Drayage is a crucial component of the supply chain — the hub for all other spokes — and refers to the transportation of goods over short distances, such as between ports and warehouses or distribution centers. As a critical link in the broader supply chain process, getting drayage right is essential Issues that occur within drayage, such as delays or damages to freight, have a ripple effect across the rest of the supply chain.
As such, efficient drayage operations are critical for businesses to maintain a competitive edge. In this post, we will explore how drayage software is transforming the modern supply chain and optimizing efficiency, the benefits of a Transportation Management System (TMS), and essential features of a TMS for drayage.
Drayage in the modern supply chain
Unprecedented innovation and investment in today's transportation and shipping industry has led to significant changes in drayage operations over the last decade. Today’s drayage carriers are more tech-forward and customer-focused than in the past.
In addition, the sector as a whole has become a greater focus for supply chain professionals, thanks to drayage’s elevated role since the pandemic. The dynamic, high-volume shipping industry presents challenges in efficiently managing drayage operations and the movement of containers. Issues like a lack of real-time visibility and seamless communication with drivers and customers are top of mind for drayage carriers.
They also face macro concerns including regulatory compliance, labor concerns, and ongoing drayage expenses. This is where drayage software plays a pivotal role.
What is drayage software?
Drayage software, a specialized type of transportation management software (TMS), is designed to help carriers manage drayage operations - from dispatch to finance - effectively. These solutions enable users to semi-automate dispatching, track equipment compliance, and generate real-time reports for shippers, brokers, and BCOs for better decision-making, among other things. By automating various aspects of drayage management, businesses can optimize their operations and gain a competitive edge, becoming their customers' carrier of choice in a competitive environment.
Who uses drayage TMS?
A wide variety of businesses use a transportation management system as part of their operations, but drayage software is used by drayage carriers. Additionally, this includes freight forwarders, logistics service providers, shippers, and intermodal carriers as well. For real-world examples, check out PortPro's client success stories and case studies.
The benefits of a Transportation Management System
Traditional systems-for managing drayage operations have limitations, making it difficult for businesses to scale and adapt to changing market conditions and added freight volumes. Many drayage carriers operate without any management system at all, instead relying on outdated tools like spreadsheets and emails. TMS provides several benefits, including increased efficiency, cost savings, and improved visibility into the entire supply chain. It allows the carrier to do more with less, remain profitable in all markets, and grow with the purchase of goods.
Essential functions of a TMS for drayage
When evaluating and selecting TMS software, businesses should consider the following features:
Dispatch
Effective dispatch capabilities allow for streamlined assignment and tracking of shipments as well as driver satisfaction. This feature ensures timely deliveries and reduces manual intervention, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Customer management
A comprehensive customer management module helps maintain a centralized database of customer information. This enables drayage carriers tostreamline communication and foster long-lasting relationships through custom reports, real-time updates, and digital load tendering.
Equipment & compliance
Efficient equipment and compliance management enable businesses to track and monitor equipment usage and maintenance, ensuring regulatory compliance and minimizing costly downtime.
Automated reporting
Automated reporting provides real-time data and insights into drayage operations, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and optimize their processes. With TMS, carriers can keep customers up to date with live links, status and event tracking, and a customer branded portal tailored to their favorite customers.
The PortPro approach
PortPro offers a unique value proposition with its drayOS platform, providing key functionality and features that support the operational benefits discussed above. With a focus on automation, visibility, and efficiency, PortPro is revolutionizing the way businesses manage their drayage operations.
