Industry economists are predicting a gradual market rebound in 2024. The road to recovery will be bumpy, if not perilous. Imagine the devastating impact of losing a top customer and trying to replace a big chunk of revenue in today’s market, which is oversaturated with capacity.

Technology investments in today’s challenging freight market should focus on the customer experience. Technology that makes it easier for customers to do business with you will stand up as a bulwark against competitors circling your 18-wheelers with lower rates.

How can you empower your staff and drivers to meet and exceed customer expectations? This article explores the transformative power of using a modern, cloud-based transportation management system (TMS) to elevate the customer experience with unparalleled connectivity and visibility.

Why Connectivity Matters in Trucking

Shippers crave simplicity in their carrier and freight broker relationships. Doing business with companies that create extra work and errors is a losing strategy, even if they offer lower rates. 

Trucking and logistics companies that leverage modern technology can automate routine communications and be their customers’ “Easy Button” in a crowded market. A robust TMS is the centerpiece of a connected application ecosystem by ensuring real-time visibility and support.

TMS platforms must combine data from multiple systems and simplify processes for internal users and external clients to deliver operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

The value of a TMS is accentuated in challenging market conditions by helping companies increase their staying power with customers. Below are three ways a modern TMS can help carriers accomplish this critical task. 

1. 1. Communication and Connection: A modern, cloud-based TMS that integrates with third-party technologies quickly can provide an automated flow of accurate, real-time data. Using Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and other connectivity solutions, a TMS can update customer systems, eliminating manual touch points and improving the quality and speed of communications for greater supply chain visibility.

   2. Structured Workflows: Besides handling back-office functions, a modern TMS gives drivers a structured mobile workflow that helps companies quickly assimilate unique customer needs to ensure high-quality, consistent service.

   3. Business Intelligence: TMS platforms that offer business intelligence capabilities give users the power to quickly access insights to make better decisions and proactively manage exceptions. The Magnus TMS, for instance, has built-in business intelligence tools that empower users at all levels to make strategic decisions that impact customer satisfaction and profitability.

Embracing Connectivity for Customer-Centric Success

Using technology to create better connections with customers that enhance the value of your services is no longer a luxury but a strategic imperative. Carriers using digital solutions can significantly improve the customer experience, building a competitive advantage to retain top shippers and reach profitability goals. 

Magnus Technologies offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that empower trucking companies to meet customer demands while maximizing efficiency, productivity, and cost savings. According to a Gartner study, companies that switch to a modern TMS can accrue up to 15% in annual savings by enhancing equipment utilization, making routing more intelligent, and streamlining workflows.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg. The Magnus Platform does this while helping companies enhance their customer experience through:

Seamless Integration with EDI and APIs: The Magnus TMS platform facilitates seamless customer communication through EDI transactions and direct API integrations. These integrations allow instant responses to customer communications, providing real-time information and increasing supply chain visibility.

Mobile Driver App for Enhanced Efficiency: The integrated Magnus Driver App drives operational efficiency by automating load-tracking updates while enabling custom workflows tailored to customer needs. The app helps companies deliver on-time, error-free service by empowering drivers with real-time information.

Single-Screen Load Planning Functionality: The Magnus TMS platform will soon have a game-changing load planning screen to make proactive decisions. Intuitive tools and visualizations will help trucking companies anticipate and address freight network challenges and deliver exceptional customer service.

The Magnus Platform simplifies asset, driver, and freight management, accelerates the order-to-cash cycle of freight transactions, and augments your ability to provide best-in-class customer service. Contact us today to learn more and to get your personalized demo. See how a modern, SaaS-based TMS can work for you.