Download the Ultimate Logistics Management Comparison Chart

Choosing the right logistics platform can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options on the market. From traditional freight forwarders to cutting-edge Transport Management Software (TMS), the landscape offers diverse solutions with varying levels of automation, digital integration, and functionality.

To simplify your decision, we’ve created the Ultimate Logistics Management Comparison Chart that compares the capabilities of traditional freight forwarders, digital freight forwarders, delivery management platforms, and transport management systems (TMS).

Preview of the Ultimate Logistics Management Comparison Chart
Preview of the Ultimate Logistics Management Comparison Chart


Key Highlights of the Comparison Chart

1. Traditional Freight Forwarders: Legacy Solutions

Traditional freight forwarders rely heavily on manual processes like email-based communication for booking and tracking shipments. While they provide local support, they lack key features like:


Best For: Companies preferring a manual approach or dealing with highly specific, niche requirements.


2. Digital Freight Forwarders: Modernized Traditional Players

Platforms like E-Maersk, myDHL+, myDSV, and Flexport offer improved functionalities compared to traditional forwarders. They provide:

However, they fall short in areas like integration with ERP/e-commerce systems and warehouse scheduling capabilities. These platforms remain focused on their own carrier network, limiting flexibility.

Best For: Companies looking for a partial upgrade from traditional systems but tied to specific carrier networks.


3. Delivery Management Platforms: Shipping Simplified

Platforms like Shipmondo and nShift excel in label printing, e-commerce integration, and automating carrier connections. Key features include:

  • Carrier label printing
  • Integration with ERP and e-commerce platforms
  • Pick-and-pack capabilities
However, they lack support for broader freight modes (like air, ocean, and rail) and advanced features such as dock scheduling or cross-company shipment visibility.

Best For: E-commerce businesses and parcel-based shippers needing efficient label printing and last-mile carrier management.


4. Transport Management Systems (TMS): Full-Spectrum Solutions

TMS platforms like Cargoson, Descartes, and Transporeon offer the most comprehensive logistics management capabilities. They provide:

TMS stands out with the most flexibility, and enables businesses to handle different carriers and e-forwarders across global regions, with full cross-company shipment visibility.

Best For: Manufacturing, retail, and wholesale companies needing end-to-end logistics management with seamless digital integration.



Key Takeaways 

Why Traditional Freight Forwarders Are Falling Behind?

The limitations of email-based workflows make traditional freight forwarders inefficient for modern supply chain needs. Lack of automation, instant rates, and digital carrier integrations puts them at a significant disadvantage.

Is Digital Freight Forwarders and Delivery Management Platforms A Step Forward?

Platforms like  Flexport, Shipmondo, and nShift offer important improvements, but their focus is often limited to specific areas (like parcel management, sea freight management or single-mode freight).

Why TMS is The Ultimate Choice for Modern Logistics?

Transport management systems provide the broadest feature set, combining automation, digital integration, and multi-modal support. Whether it’s dock scheduling, cross-company visibility, supplier access and automation, or freedom to choose any carrier, TMS platforms are the most versatile and future-proof solutions.