Transportation management systems (TMSs) have come a long way since their inception in the 1960s. These powerful tools have revolutionized the way businesses manage and optimize their transportation operations, and have become an essential component of supply chain management. Here are some fun and obscure facts about TMSs that you may not have known:
#1
IBM developed the first TMS in the 1960s with the aim of optimizing logistics for their own internal operations. They utilized this early TMS to plan and execute transportation routes, keep tabs on vehicle location and status, and track inventory.
#2
The concept of the TMS was inspired by a popular computer game called “Transport Tycoon,” which was released in 1994. This game allowed players to manage and optimize transportation networks, and it is thought to have influenced the development of TMSs.
#3
TMSs are used in a wide range of industries, not just trucking and shipping. Today, TMSs are used in manufacturing, retail, and healthcare to optimize transportation and logistics operations.
#4
TMSs are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze transportation data and make predictions about future demand and trends. This enables businesses to respond quickly to changes in the market and improve their operations.
#5
Some TMSs use real-time GPS data to track the location and status of vehicles, allowing businesses to monitor and optimize their transportation operations in real-time. This improves the efficiency of the transportation process and reduces the risk of delays and other issues.
#6
TMSs play a critical role in compliance with regulations such as the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate. This mandate requires commercial vehicles to record their hours of service using an electronic device, and TMSs can help companies to meet these requirements.
#7
TMSs are now available as mobile apps, which allow drivers and dispatchers to access transportation information and communicate with each other while on the road. This improves efficiency and allows companies to respond quickly to any issues that may arise.
#8
TMSs are also helping to reduce the environmental impact of transportation operations by optimizing routes and reducing the number of empty miles driven by vehicles. This not only helps to reduce carbon emissions but also saves resources and reduces costs.
#9
TMSs can save companies money by reducing transportation costs, improving delivery times, and reducing the number of damaged or lost shipments. This can significantly improve the bottom line of a business.
#10
TMSs can even predict the weather and adjust the transportation schedule accordingly to avoid delays caused by bad weather. This improves efficiency and reduces the risk of disruptions to the transportation process.
Transportation management systems have come a long way since their inception and have become an essential tool for businesses. They help to manage and optimize all types of transportation operations. With the continued advancements in technology, TMSs will only become more sophisticated. They can provide even more benefits to businesses in the future.
Looking to implement a transportation management system for your business? Get started with HITCH and schedule a demo today!
