For growing carriers, having efficient truck dispatch software is essential for managing fleets, optimizing operations, and winning more high-paying loads (especially for dedicated lanes). Depending on your size, growth trajectory, and focus, you will want to carefully vet the right provider for you – not all software is created equal, and different providers have different strengths. In this article, we will explore the top five truck dispatch software providers for 2023, taking into account their feature sets, target customers, and overall performance.

Truckbase: Intuitive and modern cloud-based software for the 5-50 truck fleet

Truckbase (www.truckbase.com) stands out as an intuitive and easy-to-use dispatch software designed for both dispatchers and drivers. Ideal for asset-based carriers with 5-50 drivers, Truckbase offers a more professional and reliable system, built with modern tech that will impress brokers. Truckbase makes the most sense once you have multiple users in the system who need to collaborate, such as having at least one dispatcher and an office manager.

Truckbase’s software revolves around three core feature sets: dispatching, invoicing, and settlements. It is mobile-friendly, decreases data entry with AI, and is extremely easy to use. Their intuitive driver-friendly dispatch is where they stand out, which makes them a great fit for fleets focused on usability for drivers. Unlike more enterprise software options, their software requires very little training. However, with new pro features such as live vehicle tracking, EDI & ELD integrations, and customer portals, Truckbase can help small carriers win more loads and contracts with shippers and brokers who require such capabilities.

Additionally, as a nimble and rapidly growing player built on modern technology, their team prides themselves on highly responsive customer support. Their customer-centric development process results in fast updates and improvements that set them apart from legacy players who move at a slower pace. For the growing small-to-mid size fleet, Truckbase is your answer.

McLeod: Highly customizable and feature-rich for the largest fleets

Dating back to 1992, McLeod (www.mcleodsoftware.com) boasts a 30+ year history and offers the most robust TMS software on the market. Name a feature, and they probably have it. Its highly customizable nature allows fleets to tailor the software to their specific needs. However, extensive customization comes with a cost – far longer and more involved implementation process, with correspondingly high prices. McLeod is best suited for larger fleets with 100+ trucks that are prepared to treat their software selection process as a real investment. While their software may feel slightly dated, it remains a top choice for mega carriers due to its comprehensive feature set and high level of customization.

TruckingOffice: Low-cost solution for owner operators

TruckingOffice (www.truckingoffice.com) caters to owner operators and small fleets with 1-5 trucks. It is an affordable option with limited functionality, making it suitable for record keeping at home but less ideal for dispatch because it lacks driver functionality. The software is best for a single user, such as one owner who manages both dispatching and accounting, as collaboration features are limited. TruckingOffice is also a good option for owner operators that only work with a handful of brokers or shippers, as they do not offer a load board. Last, if users are willing to invest the time in weekly data entry, it offers good detailed cost tracking and reporting capabilities.

ITS Dispatch: Ideal for small fleets with a brokerage

Similar to TruckingOffice, ITS Dispatch (https://truckstop.com/product/tms/) targets small operators with 1-5 trucks. If you have a brokerage arm, ITS Dispatch offers an advantage over TruckingOffice as it includes a module specifically designed for brokerages, as well as some load board functionality. While ITS Dispatch serves its purpose well for the smallest fleets, it may not meet the needs of fleets looking to grow or those requiring more advanced collaboration features like driver apps, live tracking, or mobile scanning.

Google Sheets: The free and basic option

For those just getting started or with limited budgets, Google Sheets can serve as a basic dispatch solution. As a free option, it is best suited for tech-savvy users who can build custom TMS functionality within the spreadsheet framework. However, Google Sheets has limitations in terms of collaboration and lacks the advanced features offered by dedicated dispatch software providers.

Conclusion

The choice of dispatch software depends on various factors such as fleet size, budget, and desired functionality. For growing asset-based carriers with 5-50 trucks looking for a modern cloud-based software solution, Truckbase is a top-tier option. McLeod offers an extensive feature set for the largest fleets but requires a far more involved implementation process. Trucking Office, ITS Dispatch, and Google Sheets cater to owner operators and smaller fleets with varying levels of functionality and limitations for those looking for free or low cost options. Consider your unique business type and requirements to select the dispatch software provider that best suits your trucking operation in 2023.

 

Truckbase is an intuitive TMS software for FTL fleets with 5+ trucks that accelerates billing and automates repetitive tasks. It has everything from dispatch to invoicing to driver pay.