A Transport Management System (TMS) is a software solution that helps organisations efficiently manage their own fleet of delivery vehicles and drivers. It enables route planning, driver scheduling, vehicle tracking, compliance management, and performance monitoring. For businesses that operate their own logistics fleet, a TMS centralises and optimises daily transport operations to improve service levels, reduce costs, and boost fleet productivity.
Traditional freight management typically involves manual coordination, paper-based processes, or basic spreadsheets to manage vehicle dispatch, driver schedules, and deliveries. A TMS replaces these with a digital platform that offers real-time visibility, automation, and performance analytics. It differs from a Freight Management System (FMS), which is used to manage third-party carriers. When used together, a TMS and FMS provide a complete freight management solution for businesses that operate their own fleet and also engage external carriers like FedEx or Toll.
Small and mid-sized businesses with their own delivery vehicles can absolutely benefit from a TMS. Managing a fleet—no matter the size—requires oversight of routes, drivers, and compliance. A system like Cario’s TMS is scalable and cost-effective, helping smaller businesses improve delivery performance, reduce manual workload, and make data-driven decisions. It also integrates easily with an FMS for businesses using both in-house and third-party delivery options.
A good Freight Management System (FMS) provides multi-carrier quoting, booking automation, tracking, reporting, and carrier performance management—all in one platform. It simplifies working with third-party logistics providers and helps reduce freight costs through carrier comparisons and real-time data. When integrated with a TMS, like Cario’s combined solution, businesses gain full control over both internal fleet operations and external freight bookings, ensuring visibility and efficiency across the entire logistics process.
Not necessarily. A modern TMS is designed to complement and improve existing processes with minimal disruption. Solutions like Cario offer intuitive interfaces, streamlined onboarding, and expert support to help teams get up and running quickly. Whether used alone or alongside an FMS, a TMS enhances existing workflows by introducing automation, visibility, and better control—without the need for a full operational overhaul.
Yes. Both TMS and FMS solutions can integrate with existing systems such as ERP, WMS, and eCommerce platforms. Cario offers flexible API-based integration, ensuring seamless data flow between platforms. This allows businesses to automate order syncing, improve accuracy, and maintain consistency across their supply chain without disrupting existing infrastructure.
Because Cario Fleet is part of the Cario ecosystem, it’s the only TMS that can be fully integrated with our Cario Freight Management System (FMS).
This brings over 300 carriers, advanced freight management features, and last-mile delivery management into one end-to-end enterprise freight solution.