dense	Industrial and distribution companies	For key accounts with high customization capacity
Andsoft	Multimodal	On request, pricing is by quotation and varies according to modules and customization chosen.	⭐⭐⭐ Flexible and customizable	Transport and logistics companies	100% web-based since 2000, ultra-flexible and customizable
Tesisquare	Multimodal	On quotation and depends on modules, number of logistics partners used, modes of transport and complexity of tracking & integration.	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Intuitive	Supply chain managers	Real-time multi-channel flow management

TMS functionalities

Here are just a few examples of what a TMS can do for you:

Route planning: adjust routes according to deadlines, capacities and special constraints.
Order automation: automatic creation of purchase orders and continuous monitoring of delivery stages.
Tracking and tracing: geolocation of shipments to anticipate and correct transport-related delays.
Multimodal management : management and optimization of flows across different modes of transport (road, sea, rail, air)for greater flexibility and efficiency.
Load optimization: optimal use of space to reduce transport costs.
Tariff and contract management: centralization and comparison of agreements with carriers.
Carbon footprint reduction: track and reduce CO2 emissions through accurate estimates and monitoring.
Billing control: rapid validation of discrepancies for optimized cost management.
Analysis and reporting: dashboards to monitor performance and identify opportunities for improvement in the transport field.

By combining these features, TMS software becomes a strategic partner for companies wishing to perfect their logistics processes, boost performance, maintain customer satisfaction and meet growing market demands.

According to a study by Management Transition, even partial optimization of logistics processes using a TMS can boost productivity by 25%.

For a detailed overview of TMS functionalities, take a look at Gartner's report on TMS technologies 2023.

Why has TMS software become essential?

Initially designed for large companies, the TMS has now become an invaluable ally for all organizations navigating a constantly evolving logistics market. Using a TMS can save between 5% and 10% of the transport budget (FAQ Logistique).Here are a few key trends that make the TMS an indispensable tool.

Exploding volumes, increasing complexity

With the rise of e-commerce and globalization, transport volumeshave really exploded. With all these new shipping methods and ever-changing rules, managing transport without a specialized tool is a bit like going forward blind. A TMS facilitates and automates operations, providing a clear, centralized overview of shipments.

Freewheeling transport costs

With the price of fuel rising, the cost of the last mile soaring, and the shortage of drivers complicating matters, it has become essential to optimize every journey and avoid unnecessary kilometers to maintain good margins. With TMS software, it becomes easier to reduce unnecessary expenditure by choosing the most advantageous routes and carriers.

Customers demanding greater speed and transparency

Fast delivery is no longer enough. Today, it's just as important to share information in real time, and to anticipate unforeseen events. A delay that goes unreported can undermine customer satisfaction. With a TMS, you can ensure accurate tracking and automatic updates for your customers, promising a smooth and seamless experience.

Towards greener transport

Today, companies are encouraged to measure and reduce their carbon footprint. With new regulations, city access restrictions and consumer expectations, it's time to opt for more environmentally-friendly solutions. A TMS makes it possible to optimize routes and select the most environmentally-friendly carriers, while monitoring the environmental impact of each shipment.

Digitalization at the heart of logistics

In the age of Big Data and artificial intelligence, relying on Excel files to manage shipments is a bit like using a paper map in the age of GPS! A TMS uses data to predict delays, optimize routes and make informed decisions in real time, ensuring more efficient logistics.

Our customer, PCM, talks about it better than we can in a short (but beautiful) video. 👇

5 concrete benefits of a TMS for your company

Adopting a TMS goes far beyond automating transport management. It's a strategic tool that has a positive impact on your overall supply chain management. If we had to choose just 5 advantages,they would be the following.

1. Lower transport costs and greater profitability

Transport is one of the biggest items of expenditure for companies. Every poorly optimized journey can lead to unnecessary costs: administrative overload, empty mileage, inappropriate choice of carriers... A TMS finds you the best options in real time to reduce these costs.

Route optimization to avoid unnecessary detours.
Automatic comparison of carriers to select the most advantageous.
Improved truck load factor to reduce cost per unit.

The result? Up to 20-30% savings on transport costs!

2. Total visibility and continuous shipment tracking

Managing shipments without a TMS can leave you wondering: where are the goods? Is there a delay? Without a rapid response, the risks of misunderstandings, unhappy customers and financial losses can really increase. With a TMS:

Continuous tracking of every shipment on a single platform.
Predict delays with automatic notifications.
Improved communication with customers and carriers.

Theresult? Fewer surprises, more control, and even happier customers.

3. Automate repetitive tasks and save time

Managing your transport manually can really waste a lot of time on unproductive tasks: calls to carriers, invoice entry, reminders...A TMS automates these processes, freeing up time and boosting productivity.

Automatic creation of purchase orders and transport documents.
Digital invoicing to minimize errors and speed up payments.
Data centralization to avoid dispersal of information.

The result? Your teams save several hours every week, making logistics much smoother.

4. Reduced carbon footprint and more sustainable transport

Today, companies are seeking to reduce their impact on the environment to comply with regulations and meet customer expectations. The TMS helps make transport more environmentally friendly by optimizing routes and monitoring CO₂ emissions.

Reduction of unnecessary kilometers thanks to load optimization.
Automatic calculation of the carbon footprint for each shipment.
Selection of the most responsible carriers based on the emissions produced.

Theresult? Greener logistics and simplified compliance with new environmental regulations.

5. Better decision-making thanks to data and AI

The transport sector generates a considerable amount of data which, without an appropriate tool, often remains untapped. A TMS transforms this data into clear indicators, enabling you to optimize your logistics strategy and increase profitability.

Interactive dashboards to monitor costs, lead times and carrier performance.
Predict risks and delays using artificial intelligence.
Real-time strategy adjustments to increase efficiency.

The result? Faster, smarter and more profitable decisions.

Companies that have implemented a TMS report a 10-30% reduction in transport-related costs, thanks to better route planning and optimization.
Source : Info Industrie

How to choose the right TMS software?

Choosing a TMS is a bit like choosing a trusted partner for your business. It needs to meet your exact requirements and integrate seamlessly into your current processes. Here are a few essential tips to help you make the right choice.

Define your needs and your type of transport

To begin with, think about what you really want from a TMS:

Do you need to manage transport by road, sea, air or rail?
Do you want to optimize costs, track your shipments in real time, or manage multiple modes of transport?
Is your priority to collaborate with your carriers, reduce your carbon footprint, or automate your processes?

Tip: make a list of your priorities to avoid paying for superfluous features.

Check compatibility with your existing tools

A good TMS should integrate easily with your other systems (ERP, WMS, CRM, etc.).

Make sure it offers open APIs for simple integration.
Check that it can interact seamlessly with your partners and carriers.
Choose a cloud-based TMS to avoid complex installations and benefit from automatic updates.

Tip: a TMS that doesn't integrate well with your ecosystem can become an obstacle rather than an advantage.

Evaluate ergonomics and ease of use

A TMS can be extremely powerful, but if it's too complicated to use, your teams may not adopt it.

Evaluate the user interface: is it intuitive and easy to navigate?
Make sure the tool is easy to learn and use, and offers effective support.
Consult user feedback: many people abandon their TMS because of its complexity.

Tip: ask for a free demo and let your teams test the tool before making a decision.

Check strategic features

Not all TMSs offer the same functionalities, but here are those that are truly indispensable:

Continuous tracking and automatic alerts: crucial for preventing delays and managing unforeseen events.
Route and cost optimization: an efficient TMS should enable you to save money on transport.
Task automation: manage invoicing, documents and create transport orders.
Analysis and reporting: clear KPIs to manage your logistics performance.
Carbon footprint management: increasingly sought-after for tracking and reducing your CO₂ emissions.

Tip: don't pay for features you don't need! Instead, opt for a modular TMS that adapts to your needs.

Check ROI and impact on your budget

A TMS must quickly prove its profitability. It's not just a question of cost, but also of the savings it delivers.

What costs can it reduce (unnecessary kilometers, excessive administrative costs, invoicing errors, delays, etc.)?
How long will it take to pay for itself? (In general, a good TMS offers a return on investment in less than a year).
What type of pricing does it offer? Single license, SaaS subscription, cost per shipment?

💡 Tip: don't choose the cheapest TMS, but the one that will bring you the most value over the long term.

Choose a TMS with good support and guidance

It's one thing to have high-performance logistics software, but it's essential to benefit from quality support.

Make sure the software vendor offers rapid assistance in the event of a problem.
Check customer feedback: slow support means loss of efficiency.
Check that training is provided for your teams.

Tip: a TMS without good support can become a hindrance rather than an asset. Opt for a solution with responsive, efficient support.

Focus on Shiptify: the agile, collaborative TMS

In a market where TMS solutions are often complex and rigid, Shiptify stands out for its simplicity, speed of implementation and collaborative spirit. Whether you're a small business or a major corporation, our solution helps you manage your shipments seamlessly, without wasting time or spending a fortune.

1-hour installation: Plug-and-play, no technical intervention required.
Intuitive interface: rapid adoption by teams, even without technical expertise.
Optimized processes: time and cost savings thanks to efficient data centralization.
Real-time collaboration: simplified communication with all supply chain partners.
Total monitoring and control: multimodal management, continuous visibility and automation of repetitive tasks.

More than 50,000 logisticians rely on Shiptify to manage their logistics flows worldwide.

Conclusion

In the increasingly complex and demanding world of logistics, having a dedicated transportation management tool has become indispensable. Whether you're looking to cut costs, gain greater visibility, automate processes or reduce your carbon footprint, a TMS is your best ally for improving performance. Of all the options available, Shiptify stands out for its simplicity, rapid implementation and collaborative approach.