Quick Overview
- 1#1: Rose Rocket - Cloud-based TMS tailored for freight brokers to streamline dispatching, accounting, and customer management.
- 2#2: McLeod Software - Comprehensive TMS for brokers offering advanced load planning, rating engines, and integrated accounting.
- 3#3: DAT Broker TMS - Integrated TMS with access to the largest load board for efficient load sourcing and broker operations.
- 4#4: Truckstop TMS - All-in-one broker platform combining load board, factoring, safety checks, and TMS functionality.
- 5#5: Axon Software - End-to-end freight brokerage software unifying quoting, operations, EDI, and financials.
- 6#6: Aljex - Broker-specific TMS with CRM, order management, EDI integration, and built-in accounting.
- 7#7: Tai Software - Modern cloud TMS for brokers featuring automation, mobile apps, and seamless carrier management.
- 8#8: 3GTMS - Multi-modal TMS for brokers and 3PLs with route optimization, analytics, and real-time visibility.
- 9#9: MercuryGate - Enterprise-grade TMS providing brokers with global visibility, optimization, and execution tools.
- 10#10: Loadsmart - Digital TMS platform for brokers enabling instant booking, predictive pricing, and automated execution.
We curated this list by prioritizing tools with robust core features, reliable performance, intuitive design, and strong value, ensuring each entry meets the needs of modern freight brokers.
Comparison Table
Explore a breakdown of top TMS broker software tools, including Rose Rocket, McLeod Software, DAT Broker TMS, Truckstop TMS, Axon Software, and more, to gain clarity on their key features and capabilities, aiding in informed decisions for your operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rose Rocket Cloud-based TMS tailored for freight brokers to streamline dispatching, accounting, and customer management. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | McLeod Software Comprehensive TMS for brokers offering advanced load planning, rating engines, and integrated accounting. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | DAT Broker TMS Integrated TMS with access to the largest load board for efficient load sourcing and broker operations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Truckstop TMS All-in-one broker platform combining load board, factoring, safety checks, and TMS functionality. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Axon Software End-to-end freight brokerage software unifying quoting, operations, EDI, and financials. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Aljex Broker-specific TMS with CRM, order management, EDI integration, and built-in accounting. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Tai Software Modern cloud TMS for brokers featuring automation, mobile apps, and seamless carrier management. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | 3GTMS Multi-modal TMS for brokers and 3PLs with route optimization, analytics, and real-time visibility. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | MercuryGate Enterprise-grade TMS providing brokers with global visibility, optimization, and execution tools. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 10 | Loadsmart Digital TMS platform for brokers enabling instant booking, predictive pricing, and automated execution. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.2/10 |
Cloud-based TMS tailored for freight brokers to streamline dispatching, accounting, and customer management.
Comprehensive TMS for brokers offering advanced load planning, rating engines, and integrated accounting.
Integrated TMS with access to the largest load board for efficient load sourcing and broker operations.
All-in-one broker platform combining load board, factoring, safety checks, and TMS functionality.
End-to-end freight brokerage software unifying quoting, operations, EDI, and financials.
Broker-specific TMS with CRM, order management, EDI integration, and built-in accounting.
Modern cloud TMS for brokers featuring automation, mobile apps, and seamless carrier management.
Multi-modal TMS for brokers and 3PLs with route optimization, analytics, and real-time visibility.
Enterprise-grade TMS providing brokers with global visibility, optimization, and execution tools.
Digital TMS platform for brokers enabling instant booking, predictive pricing, and automated execution.
Rose Rocket
specializedCloud-based TMS tailored for freight brokers to streamline dispatching, accounting, and customer management.
Broker-specific margin management and automated buy/sell rate optimization integrated across the entire workflow
Rose Rocket is a cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) specifically designed for freight brokers and 3PLs, providing end-to-end management of logistics operations. It handles everything from lead capture and quoting through dispatching, real-time tracking, carrier management, invoicing, and integrated accounting. The platform's broker-focused tools enable efficient scaling, margin optimization, and automation of repetitive tasks in a single, intuitive interface.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform covering CRM, operations, dispatch, and accounting
- Advanced automation for quoting, EDI integrations, and margin tracking tailored for brokers
- Robust mobile app and real-time visibility for loads and carriers
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller brokers starting out
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization features
- Limited out-of-the-box reporting flexibility without add-ons
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise freight brokers and 3PLs seeking a scalable, broker-specific TMS to streamline full operations and maximize profitability.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on users and volume, typically starting at $300-$500 per user/month with enterprise tiers available.
McLeod Software
enterpriseComprehensive TMS for brokers offering advanced load planning, rating engines, and integrated accounting.
Fully integrated brokerage operations with native accounting and back-office automation in a single platform
McLeod Software's PowerBroker is a comprehensive TMS tailored for freight brokers, managing the full lifecycle of shipments from quoting and booking to tracking, invoicing, and settlement. It excels in carrier relationship management, load optimization, and EDI integrations with thousands of partners. The platform supports multi-modal operations and includes built-in accounting for streamlined financials.
Pros
- Extensive feature set including advanced quoting, dispatch, and analytics
- Robust EDI and carrier network integrations
- Scalable for high-volume brokers with strong security and compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complexity
- High implementation and customization costs
- Less intuitive interface for new users compared to cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Established mid-to-large freight brokers handling complex, high-volume operations that require integrated TMS and accounting.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $50,000+ annually depending on users and modules, with implementation fees.
DAT Broker TMS
specializedIntegrated TMS with access to the largest load board for efficient load sourcing and broker operations.
Unmatched integration with DAT's massive load board and real-time freight market rate tools
DAT Broker TMS from dat.com is a robust transportation management system tailored for freight brokers, integrating seamlessly with the industry's largest load board for real-time load matching and truck availability. It offers tools for dispatching, carrier management, rate negotiation, EDI integrations, invoicing, and analytics to optimize brokerage operations. The platform leverages DAT's extensive market data to provide actionable insights on rates, trends, and capacity, helping brokers make informed decisions quickly.
Pros
- Access to the largest North American load board with millions of daily postings
- Real-time rate analytics and market intelligence for competitive pricing
- Strong EDI and back-office automation for efficient invoicing and settlements
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to feature density
- Higher pricing compared to some entry-level TMS options
- Limited mobile app functionality for on-the-go dispatching
Best For
Mid-to-large freight brokers handling high-volume dry van, flatbed, or reefer loads who prioritize market data and load board integration.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$399/month for core Broker TMS, with add-ons for advanced analytics and API access; custom enterprise pricing available.
Truckstop TMS
specializedAll-in-one broker platform combining load board, factoring, safety checks, and TMS functionality.
Seamless integration with Truckstop's industry-leading load board for instant truck and load matching
Truckstop TMS is a robust transportation management system designed specifically for freight brokers, integrating seamlessly with the Truckstop load board for load posting, carrier sourcing, and booking. It provides end-to-end tools for managing shipments, including carrier vetting, compliance checks, invoicing, and payments. The platform emphasizes efficiency in broker operations by automating workflows and offering real-time visibility into loads and trucks.
Pros
- Deep integration with a massive load board for quick load matching
- Comprehensive carrier compliance and vetting tools
- Integrated accounting, payments, and quick pay options
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to feature density
- Pricing can be high for smaller brokers
- Occasional reports of UI glitches and slower support response
Best For
Mid-to-large freight brokers with high load volumes seeking integrated load board and carrier management.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $500/month for basic plans, scaling to $2,000+ for enterprise with volume-based add-ons.
Axon Software
enterpriseEnd-to-end freight brokerage software unifying quoting, operations, EDI, and financials.
Fully integrated front- and back-office modules that combine dispatch, CRM, and accounting without third-party tools
Axon Software is a cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) tailored for freight brokers and 3PLs, handling end-to-end operations from load posting and carrier matching to dispatch, billing, and accounting. It features CRM tools, EDI integrations, real-time tracking, and customizable reporting to optimize brokerage workflows. With over 20 years in the industry, Axon emphasizes reliability and scalability for growing brokerages.
Pros
- Integrated accounting and TMS in one platform reduces software silos
- Robust carrier management and EDI capabilities for efficient operations
- Customizable dashboards and reporting for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Dated user interface requires some adaptation
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
- Pricing lacks transparency and may be steep for small brokers
Best For
Mid-sized freight brokers seeking a reliable all-in-one TMS with strong back-office accounting integration.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $100-200 per user/month depending on volume and features.
Aljex
specializedBroker-specific TMS with CRM, order management, EDI integration, and built-in accounting.
Fully integrated broker accounting system that automates invoicing, AR/AP, and QuickBooks syncing
Aljex is a cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) specifically designed for freight brokers and 3PLs, offering end-to-end tools for load management, carrier sourcing, dispatch, and billing. It integrates CRM, EDI communications, accounting, and reporting to streamline brokerage operations from quote to payment. With strong load board integrations and compliance features, Aljex supports efficient scaling for growing brokerages.
Pros
- Robust EDI and load board integrations for seamless carrier communication
- Comprehensive accounting and billing modules tailored for brokers
- Strong reporting and compliance tools for operational efficiency
Cons
- Dated user interface that may feel clunky compared to modern competitors
- Higher pricing suitable more for mid-sized operations
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Mid-sized freight brokers needing a reliable, broker-focused TMS with deep EDI and accounting integrations.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing, typically $150-$300 per user/month depending on volume and features, with add-ons for advanced integrations.
Tai Software
specializedModern cloud TMS for brokers featuring automation, mobile apps, and seamless carrier management.
Seamless broker-specific workflow automation that combines CRM, operations, and back-office accounting in one platform
Tai Software (tai.com) is a cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) specifically designed for freight brokers, providing tools for load management, carrier sourcing, customer relationship management (CRM), dispatching, and integrated accounting. It streamlines brokerage operations by automating workflows like quoting, booking, tracking, and invoicing, with built-in EDI capabilities and reporting dashboards. Ideal for small to mid-sized brokers, it emphasizes ease of use and quick deployment without sacrificing core functionality.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal learning curve
- Integrated CRM and accounting reduce need for multiple tools
- Responsive customer support and fast onboarding (often under 30 days)
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and AI-driven insights
- Fewer native integrations with load boards and ELDs compared to top competitors
- Scalability limitations for brokers handling over 1,000 loads/month
Best For
Small to mid-sized freight brokers who prioritize ease of use and affordability over enterprise-level customization.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $99/user/month for basic plans, with custom quotes for advanced features and enterprise scaling (billed annually).
3GTMS
enterpriseMulti-modal TMS for brokers and 3PLs with route optimization, analytics, and real-time visibility.
Patented continuous optimization engine that dynamically adjusts plans in real-time for cost savings and efficiency
3GTMS is a robust cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) tailored for brokers, shippers, and carriers, focusing on end-to-end logistics optimization, execution, and visibility. It supports multi-modal transportation planning, real-time tracking, rate management, and carrier procurement through its integrated marketplace. The platform excels in handling complex brokerage operations with advanced analytics and automated workflows to streamline load matching and tendering.
Pros
- Advanced optimization engine for dynamic planning and routing
- Integrated carrier marketplace with real-time bidding and performance analytics
- Comprehensive multi-modal support and seamless execution tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to feature depth
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller brokers
- Occasional reports of integration challenges with legacy systems
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise brokers managing high-volume, multi-modal freight with a need for sophisticated optimization and carrier management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually based on shipment volume, users, and modules.
MercuryGate
enterpriseEnterprise-grade TMS providing brokers with global visibility, optimization, and execution tools.
AI-driven Market Rate Search for instant benchmarking and competitive rate insights across carriers
MercuryGate is a cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) tailored for shippers, 3PLs, and freight brokers, enabling end-to-end visibility and control over transportation operations. It supports multi-modal freight including truckload, LTL, intermodal, ocean, and air, with tools for load planning, carrier management, automated tendering, and execution. For brokers, it excels in rate negotiation, capacity sourcing, and performance analytics to optimize profitability and efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-modal support and advanced optimization tools
- Robust EDI integrations and real-time visibility
- Powerful analytics for carrier performance and margin tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Customization requires professional services
- Pricing can be premium for smaller brokers
Best For
Mid-to-large freight brokers handling high-volume, multi-modal shipments who need scalable analytics and automation.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually depending on volume, users, and modules.
Loadsmart
specializedDigital TMS platform for brokers enabling instant booking, predictive pricing, and automated execution.
SpotQuote AI engine for real-time, market-accurate freight pricing
Loadsmart is an AI-powered digital freight platform designed for brokers, shippers, and carriers, offering TMS functionalities like automated load matching, instant pricing, and booking. It streamlines brokerage operations by using machine learning to predict rates, optimize routes, and provide real-time tracking and analytics. The platform Embed integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, reducing manual intervention in freight management.
Pros
- AI-driven SpotQuote for instant, accurate pricing
- Seamless load booking and real-time tracking
- Robust analytics for margin optimization
Cons
- Pricing model lacks transparency and can be volume-dependent
- Limited customization for complex broker workflows
- Fewer integrations than top TMS competitors
Best For
Mid-sized brokers seeking AI automation for load matching and pricing without a full enterprise overhaul.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on transaction volume; typically 1-3% per load or subscription tiers starting around $500/month.
Conclusion
When comparing these top-tier TMS broker tools, Rose Rocket stands out as the leading choice, excelling in streamlining dispatching, accounting, and customer management. McLeod Software offers strong competition with advanced load planning and integrated accounting, while DAT Broker TMS impresses with its robust load board access, making it a top alternative for specific needs. Each tool caters to distinct operational priorities, ensuring there’s a standout option for nearly every brokerage setup.
Begin your journey by trying Rose Rocket—its focused design can transform your daily operations, but don’t overlook McLeod or DAT if their unique strengths align better with your workflow.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
