Quick Overview
- 1#1: Transporeon - Digital platform for freight tendering, carrier sourcing, and transportation procurement optimization.
- 2#2: Keelvar - AI-driven procurement optimization software specializing in complex transportation RFPs and bid analysis.
- 3#3: Freightos - Online freight marketplace enabling instant quoting, booking, and procurement of ocean, air, and trucking services.
- 4#4: Trimble Outpost - Freight procurement platform for matching loads with carriers, managing bids, and securing capacity.
- 5#5: MercuryGate - Cloud-based TMS with advanced rate management, carrier procurement, and transportation execution tools.
- 6#6: Loadsmart - AI-powered digital freight platform for spot bidding, contract procurement, and truckload optimization.
- 7#7: Uber Freight - Tech-enabled freight network for procuring truckload capacity with real-time pricing and booking.
- 8#8: SAP Transportation Management - Integrated TMS module for carrier selection, rate negotiation, and end-to-end transportation procurement.
- 9#9: Oracle Transportation Management - Comprehensive cloud TMS supporting transportation procurement, planning, and carrier performance management.
- 10#10: Blue Yonder Transportation Management - Supply chain platform with transportation procurement features for rate shopping and multimodal execution.
Tools were selected and ranked based on feature richness, user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring alignment with diverse procurement needs across transportation modes and business sizes.
Comparison Table
Transportation procurement software streamlines supply chain operations, and tools like Transporeon, Keelvar, Freightos, Trimble Outpost, and MercuryGate each bring distinct strengths. This comparison table clarifies their core features, integration capabilities, and optimal use cases to help users select the right fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Transporeon Digital platform for freight tendering, carrier sourcing, and transportation procurement optimization. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Keelvar AI-driven procurement optimization software specializing in complex transportation RFPs and bid analysis. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 3 | Freightos Online freight marketplace enabling instant quoting, booking, and procurement of ocean, air, and trucking services. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Trimble Outpost Freight procurement platform for matching loads with carriers, managing bids, and securing capacity. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | MercuryGate Cloud-based TMS with advanced rate management, carrier procurement, and transportation execution tools. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Loadsmart AI-powered digital freight platform for spot bidding, contract procurement, and truckload optimization. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Uber Freight Tech-enabled freight network for procuring truckload capacity with real-time pricing and booking. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | SAP Transportation Management Integrated TMS module for carrier selection, rate negotiation, and end-to-end transportation procurement. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Oracle Transportation Management Comprehensive cloud TMS supporting transportation procurement, planning, and carrier performance management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | Blue Yonder Transportation Management Supply chain platform with transportation procurement features for rate shopping and multimodal execution. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
Digital platform for freight tendering, carrier sourcing, and transportation procurement optimization.
AI-driven procurement optimization software specializing in complex transportation RFPs and bid analysis.
Online freight marketplace enabling instant quoting, booking, and procurement of ocean, air, and trucking services.
Freight procurement platform for matching loads with carriers, managing bids, and securing capacity.
Cloud-based TMS with advanced rate management, carrier procurement, and transportation execution tools.
AI-powered digital freight platform for spot bidding, contract procurement, and truckload optimization.
Tech-enabled freight network for procuring truckload capacity with real-time pricing and booking.
Integrated TMS module for carrier selection, rate negotiation, and end-to-end transportation procurement.
Comprehensive cloud TMS supporting transportation procurement, planning, and carrier performance management.
Supply chain platform with transportation procurement features for rate shopping and multimodal execution.
Transporeon
enterpriseDigital platform for freight tendering, carrier sourcing, and transportation procurement optimization.
Its independent Freight Marketplace with over 90,000 carriers, enabling real-time spot tenders and dynamic pricing unmatched in scale
Transporeon is a comprehensive Transportation Procurement Software platform designed to optimize freight sourcing, tendering, and carrier management for shippers. It provides tools for eAuctions, RFQs, rate negotiations, and spot market access through its vast carrier network of over 90,000 partners. The software integrates predictive analytics, benchmarking, and sustainability tracking to drive cost savings and efficiency in global supply chains.
Pros
- Massive global carrier network for competitive bidding and spot tenders
- Advanced automation with eAuctions, predictive tendering, and rate benchmarking
- Robust analytics, sustainability metrics, and seamless ERP/TMS integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup for new users
- Enterprise-level pricing inaccessible for small to mid-sized businesses
- Limited customization without professional services support
Best For
Large enterprise shippers with high-volume, international freight procurement needs seeking maximum cost optimization.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at €10,000+ per month based on volume, modules, and users.
Keelvar
specializedAI-driven procurement optimization software specializing in complex transportation RFPs and bid analysis.
Package Optimization Engine using column generation to solve million-variable problems for optimal carrier awards across lanes and modes
Keelvar is an AI-driven procurement optimization platform designed specifically for transportation and logistics sourcing. It automates complex RFPs, e-auctions, and bid evaluations by using advanced mathematical optimization to award packages that maximize savings while adhering to constraints like geography, volume, service levels, and carrier diversification. The software supports multimodal procurement, including truckload, LTL, ocean, air, and rail, delivering actionable insights through scenario modeling and real-time decision support.
Pros
- Superior optimization algorithms for complex package awards and lane bundling
- Handles massive bid datasets with thousands of carriers and scenarios
- Proven savings of 5-15% on transportation spend with strong ROI tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users due to advanced optimization setup
- Enterprise-focused pricing may not suit small shippers
- Limited native TMS integration compared to full-suite platforms
Best For
Large enterprises and 3PLs managing high-volume, multi-modal transportation RFPs seeking maximum cost optimization.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically subscription-based starting at $50K+ annually depending on procurement volume and events; quote required.
Freightos
enterpriseOnline freight marketplace enabling instant quoting, booking, and procurement of ocean, air, and trucking services.
Real-time global freight marketplace with instant quotes from multiple carriers
Freightos is a digital freight marketplace and procurement platform that enables shippers to instantly compare and book ocean, air, and trucking rates from over 80 carriers worldwide. It streamlines transportation procurement through RFQ tools, rate benchmarking via the Freightos Baltic Index, and end-to-end booking with tracking and payments. The platform provides analytics and negotiation support to optimize logistics costs and decision-making for international shipping.
Pros
- Instant quotes and comparisons from 80+ global carriers
- Comprehensive rate indices and analytics for benchmarking
- Seamless booking, tracking, and payment integration
Cons
- Limited focus on domestic trucking compared to international
- Pricing opaque and enterprise-focused with custom quotes
- Steeper learning curve for advanced RFQ and analytics tools
Best For
Mid-to-large importers and exporters seeking transparent, real-time international freight procurement and booking.
Pricing
Freemium model with free basic rate searches; premium/enterprise plans are custom-quoted, typically starting at $500+/month based on volume and features.
Trimble Outpost
specializedFreight procurement platform for matching loads with carriers, managing bids, and securing capacity.
Real-time HOS and compliance monitoring that automates carrier qualification during procurement.
Trimble Outpost is a cloud-based transportation management platform that supports procurement processes by ensuring compliance, safety, and operational efficiency for fleets and carriers. It offers tools like Hours of Service (HOS) logging, DVIR inspections, and real-time messaging to verify and manage procured transportation services effectively. While strong in regulatory compliance, it integrates with broader Trimble ecosystems for enhanced visibility in carrier selection and performance tracking.
Pros
- Excellent compliance and HOS tracking for reliable carrier procurement
- Strong mobile app for drivers and dispatchers
- Seamless integration with Trimble's telematics and ELD hardware
Cons
- Limited native bidding and RFP management tools
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Pricing can be premium for smaller operations
Best For
Mid-sized transportation firms and fleet managers needing robust compliance alongside basic procurement oversight.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $25-60 per vehicle/month depending on features and fleet size; custom quotes required.
MercuryGate
enterpriseCloud-based TMS with advanced rate management, carrier procurement, and transportation execution tools.
Integrated MercuryGate Marketplace for instant carrier sourcing and dynamic bidding
MercuryGate is a cloud-based Transportation Management System (TMS) specializing in transportation procurement, enabling efficient carrier sourcing, RFP management, rate negotiation, and bid optimization. It supports multi-modal shipping across truckload, LTL, intermodal, ocean, and air, with tools for execution, tracking, and settlement. The platform leverages analytics and automation to drive cost savings and improve supply chain visibility for enterprises.
Pros
- Robust RFP and carrier bidding automation with marketplace integration
- Advanced analytics and real-time optimization for cost reduction
- Scalable multi-modal support and strong API integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High cost may not suit small to mid-sized businesses
- Customization and implementation can be lengthy
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises and 3PLs needing comprehensive transportation procurement and TMS capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually depending on modules, volume, and users.
Loadsmart
specializedAI-powered digital freight platform for spot bidding, contract procurement, and truckload optimization.
Loadsmart IQ, the AI-powered pricing engine delivering real-time, accurate market rates.
Loadsmart is an AI-powered digital freight platform specializing in transportation procurement for truckload shipments, allowing shippers to instantly access competitive rates, book capacity, and manage execution. It leverages proprietary technology like Loadsmart IQ to provide market intelligence, automate tendering, and optimize carrier matching. The platform offers end-to-end visibility from booking to delivery, streamlining procurement for efficiency and cost savings.
Pros
- AI-driven instant pricing and booking
- Real-time tracking and analytics
- Proven cost reductions for shippers
Cons
- Primarily focused on North American truckload
- Limited multimodal support
- Occasional integration challenges
Best For
Mid-sized shippers with high-volume truckload needs looking to automate procurement and gain market insights.
Pricing
Free for shippers; platform earns through carrier transaction fees and marketplace margins.
Uber Freight
enterpriseTech-enabled freight network for procuring truckload capacity with real-time pricing and booking.
AI-powered predictive pricing and capacity forecasting engine
Uber Freight is a digital freight brokerage platform that connects shippers with a vast network of carriers for truckload transportation procurement. It streamlines the process with instant quoting, automated tendering, real-time tracking, and analytics for optimizing rates and capacity. Leveraging Uber's machine learning technology, it offers spot market bidding, contract management, and end-to-end visibility to reduce manual efforts in freight sourcing.
Pros
- Extensive carrier network with real-time capacity matching
- Seamless mobile app for quick booking and tracking
- Data-driven pricing and analytics for cost optimization
Cons
- Primarily focused on truckload with limited LTL support
- Custom enterprise pricing lacks transparency
- Less suitable for highly complex multi-modal procurement
Best For
Mid-market shippers looking for a tech-enabled digital brokerage marketplace for efficient truckload freight procurement.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on volume; typically 5-15% commission per load or subscription tiers starting at $500/month for enterprise features.
SAP Transportation Management
enterpriseIntegrated TMS module for carrier selection, rate negotiation, and end-to-end transportation procurement.
AI-driven real-time tendering and carrier selection with embedded rate benchmarking
SAP Transportation Management (TM) is an enterprise-grade solution designed to optimize transportation procurement, planning, execution, and settlement processes. It supports strategic carrier sourcing, automated tendering, contract management, and freight rate optimization to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Integrated within the SAP ecosystem, it provides real-time visibility and analytics for global supply chains.
Pros
- Advanced tendering and carrier management for efficient procurement
- Powerful optimization algorithms for cost savings and route planning
- Seamless integration with SAP ERP and S/4HANA for unified operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- High upfront and ongoing costs
- Less intuitive interface compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global transportation networks already invested in the SAP ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $100,000+ annually based on users, transactions, and modules.
Oracle Transportation Management
enterpriseComprehensive cloud TMS supporting transportation procurement, planning, and carrier performance management.
Agent-based planning engine that automates intelligent tendering and dynamic carrier selection for optimal procurement outcomes
Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) is a robust, enterprise-grade transportation management system (TMS) that streamlines transportation planning, execution, and settlement across all modes of transport. For transportation procurement, it provides advanced tools for carrier sourcing, RFP management, rate negotiations, automated tendering, and contract lifecycle management. Integrated with Oracle's broader supply chain suite, OTM delivers real-time visibility, optimization, and analytics to reduce costs and improve efficiency in complex logistics networks.
Pros
- Comprehensive procurement capabilities including automated RFPs, eAuctions, and carrier performance tracking
- AI-powered optimization for rate shopping and multi-modal planning
- Seamless integration with Oracle ERP and SCM modules for end-to-end visibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring extensive training
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines (often 6-12 months)
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and may not suit smaller operations
Best For
Large global enterprises with complex supply chains needing an integrated, scalable TMS for procurement and execution.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing; typically starts at $500K+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment scale (contact Oracle for quote).
Blue Yonder Transportation Management
enterpriseSupply chain platform with transportation procurement features for rate shopping and multimodal execution.
AI-powered True Source procurement engine for automated, market-benchmarked carrier bidding and rate optimization
Blue Yonder Transportation Management is a robust enterprise-grade TMS that streamlines transportation procurement through automated carrier sourcing, bid management, rate negotiation, and contract optimization. It leverages AI and machine learning for intelligent rate shopping, performance benchmarking, and tendering processes to minimize costs and improve efficiency. Integrated with broader supply chain solutions, it supports global operations for shippers handling high-volume, complex logistics networks.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven optimization for carrier selection and rate benchmarking
- Seamless integration with ERP, WMS, and other Blue Yonder modules
- Comprehensive analytics for supplier performance and cost savings
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation for non-enterprise users
- High cost with lengthy customization timelines
- Overkill for small to mid-sized operations focused solely on procurement
Best For
Large enterprises with global, high-volume supply chains requiring integrated TMS procurement capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically $100,000+ annually based on modules, users, and scale, with SaaS subscription model.
Conclusion
The reviewed transportation procurement tools offer diverse solutions, with Transporeon leading as the top choice, excelling in end-to-end procurement optimization. Keelvar stands out as a strong alternative for complex RFP and bid analysis, while Freightos impresses with its seamless marketplace for multi-modal services, catering to varied needs.
Explore Transporeon to streamline freight tendering, source carriers efficiently, and enhance procurement performance—taking your transportation operations to the next level.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
