eLogii Blog | Delivery and Field Service Management Blog

7 Best Apps for Delivery Dispatchers

Written by eLogii | Jul 31, 2024 12:54:20 PM

Modern transportation companies need full visibility of their shipments. They seek instant communication with drivers and real-time updates for customers. 

Logistics businesses use truck dispatch software to automate basic tasks, save money, and improve customer satisfaction.

In this post:

Logistics Automation Market Size

In 2023, the global logistics automation market was worth $65.25 billion. By 2033, it is expected to grow to around $217.26 billion. This yearly growth rate of 12.8% highlights the increasing demand for supply chain digitalization.

Logistics Automation with Truck Dispatch Software

Truck dispatch software gives businesses the flexibility and strength to handle changes in the logistics landscape. Digital logistics solutions help supply chains deal with disruptions and challenges. It does so by improving shipment tracking and adjusting routes using automatically collected data.

With payroll integrations, safety compliance features, and digitized paperwork, logistics software makes workflows more efficient and cuts costs.

eLogii

At eLogii, we have enjoyed transforming logistics processes for many businesses worldwide. Our leading route optimization software and driver app offer seamless navigation, efficient deliveries, and reduced fuel costs.

Let's look into the key features of top truck dispatching software to help you make an informed decision for your growth!

Trucking Business Software: Custom vs. Ready-Made

Custom truck dispatch software is made to fit your specific business needs. Off-the-shelf options might not have all the features you need. Custom software for trucking companies integrates smoothly with your existing systems and processes, boosting efficiency and productivity.

Unlike pre-made solutions, custom logistics software can grow with your business, meeting your needs as they change. While custom software development costs more upfront, the long-term benefits of optimized functionality and performance are worth the investment.

Advantages of Custom Software for Trucking Companies

Supply chain and logistics companies opt for tailored truck dispatch software to enjoy these advantages:

Personalization. Custom software provides tailored visuals and functions. For example, you can combine different trucking tools into a single, comprehensive solution for managing your supply chain. This helps improve efficiency for carriers, drivers, and dispatchers with features designed just for you.

Flexibility. Custom solutions grow with your business and adapt to changes. This scalability means you can add new functions like fleet management, expand your team, and integrate smoothly with other systems. This way, companies can cut costs while enhancing their core operations.

Transparency. Custom trucking dispatch software gives you full visibility and control over shipments with real-time tracking and automatic updates. You can also boost transparency and customer satisfaction by adding features like in-app communication and AI-based routing.

Key Features and Solutions to Look for in Trucking Dispatch Software

Smart logistics providers select advanced software tailored to their specific needs. To tackle common challenges in logistics, most trucking dispatching software should include:

  • Real-time tracking and automatic load updates
  • Data-driven route planning and scheduling
  • Management of fuel, fleet, and assets
  • Integration with other dispatch programs and transportation management systems (TMS)
  • Scalability for growing businesses
  • Automated paperwork processing
  • Mobile compatibility

Some off-the-shelf options offer limited customization for technical integrations and workflow settings. However, if you need a system that fits your web assets and includes the features you want, custom software is the way to go.

Top 7 Truck Dispatch App Options for 2024

ProTransport

Founded in 2005, ProTransport provides an all-in-one trucking software with a strong dispatching system. It's a solid choice for freight brokers and truckload/LTL carriers.

Although some users think its interface looks a bit old-fashioned, it integrates smoothly with accounting programs and trucker fuel cards.

Pros of ProTransport:

  • Real-time dispatching
  • Full accounting features
  • Maintenance and safety tools
  • Analytics and GPS data
  • Smooth transactions
  • Paperless operations
  • Helpful customer support

Cons of ProTransport:

  • No option to attach photos for maintenance records
  • Interface feels a bit outdated
  • Restricted capability to attach credit card statements for financial accounting
  • Financial info not all in one place

Axon Software

Overview: Axon Software, established in 1982, is a highly experienced player in the software industry. It offers strong integrations, including various mapping tools. The solution includes a separate truck dispatch app that enhances process efficiency, provides custom reports, and helps with data-driven risk management.

Pros of Axon Software:

  • Mobile app for employees
  • Real-time tracking of trucks, speed, and more
  • Customizable reports
  • Insights for improving operations

Cons of Axon Software:

  • Steeper learning curve
  • More expensive than other systems
  • Tax features are limited and complex

Truckbase

Overview: Truckbase makes dispatch and back-office tasks easier for small to mid-sized carriers. It’s an affordable and automated system that streamlines load management, invoicing, and settlements, helping drivers work more efficiently.

Pros of Truckbase:

  • Mobile-friendly dispatch website
  • AI-based document importer
  • Quick driver alerts
  • Easy invoicing
  • Flexible payment options

Cons of Truckbase:

  • Limited options for customizing workflows
  • Doesn’t work with some trucking software
  • Not suitable for large enterprises

Trimble

Overview: Trimble's software is designed for various trucking companies, including 3PL providers and brokers. It features a strong process optimization engine that handles many aspects of supply management.

Pros of Trimble:

  • Easy safety tracking
  • Automated dispatch features
  • Simple to use interface
  • Data-driven driver tracking and route planning

Cons of Trimble:

  • System delays
  • Difficult to use functions

TruckingOffice

Overview: TruckingOffice offers affordable dispatch software tailored for small trucking companies. It’s ideal for solo users managing supply chain accounting. With limited collaboration features, it's best for owner-operators working with a few brokers or shippers.

Pros of TruckingOffice:

  • Quick customer support
  • Help center with forums and online guides
  • Budget-friendly
  • Simplifies tax management

Cons of TruckingOffice:

  • No live chat for customer support
  • Limited features for growing businesses

ITS Dispatch

Overview: ITS Dispatch is an affordable dispatch software designed for small trucking companies. It's a good fit for small fleets but might not be suitable for growing businesses. It’s ideal for those who don’t need advanced features like driver apps, live tracking, or mobile scanning.

Pros of ITS Dispatch:

  • Automated reporting
  • Unlimited trucks included in the plan
  • Easy customer agreement creation and sending
  • Effective driver communication tools

Cons of ITS Dispatch:

  • Occasional glitches and delays
  • Limited features for larger trucking companies

Samsara

Overview: Samsara provides complete dispatch hardware and software solutions for trucking companies of all sizes. Their feature-packed software handles all aspects of logistics, including communication, fuel management, and inventory tracking.

Pros of Samsara:

  • Fleet management and route planning
  • Automatic delivery scheduling and tracking
  • Real-time vehicle diagnostics
  • Compliance with regulations

Cons of Samsara:

  • Sometimes experiences system bugs and errors
  • Can be slow after software updates

Final Thoughts

The supply chain market is always changing, so businesses need to stay ahead with their solutions. Automation helps transportation companies quickly adjust to industry shifts and adapt to new challenges.

A good automation system can improve operations and save money. However, the best trucking dispatch software is the one that meets your specific needs.