If freight shipping plays a crucial role in your logistics strategy, you’re likely aware of the daily challenges that come with it. From securing competitive rates and tracking shipments to handling freight claims, managing it all can be overwhelming for many businesses.

While some companies rely on spreadsheets, manual record-keeping, or multiple platforms to get by, these methods can quickly become costly, time-consuming, and error-prone. If your freight processes are getting out of hand, it might be time to consider a transportation management system (TMS) to simplify and streamline your shipping operations.

A TMS platform is a powerful software solution that can help you gain control over your freight shipments and significantly ease the complexities of less than truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL) shipping. Here are four ways a freight TMS can add value to your business:

TMS Shipping Benefit 1: Boost Operational Efficiency

A TMS reduces manual tasks and minimizes time spent searching for information, freeing up your team to focus on growing your business. Here’s what you can do with a freight TMS:

• Automate documents, like bills of lading and shipping labels.
• Maintain a centralized address book for quick access to frequent senders and receivers.
• Save and easily retrieve freight quotes for faster shipment processing.
• Manage quotes and load tendering across all freight shipping modes.
• Use control tower planning for streamlined operations and higher visibility.
• Track pickups and deliveries in real time with notifications.

TMS Shipping Benefit 2: Gain a Comprehensive View of Your Logistics

Rather than having your shipping information scattered across platforms, a freight TMS centralizes all aspects of your shipping process. With a TMS, you can:

• Customize tracking from a single portal for a clear overview of your logistics.
• Access shipment history across multiple carriers, sorting by delivery status, carrier, and more.
• View origin and destination details alongside carrier rates to fully understand each shipment’s journey.

TMS Shipping Benefit 3: Optimize Costs

Freight rates and carrier availability fluctuate frequently, often with additional fees or surcharges. A centralized platform like a TMS can help you uncover cost-saving opportunities and manage extra fees effectively. With a freight TMS, you can:

• Compare rates and transit times from multiple carriers more conveniently.
• View rates that include insurance costs as well as carriers’ general limits of liability for uninsured shipments, so you don’t pay for more insurance than you need.
• Review past invoices in detail so you can evaluate expenses and identify ways to lower freight shipping costs in the future.

TMS Shipping Benefit 4: Enhance Your Shipping with a 3PL Partner

You can use a standalone TMS or collaborate with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider to leverage their expertise and resources. Choosing a TMS through a 3PL offers additional benefits, including:

• Built-in relationships: Working with a 3PL that has established carrier connections can offer you priority services and streamlined operations.
• Expert guidance: 3PLs provide industry insights and best practices, helping you get the most from your TMS from the start.
• Cost efficiency: 3PLs often secure volume discounts through their carrier relationships, passing those savings on to you.
• Simplified management: A 3PL’s TMS relieves your team from managing technical maintenance, allowing you to focus on your core operations.

Ready to simplify your freight shipping? Connect with Match Freight Lines!

With over 30 years of success in the logistics industry, Match Freight Lines supports thousands of shippers by providing leading freight management solutions. Our TMS platform makes shipping easier, helping your business succeed with advanced technology and industry expertise.

Let Match Freight Lines help you take control of your freight shipping. Contact us for a free consultation today!