Quick Overview
- 1#1: MercuryGate - Cloud-based TMS platform specializing in LTL rate shopping, carrier selection, booking, and real-time tracking.
- 2#2: 3GTMS - Comprehensive TMS for LTL shipments with advanced optimization, EDI integration, and multi-modal support.
- 3#3: Oracle Transportation Management - Enterprise TMS offering robust LTL planning, execution, freight payment, and global carrier connectivity.
- 4#4: SAP Transportation Management - Integrated TMS for LTL freight management with ERP synchronization, rate management, and analytics.
- 5#5: Manhattan Active Transportation Management - Scalable platform for LTL order management, routing optimization, and carrier performance tracking.
- 6#6: Blue Yonder Transportation Management - AI-driven TMS enhancing LTL efficiency through predictive planning and dynamic carrier bidding.
- 7#7: Descartes Transportation Management - Logistics suite providing LTL rating engines, route optimization, and compliance tools.
- 8#8: Tai Software - Broker-focused TMS with LTL quoting, load building, and automated dispatch capabilities.
- 9#9: Rose Rocket - All-in-one LTL brokerage software for shipment lifecycle management and customer portals.
- 10#10: Aljex - Brokerage TMS featuring LTL rating, EDI, and accounting integration for freight operations.
Tools were ranked by their LTL-specific features, integration capabilities, user-friendliness, and value, balancing functionality and practicality for diverse industry needs
Comparison Table
LTL shipping software is vital for streamlining freight operations, and selecting the right tool demands careful evaluation. This comparison table examines key features, functionality, and ideal use cases of leading options such as MercuryGate, 3GTMS, Oracle Transportation Management, SAP Transportation Management, Manhattan Active Transportation Management, and additional tools. Readers will gain insights to identify the best fit for their logistics needs, whether prioritizing efficiency, integration, or scalability.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MercuryGate Cloud-based TMS platform specializing in LTL rate shopping, carrier selection, booking, and real-time tracking. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | 3GTMS Comprehensive TMS for LTL shipments with advanced optimization, EDI integration, and multi-modal support. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Oracle Transportation Management Enterprise TMS offering robust LTL planning, execution, freight payment, and global carrier connectivity. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | SAP Transportation Management Integrated TMS for LTL freight management with ERP synchronization, rate management, and analytics. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | Manhattan Active Transportation Management Scalable platform for LTL order management, routing optimization, and carrier performance tracking. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Blue Yonder Transportation Management AI-driven TMS enhancing LTL efficiency through predictive planning and dynamic carrier bidding. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Descartes Transportation Management Logistics suite providing LTL rating engines, route optimization, and compliance tools. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Tai Software Broker-focused TMS with LTL quoting, load building, and automated dispatch capabilities. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Rose Rocket All-in-one LTL brokerage software for shipment lifecycle management and customer portals. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Aljex Brokerage TMS featuring LTL rating, EDI, and accounting integration for freight operations. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Cloud-based TMS platform specializing in LTL rate shopping, carrier selection, booking, and real-time tracking.
Comprehensive TMS for LTL shipments with advanced optimization, EDI integration, and multi-modal support.
Enterprise TMS offering robust LTL planning, execution, freight payment, and global carrier connectivity.
Integrated TMS for LTL freight management with ERP synchronization, rate management, and analytics.
Scalable platform for LTL order management, routing optimization, and carrier performance tracking.
AI-driven TMS enhancing LTL efficiency through predictive planning and dynamic carrier bidding.
Logistics suite providing LTL rating engines, route optimization, and compliance tools.
Broker-focused TMS with LTL quoting, load building, and automated dispatch capabilities.
All-in-one LTL brokerage software for shipment lifecycle management and customer portals.
Brokerage TMS featuring LTL rating, EDI, and accounting integration for freight operations.
MercuryGate
enterpriseCloud-based TMS platform specializing in LTL rate shopping, carrier selection, booking, and real-time tracking.
AI-driven dynamic rate shopping and automated LTL tendering for instant carrier bidding and selection
MercuryGate is a cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) renowned for its robust LTL shipping capabilities, offering end-to-end management from rate shopping to delivery tracking. It excels in multi-modal optimization, real-time visibility, and seamless integration with major LTL carriers like Old Dominion, Estes, and SAIA. The platform automates tendering, load planning, and compliance, making it ideal for high-volume shippers seeking efficiency and cost savings.
Pros
- Comprehensive LTL rate shopping and optimization across 100+ carriers
- Real-time shipment visibility with proactive alerts and analytics
- Scalable automation for high-volume operations with EDI and API integrations
Cons
- Initial setup and customization can require professional services
- Pricing is enterprise-focused, less ideal for very small shippers
- Advanced features have a moderate learning curve despite intuitive UI
Best For
Large enterprises and mid-market shippers with complex, high-volume LTL needs requiring advanced optimization and carrier management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for mid-tier plans, scaling with shipment volume and features.
3GTMS
enterpriseComprehensive TMS for LTL shipments with advanced optimization, EDI integration, and multi-modal support.
AI-driven Dynamic Rate Engine for automated, real-time LTL rate comparisons and carrier awards
3GTMS is a comprehensive cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) specializing in multi-modal freight management, with robust LTL shipping capabilities including automated quoting, rating, and booking. It optimizes LTL shipments through real-time carrier rate shopping across hundreds of providers, load consolidation, and execution workflows. The platform offers end-to-end visibility, EDI integrations, and analytics to drive cost savings and operational efficiency for shippers.
Pros
- Extensive LTL carrier network with real-time rate shopping from 500+ providers
- Advanced optimization tools for consolidation and routing
- Seamless EDI integrations and real-time tracking visibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth
- Enterprise-level pricing excludes small shippers
- Lengthy implementation process for full customization
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with high-volume LTL operations needing scalable optimization and carrier management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; typically $50,000+ annually depending on volume, users, and modules.
Oracle Transportation Management
enterpriseEnterprise TMS offering robust LTL planning, execution, freight payment, and global carrier connectivity.
AI-powered multi-leg LTL planning and dynamic carrier bidding for optimal consolidation and savings
Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) is a robust, enterprise-grade transportation management system (TMS) designed to optimize planning, execution, and settlement for all freight modes, with strong LTL shipping capabilities including rate shopping, load consolidation, and carrier management. It leverages AI-driven optimization and real-time visibility to minimize costs and improve efficiency in LTL operations. OTM integrates deeply with Oracle's supply chain suite and ERP systems, supporting complex global logistics networks.
Pros
- Advanced LTL rate shopping and optimization algorithms for cost savings
- Seamless integration with Oracle ERP and other enterprise systems
- Comprehensive analytics and real-time visibility across global operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring significant IT resources
- High upfront and ongoing costs unsuitable for small businesses
- Customization can be time-intensive and expensive
Best For
Large enterprises with high-volume, multi-modal LTL shipping needs and existing Oracle infrastructure seeking scalable, integrated TMS solutions.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for mid-tier deployments, scaling with users, transactions, and modules.
SAP Transportation Management
enterpriseIntegrated TMS for LTL freight management with ERP synchronization, rate management, and analytics.
AI-powered freight optimization engine that dynamically consolidates LTL shipments across carriers for cost savings and efficiency
SAP Transportation Management (TM) is an enterprise-grade transportation management system (TMS) that optimizes end-to-end logistics processes, including planning, execution, and settlement for various transport modes. For LTL shipping, it excels in carrier rate shopping, load consolidation, freight optimization, and tendering to multiple carriers. Integrated with SAP's broader ecosystem, it provides real-time visibility and analytics to streamline LTL operations at scale.
Pros
- Advanced LTL optimization and rate management with AI-driven planning
- Seamless integration with SAP ERP and S/4HANA for unified data
- Comprehensive analytics and reporting for global LTL operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex configuration
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Overkill for small to mid-sized businesses focused solely on LTL
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, high-volume LTL shipping needs integrated into a broader SAP supply chain ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically $100,000+ annually based on modules, users, and volume, plus implementation fees.
Manhattan Active Transportation Management
enterpriseScalable platform for LTL order management, routing optimization, and carrier performance tracking.
AI-powered dynamic LTL rate negotiation and optimization engine that continuously learns from shipment data
Manhattan Active Transportation Management is a cloud-native transportation management system (TMS) from Manhattan Associates, specializing in end-to-end optimization for multimodal shipping, with robust LTL capabilities including rate shopping, carrier selection, and execution. It leverages AI and machine learning for dynamic load optimization, real-time visibility, and predictive analytics tailored to LTL shipments. The platform excels in handling complex carrier networks and EDI integrations, making it suitable for high-volume LTL operations.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven LTL rate shopping and carrier optimization for cost savings
- Seamless EDI integration with major LTL carriers for efficient execution
- Real-time shipment visibility and analytics for proactive decision-making
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- High implementation costs and timeline for full deployment
- Better suited for enterprises, less ideal for small-scale LTL shippers
Best For
Large enterprises or 3PLs with high-volume, complex LTL shipping networks needing scalable optimization and carrier management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $100K+ annually based on volume, users, and modules; subscription model with implementation fees.
Blue Yonder Transportation Management
enterpriseAI-driven TMS enhancing LTL efficiency through predictive planning and dynamic carrier bidding.
AI-driven Dynamic Orchestration engine for continuous, real-time adjustment of LTL plans and execution
Blue Yonder Transportation Management is an enterprise-grade TMS platform that optimizes end-to-end transportation operations, with strong support for LTL shipping through advanced rating, load optimization, and carrier management. It leverages AI and machine learning for dynamic planning, execution, tendering, and freight settlement across multi-modal networks. The solution provides real-time visibility, predictive analytics, and seamless integration with supply chain systems to reduce costs and improve service levels for high-volume shippers.
Pros
- Comprehensive LTL optimization including multi-stop load building and carrier rate shopping
- AI-powered real-time execution and predictive ETAs
- Robust integrations with ERPs, WMS, and other supply chain tools
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant IT resources and time
- High enterprise-level pricing not suitable for SMBs
- Steep learning curve for end-users despite modern UI
Best For
Large enterprises and 3PLs managing complex, high-volume LTL and multi-modal freight operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically $100,000+ annually based on modules, users, and scale.
Descartes Transportation Management
enterpriseLogistics suite providing LTL rating engines, route optimization, and compliance tools.
Dynamic LTL rate shopping across 500+ carriers with automated negotiation and compliance checking
Descartes Transportation Management is a robust TMS platform specializing in LTL shipping, offering end-to-end capabilities from rate shopping and load optimization to execution, tracking, and settlement. It integrates deeply with major LTL carriers like Old Dominion, Estes, and FedEx Freight via EDI and APIs for seamless tendering and compliance. Designed for shippers, brokers, and 3PLs, it leverages AI-driven analytics to minimize costs and enhance visibility across domestic and international LTL operations.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 500+ LTL carriers for real-time rating and booking
- Advanced optimization tools for load consolidation and cost savings
- Comprehensive analytics and reporting for performance insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires significant user training
- High implementation time and costs for full deployment
- Less intuitive UI compared to more modern SaaS competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large shippers, brokers, and 3PLs handling high-volume, complex LTL shipments that require deep carrier integrations and analytics.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically starting at $20,000-$50,000 annually for base implementations, scaling with shipment volume and modules.
Tai Software
specializedBroker-focused TMS with LTL quoting, load building, and automated dispatch capabilities.
Advanced NMFC expert system for automated freight class determination and reclass appeals
Tai Software offers a specialized LTL shipping platform focused on real-time quoting, rating, and manifesting for less-than-truckload shipments. It integrates with major carriers like FedEx Freight, Old Dominion, and Saia, providing accurate NMFC classification and freight optimization tools. The solution supports API integrations for seamless workflow embedding in e-commerce or ERP systems, making it suitable for streamlining LTL logistics operations.
Pros
- Robust multi-carrier LTL rating engine with 20+ integrations
- Precise NMFC lookup and reclassification tools
- Strong API for custom integrations and automation
Cons
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited built-in analytics and reporting depth
- Pricing requires custom quotes, lacking transparency
Best For
Mid-sized shippers and 3PLs seeking reliable, carrier-agnostic LTL quoting without needing a full-scale TMS.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at $500/month based on shipment volume; contact sales for demo and quote.
Rose Rocket
specializedAll-in-one LTL brokerage software for shipment lifecycle management and customer portals.
Integrated operations-to-accounting workflow that automates invoicing and payments directly from LTL load data
Rose Rocket is a cloud-based transportation management system (TMS) designed for freight brokers, 3PLs, and carriers, with strong capabilities for LTL shipping including rate shopping, load optimization, and carrier management. It integrates dispatching, EDI communications, real-time tracking, billing, and CRM into a single platform to streamline LTL operations. While versatile for various freight types, it excels in automating LTL workflows for small to mid-sized operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one TMS with integrated accounting and CRM
- Robust EDI integrations and LTL rate shopping tools
- Real-time visibility and mobile app for drivers and dispatchers
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature-dense interface
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller operations
- Limited advanced LTL-specific analytics compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Mid-sized LTL freight brokers and 3PLs seeking an integrated platform for operations, sales, and financials without needing multiple tools.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $150-$300 per user/month depending on features and scale.
Aljex
specializedBrokerage TMS featuring LTL rating, EDI, and accounting integration for freight operations.
Integrated broker accounting system that automates invoicing, AR/AP, and carrier payments within the TMS workflow
Aljex is a comprehensive cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) tailored for freight brokers, 3PLs, and shippers, specializing in LTL and truckload shipping operations. It offers robust features like automated LTL rating and shopping across 500+ carriers, EDI integrations, load building, and order management. The platform also includes integrated accounting, customer portals, and advanced reporting for end-to-end visibility and efficiency.
Pros
- Extensive EDI integrations with major LTL carriers for seamless data exchange
- Built-in accounting and billing tools that streamline broker financials
- Scalable platform with strong reporting and analytics for operational insights
Cons
- Dated user interface that can feel clunky compared to modern TMS options
- Steep learning curve for new users without dedicated training
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small brokerages or low-volume shippers
Best For
Mid-sized freight brokers and 3PLs managing high volumes of LTL shipments who need integrated operations and back-office functionality.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $500-$2,000+ per month depending on user count, shipment volume, and modules selected.
Conclusion
The top LTL shipping software tools offer distinct strengths, with MercuryGate leading as the standout choice, excelling in cloud-based rate shopping, carrier selection, and real-time tracking. 3GTMS follows closely, impressing with advanced optimization and multi-modal support, while Oracle Transportation Management shines for enterprise-scale planning and global carrier connectivity, catering to larger operations. Together, these top three showcase the best options for diverse LTL needs, ensuring businesses can find their ideal solution.
Ready to elevate your LTL shipping? Start with MercuryGate to unlock seamless rate shopping, efficient carrier management, and real-time tracking—tailored to streamline your operations and boost productivity.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison