TMS RFP Template for Things to Consider

What To Consider In Your TMS RFP Template

Transportation management systems (TMS) have been on the market for years. But some shippers have chosen not to implement one, for a variety of reasons. Yet they also come to a point where a TMS becomes more relevant to their business. In other cases, an existing TMS simply cannot handle the demands of e-commerce, global shipping, and other complex moves. That’s where switching providers or kickstarting a using a TMS RFP template process can begin.

Choosing the right TMS has become increasingly critical for any transportation operation to function efficiently. Whether this is the first implementation or an upgrade for an existing system, the challenge lies in factors to consider when making the right choice for your unique business requirements.

Ensuring the TMS RFP meets the shipper’s business needs remains the most critical aspect of the selection process. Asking the right questions eases any barriers during the TMS selection and implementation process. Preparation and education are essential to make that informed choice.

Top challenges in a TMS RFP

In many cases, shippers can unintentionally overlook implementation and change management issues that can be as relevant as selecting the TMS itself.
Communication between all parties at the beginning stages of the RFP is sometimes overlooked, which can be detrimental to the whole process. Correctly tracking project milestones and controlling the dissemination of information can mitigate these challenges.

Not asking the right TMS RFP questions can leave shippers on the wrong end of an informed choice. For instance, can the TMS handle international, multiple modes, including last-mile delivery management? Typically, it’s not enough to simply handle a single shipping mode or just enable e-commerce.

More than just the basics need to be explored at the very beginning of the TMS RFP. Naming the shipper’s priorities, selecting program features, and integrating with other existing operational systems should be at the top of the list.

Why a Technology Partner Is Critical to Promoting a Faster RFP

Shippers don’t have to decide on how to formulate the most effective RFP strategy on their own. Even if that partner is a one of the potential TMS vendors, having a partner is a valuable asset, and it is also a form of insurance that the right choice is made for their operation.
The right partner works directly with the shipper to ensure the company fully benefits from all features of the chosen TMS. The right TMS increases the value of a shipping operation’s assets and works hard to assist in that fatter bottom line. It will also be reflected in the creation of an effective carrier scorecard.

Top Considerations When Going Through the TMS RFP

Asking the right TMS RFP questions was referenced above, but there are other things to consider when crafting the perfect RFP for your TMS or any other system. 

Much like the RFP process for onboarding a new carrier, it is essential to consider all aspects of the business, says John Hancock of Inbound Logistics

“This process will involve several different parties—and ensuring everyone is aligned on your objectives will help manage time, resources, and expectations. Questions to ask your team include:

With that in mind, it’s beneficial to have a few tips to power through the RFP successfully. These include:

Bolster Your Strategic Position With Help From Your TMS Implementation Team

When the time comes to craft the perfect TMS RFP for any sized shipping operation, the key to a speedy implementation lies in choosing a real partner and solution that will streamline all onboarding, training, development, and ongoing maintenance of the system. 

MercuryGate will ensure all the right questions are asked, and all challenges are overcome, so the shipper or logistics service provider makes the best decision for the right TMS.

Contact us today to get started with a free demo

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